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Termite inspection: what you are paying for

An inspection is either a service you pay for or the first step of a sales visit. Both can be fine, as long as you know which one you booked.

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The short version

What sets the price: Whether it is a paid report or the start of a treatment quote.
When you need one: Buying or selling a house, or after finding damaged wood.
Ask first: Whether you will get a written report you can keep.

An inspection should cover

The foundation and the soil line outside.
The crawl space or basement.
Exposed wood in the garage and attic.
A written report of what was found.

Ask before booking

Is there a charge, and what does it buy?
Will the inspector also be selling treatment?
Is the report accepted for a home sale?
Is the company licensed by the state?

The two kinds of inspection

A report for a saleLenders and buyers often ask for a wood-destroying insect report. It is a paid document with a set format.
A treatment estimateMany companies inspect at no charge because the visit ends with a quote. Get a second one before deciding.
A yearly checkThe EPA's view of a service contract is that it should include periodic inspections.
The inspectorThe EPA advises asking to see the company's license and the applicator's certification.

How the visit usually goes

The inspector walks the outside of the house.
Crawl space, basement and exposed wood are checked and probed.
Findings are explained and shown to you.
You receive the report, and a quote if treatment is suggested.

The EPA advises caution with unexpected visits, including someone at the door saying termites were found at a neighbor's house. An inspection you did not ask for is a sales call.

Related guides

Sources

US Environmental Protection Agency: selecting a pest control service