How Much Does Termite Inspection Cost?

Termites are a homeowner’s worst nightmare, given the destruction and damage they cause. It’s estimated that termites cause over five billion dollars in damage annually in the U.S. Fortunately, you don’t have to incur extra costs in repairs. If you know how to handle termites.

It’s essential to understand the signs of termite damage, ways to prevent termites, and the cost of termite inspections.

In this guide, learn how to identify a termite infestation and the average cost of termite inspection.

What are Termites?

Termites are tiny insects that live in a structured society. They create their nests in mounds of soil and feed on any wood they come across. Termite control can have up to three million insects.

The three common types of termites found in the U.S. include damp wood termites, dry wood termites, and subterranean termites. These three species are likely to invade your house.

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Termites like to stay hidden, but their destructive nature can cost you a couple of bucks. Failure to carry out regular termite inspection means you may not realize that you have a termite problem until it’s too late.

Below are some signs that will tell you that your home may have a termite infestation.

• Shed wings from swarmer’s spread throughout the house
• Wood that produces a hollow sound when tapped
• A group of winged insects crawling in your house
• A sign of frass or bubbling paint
• Mud tubes in crawl spaces, wooden beams, and exterior walls.

Carrying out an inspection also allows you to determine if you have other wood-destroying pests in your house like carpenter bees, wood-boring beetles, and carpenter ants.

Remember that spotting the signs of a termite infestation can be challenging. When you finally see them, that could mean that extensive damage has already occurred. That’s why it’s critical to have a termite control professional inspect your house.

Termite Inspection

You need a termite inspection to satisfy the pre-home buying process that involves termite inspection. An inspection can help you confirm the effectiveness of a previous treatment process. It helps with termite prevention, and you get a control quote. Also, it helps to satisfy the annual termite service agreement or a termite bond.

What Happens During a Termite Inspection?

Termites invade in the early spring and late summer. You’re likely to have a termite problem during these two seasons. It’s best to have a termite inspection during this season. Remember that the cost of termite inspection will depend on several factors.

During the inspection, the company’s staff checks your crawlspace or basement for moisture. They’ll also inspect your foundation for items that may bring in an infestation. Specific places like a garden shed or wooden deck could be risky and may be checked.

They will also check for other wood-damaging insects or factors like leaks and mold. A few companies provide a free inspection, but the report detailing the problem areas will cost you.

Some companies use tools like termite detection systems, moisture meters, and IR thermometers while inspecting to ensure they don’t miss anything. The entire process may take a few hours, depending on the size of your house.

It’s essential to work with a reputable termite inspector. You can go through the National Pest Management Association to find a trusted company. Make sure to find a company that is insured, licensed, and bonded. Always ask for references.

Termite Inspection Cost

How much does a termite inspection cost? That will depend on various factors. On average, the cost of termite inspection is $100. You may find a company that provides a free termite inspection each year when they inspect your house for other pests.

Also, if you’re getting your home inspected before a sale, expect to add at least $70 to $120 as inspection cost. An overall real estate inspection may cost you between $250 to over $500 depending on the company you choose.

Termite Treatment Cost

After the inspection, you’ll find out if you have a termite infestation. If the results show termite infestation, you may need to get a termite treatment to reduce the extensive damage these pests cause.

You can choose between three treatment options, which include fumigation, liquid treatment, and bait stations. An in-ground bait station attracts termites, and they take this bait back to their colony and die. It’s a convenient method to get rid of termites.

Liquid treatments are sprayed into holes and trenches. That creates a barrier against these pests as they dig. You can use this treatment alongside the bait station to ensure that it’s useful.

In extreme cases, you may have to go through fumigation. Gas is sprayed into your house to eliminate termites. While it’s an expensive option, it’s effective in termite treatment.

You can purchase a treatment plan after your inspection. That means the company will come once annually to monitor bait stations or perform a preventative treatment. That may vary, but could be between $120 to $300.

Chemical treatments depend on the linear foot and not the square footage of a house. Treatment may cost $1200 to upwards of $1500. Fumigation can cost $1400 and go up to $2500, depending on the size of your house.

Remember that some of these costs may go up if you’re working with a national pest control company. When paying for a treatment, you’re also paying for the cost of equipment, the chemical used, labor, licenses, taxes, insurance, and business expenses.

Final Thoughts

I hope that this guide has answered your question of how much is a termite inspection. Getting your home inspected for the presence of termites to not only avoid extensive damage but also save thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Always have a professional conduct termite inspection to ensure that all areas are covered. Remember that the cost of termite inspections depends on the type of treatment, location, and climate, external home issues, among other factors.

Get in touch with a professional termite control company that will come to your house, inspect it, and prepare a termite inspection report.