A termite inspection is essential for preventing or addressing infestations that could damage your home. Here's a breakdown of costs and other relevant details.
Average Costs
| Inspection Type | Average Cost |
|-------------------------------|--------------------------|
| Home Sale Inspection | $165 |
| Follow-Up Inspection | $75–$150 |
| Commercial Inspection | $200–$600 |
| Termite Clearance Letter | $100–$200 |
| Termite Bond Agreement | $500–$2,000 |
Factors Influencing Costs
- Inspection Purpose:
- Home sales: Required in many states and specific loans (e.g., VA or FHA).
- Follow-ups: Needed to verify if an infestation has been resolved.
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Commercial properties: Larger spaces require more time and effort.
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Loan Type for Home Sales:
- VA Loans: Seller typically pays ($50–$150).
- FHA Loans: Buyer typically pays ($100–$200).
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Standard Loans: Seller usually pays.
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Inspection Bundles: Combine termite inspections with other home inspections for $250–$400.
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Location: Termite prevalence is higher in warm, moist regions like Florida, increasing inspection and treatment needs.
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WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) Inspections: Broader than termite inspections, costing around $150.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
- Mud tubes along walls or foundations.
- Discarded wings near windows or doorways.
- Hollow-sounding or buckling wood.
- Bubbling paint or small drywall holes.
- Piles of sawdust-like droppings.
How to Prepare for an Inspection
- Clean the home exterior and trim vegetation.
- Clear clutter, especially near walls and under sinks.
- Provide access to crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
- Avoid excess moisture (e.g., no mopping or steamy showers).
- Gather previous termite inspection or treatment records.
What Happens During a Termite Inspection?
- Duration: 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Scope: Interior and exterior areas, including crawl spaces, attics, and wood piles.
- Inspection Tools: Probes for weak wood and visual checks for mud tubes or access points.
- Outcome: A report detailing findings and recommendations for treatment or preventive measures.
Termite Treatment Costs
- Average Cost: $600 for moderate infestations.
- Treatment Range: $230–$1,000.
- Fumigation: $1,500–$8,000 for severe infestations.
Pro Tips to Protect Your Home
- Annual Inspections: Especially crucial in warm, moist climates.
- Clear Access Points: Avoid wood-soil contact and seal cracks.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep wood dry and eliminate excess moisture.
- Proactive Treatments: Use baits or termiticides for prevention.
A timely inspection can save you thousands in repair costs by catching termite damage early. Be proactive!
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