Termite inspection: what to expect and how to find a pro

What an inspection should cover

The scope depends on the structure, but the provider should explain which interior, exterior, foundation, crawl-space, attic, or other accessible areas are included. The goal is to identify evidence and conditions relevant to wood-destroying insects, not to imply that hidden areas were seen.

Ask how findings are documented. A report may include photographs, diagrams, evidence descriptions, conducive conditions, and limitations. If no evidence is found, the report should still reflect access limitations rather than guaranteeing a structure is free of termites.

Inspection reports and real-estate requests

A general homeowner inspection, a treatment proposal, and a transaction-related wood-destroying-insect report can be different deliverables. State the purpose when scheduling and ask which form, recipients, timing, and re-inspection terms apply.

For a home purchase or loan, confirm current documentation requirements with the transaction professionals and relevant program. “VA” in a loan context refers to Veterans Affairs, not Virginia; do not confuse that process with a Virginia registry-city search.

How to compare inspection companies

Compare the same structures and report requirements. Ask about the business license, responsible inspector or applicator, access needs, fee, report delivery, and whether the visit creates any obligation to purchase treatment.

Our company selection checklist covers credentials and contract terms. Directory category evidence can help build a research list, but it does not prove that a provider offers a particular report or inspection format.

Inspection cost factors

Property size, access, number of structures, documentation, travel, scheduling, and whether the inspection is standalone can affect the charge. We do not assume that an inspection is free or publish an unsupported average.

Use the termite inspection cost checklist and keep treatment costs separate when comparing proposals.

Find local companies

Browse the termite control category for location links and explicit termite/WDO evidence. The Roanoke termite/WDO directory has a dedicated local list; other city pages preserve unknown specialties rather than guessing.

Before you authorize treatment

Review the findings and ask why the proposed method fits the structure. Make sure treatment areas, preparation, follow-up, monitoring, repairs, exclusions, and warranty terms are written down. An inspection is evidence gathering; a treatment contract is a separate decision.