
While pest inspection and termite inspection may seem to be the same, there are some key distinctions that set them apart. In general, pest inspectors are looking for any type of infestation, while termite inspectors focus specifically on signs of termites.
Full Answer
What does a termite inspection look for?
A termite inspection is often performed by a trained technician from a state-licensed pest control company. All houses should have annual termite inspections in areas where termites are prevalent. The termite inspector looks for signs of termite activity like shelter tubes along foundation walls.
What is a pest inspection?
The pest inspection is a separate process performed by a licensed pest inspector who’s trained to look for signs of infestations and who does pest inspections specifically for real estate transactions.
Do I need a pest inspection when buying a home?
During a pest inspection, an inspector can advise you on whether you (or the buyer of your home) will need regular pest control. With termite treatment, a warranty is common and can include a renewal fee, which usually involves a subsequent inspection to extend the warranty, Bentley said.
Does South Carolina require a termite inspection?
South Carolina requires a “ Wood Infestation Report ” (called a CL-100) with all real-estate transactions, but California does not, for instance. However, many mortgage lenders do require a termite or pest inspection to make sure the house is clear before they put up the financing for it.

How much is a pest termite inspection?
Termite inspection costs range from $50-$280 and typically cost $100, according to 2022 data from HomeAdvisor. Many home inspectors offer termite inspections as part of a package. Termite inspections purchased along with a general home inspection may be cheaper than standalone termite inspections.
What does a pest control inspection consist of?
What Does A Pest Inspection Entail?A Thorough Search For Any Infestations. A trained pest inspector will look through the interior and exterior of your home for all manner of critters that could be a hazard. ... An Evaluation Of Any Structural Damage. ... A Detailed Pest Report. ... Instructions For Treatment And Damage Repair.
How do you know you have termite damage?
If you look carefully, you can see signs of termite damage underneath, such as:Small pinholes where termites have eaten through.Bubbling paint.Peeling or discolored wallpaper.Buckling wood.Dented or sunken areas.Narrow, sunken winding lines.
How long is a termite inspection good for in California?
two yearsHow long is an inspection report valid? Under the law, inspection reports and completion notices are valid for two years. This also means all complaints against licensees must be filed with SPCB within two years after the date of the inspection or completion of recommendations.
How do I prepare for pest control?
Preparing a Home for Pest TreatmentsClear sinks of any dirty dishes.Eliminate any standing water in and around your home.Vacuum regularly.Wipe down counter tops.Place all food and perishable items in airtight containers whenever possible.Dispose of/put away all paper goods and products.More items...•
What determines the cost of pest control?
Several factors determine the frequency of service a pest control company will need to complete the job, such as the type of service required, the extent of the infestation, the size of your home and more. Therefore, the more extensive the treatment, the more frequent the service required and the higher the cost.
What kills termites instantly?
What chemical kills termites? There are two main chemicals used to kill termites—fipronil and hexaflumuron. Fipronil is the specially designed chemical used as an active ingredient in many different liquid termiticides. In high enough concentrations, it can kill termites on contact.
What attracts termites in the house?
Leaky pipes, improper drainage, and poor airflow all create moisture issues that attract termites. Dampwood and subterranean termites in particular thrive in humid environments. While dampwood termites prefer water-damaged wood, subterranean termites are unable to live unless surrounded by enough moisture.
How fast can termites destroy a house?
A new colony can have about 100,000 workers at the ready, but an older colony can have about 2 million termites. With about 2 million termites working in the right condition they can cause significant damage within the first few months. A home can be totally destroyed in a year or two.
Do most homes in California have termites?
Termites are active across the state of California, from Redding to San Francisco, down to Fresno, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Diego. Both subterranean and drywood termites are well-known for damaging homes in California.
What percentage of homes in California have termites?
Unfortunately, 90% of California is located in a heavy-risk Termite Infestation Probability Zone. If you live in northern California your home is at moderate risk for termite damage.
Who pays for termite repairs in California?
In most cases, termite prevention is paid for by the buyers, and termite treatment is paid for by the seller in the closing costs. However, if the seller listed the house “as is,” the buyers are responsible for all termite damage and future prevention costs.
How do you prepare for a roach inspection?
Preparing For Roach TreatmentEmpty The Cabinets & Drawers: Empty out all kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers.Empty countertops: Remove all small appliances and knicknacks. ... Clean: Clean all appliances, counter tops, cabinets, Drawers and kitchen/bathroom floors with soap and hot water.More items...
What are 4 responsibilities task of a pest control worker?
Primary Responsibilities Identify invading pests, including rats, termites, snakes, wasps, ants, spiders, mosquitos, or bed bugs. Set mechanical traps and place bait. Remove dead rodents after extermination. Ensure house or building is empty when product is applied.
What are pest control duties?
Day-to-day tasksinvestigate and identify pests.collect dead animals and samples for analysis.find out how pests are getting into buildings.choose a method of control.spray chemicals to get rid of insects.lay poison and traps or use air guns to control birds and animals.repair an area to stop pests returning.More items...
What does a building and pest inspection cover?
It will include any significant building defects or problems such as rising damp, movement in the walls (cracking), safety hazards or a faulty roof. It is usually carried out before you exchange sale contracts so you can identify problems which, if left unchecked, could prove costly to repair.