Termite Inspection Services

Reviewed 2026-07-30

Detecting active termite infestation, past damage, and conditions conducive to termites before they cause structural damage.

Symptoms termite inspection solves

Mud tubes running along the foundation, walls, or crawl space piers
Wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or feels soft/crumbly
Discarded termite wings near windowsills or doors, especially in spring
Small holes in wood with dirt-like frass (droppings) nearby
Sagging floors, doors, or windows near ground-contact wood
Bubbling or peeling paint that resembles water damage but has no moisture source
Visible swarms of winged termites, particularly after rain in warm weather

When to book termite inspection

Before buying or selling a home — many mortgage lenders require a WDO (wood-destroying organism) report
Annually in regions with high termite pressure (much of the South and coastal areas)
After noticing mud tubes, discarded wings, or damaged wood
Before or after major landscaping changes that place mulch or wood in contact with the foundation

What happens during termite inspection

Inspector examines the foundation perimeter, crawl space, attic, and any wood-to-ground contact points
A probe or screwdriver is used to check suspect wood for softness or hollowness consistent with termite damage
Moisture meter readings help identify conditions conducive to termites, such as wood-soil contact and excess moisture
Evidence of subterranean mud tubes, drywood termite frass, or swarmer wings is documented with photos
A wood-destroying organism (WDO) report is completed, noting active infestation, past damage, and conducive conditions
If active termites are found, the inspector recommends treatment type and, if licensed to do so, provides a treatment quote

Termite Inspection methods and approaches

Visual inspection

The core of every termite inspection — examining accessible wood, foundation, and crawl space for mud tubes, damage, and swarmer evidence.

Moisture meter and probing

Using a moisture meter and awl/screwdriver to test suspect wood for the softness and elevated moisture levels associated with termite or fungal damage.

WDO report documentation

A standardized wood-destroying organism report, often required for real estate transactions, that documents findings, conducive conditions, and treatment history.

What drives termite inspection pricing

Standard termite inspection: $75–$150
WDO report for real estate transaction: $100–$200
Larger homes or those with crawl spaces and detached structures take longer and may cost more
Follow-up inspections after treatment: often included in a treatment warranty plan
Regional termite pressure — inspections are more commonly required and priced accordingly in high-risk states
Whether treatment is bundled with the inspection fee if active termites are found

See the full cost guide →

Questions to ask your licensed termite inspector (wdo inspector)

Are you a licensed WDO inspector in this state, and can I see your license number?
Will I receive a copy of the official wood-destroying organism report?
Did you find any active infestation, past damage, or conducive conditions?
If active termites are present, what treatment options do you recommend?
Do you have any financial relationship with a treatment company that could affect your findings?
How often should this property be re-inspected given its location and construction?

Termite Inspection safety and licensing

Termite damage is a structural issue, not just cosmetic — sagging floors or damaged support beams should be evaluated by a structural professional if extensive.
Avoid disturbing mud tubes before an inspection, since inspectors use them to assess whether an infestation is active.
Choose an inspector without a financial stake in the treatment recommendation to avoid a conflict of interest, similar to mold inspection best practice.

Termite Inspection questions homeowners ask

Is a termite inspection required to buy a house?

Many mortgage lenders, especially for VA loans, require a wood-destroying organism (WDO) report before closing, and it's a wise precaution even when not legally required.

How long does a termite inspection take?

A typical single-family home inspection takes 30–90 minutes, depending on size, crawl space access, and the number of outbuildings included.

Can I see termite damage myself without an inspection?

Visible signs like mud tubes and discarded wings can be spotted by a homeowner, but a licensed inspector checks less obvious areas like crawl spaces, sill plates, and wood-to-soil contact points that owners often miss.

Problems that lead to termite inspection

Sources for this termite inspection guide

National Pest Management Association, Termite Inspection Guidance
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Wood-Destroying Insect Report requirements
EPA, Termiticide Registration and Use Guidance