Should You Get A Termite Inspection When Buying A Home?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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A termite inspection is typically an expense borne by the buyer, but

it’s worth the price

. … The presence of termites doesn’t necessarily mean a home is unsound, though, especially if the infestation is relatively recent.

Should you get a termite inspection when buying a house?

Should You Get a Termite Inspection if it’s Not Required?

Yes, it’s highly recommended

. Regardless of whether or not you’re required to have an inspection, you absolutely should. This applies to not only the house-buying process, but to routine maintenance as a homeowner, too.

Do lenders require a termite inspection?

If you are a real estate agent, you know that

most banks and lenders require home termite inspections before they approve a loan

.

How much should a termite inspection cost?

A termite inspection will average

about $100 and range anywhere from $50 to $280

. This inspection is usually free when not tied to a home sale. Termite and home inspections are usually separate, though often bundled together.

Is a termite inspection worth it?

A termite inspection is typically an expense borne by the buyer, but

it’s worth the price

. … The presence of termites doesn’t necessarily mean a home is unsound, though, especially if the infestation is relatively recent.

How many years does a termite treatment last?

On average, termite treatment lasts

about 5 years

. Liquid termite treatment can last five years or more, whereas termite bait stations only last one year and need to be maintained annually.

Can you buy a house with termites?

Many people might advise you to

avoid buying a property that has a history of termites

, and certainly one with a current termite problem. But to dismiss the purchase might be to miss the opportunity of a lifetime.

Who pays for termite inspection buyer or seller?

If a termite inspection is being conducted as part of a real estate transaction, there is usually cost associated because the inspection covers other wood-destroying insects. Typically,

the seller will cover any costs associated with the

service.

How much does a house inspection cost?

“Home inspections generally cost

between $300 and $450

,” says Angie Hicks, co-founder of the home services website Angie’s List. Hicks says buyers can expect to pay at least $400 for a home inspection from a reputable company on an average 2,000-square-foot home.

Will a bank finance a house with termites?

Homebuyers seeking financing, however, may have difficulty buying a property with termite damage. Mortgage lenders often require homes to be free and clear of wood-destroying pests and want any affected components fixed before financing the purchase.

Do appraisers look for termites?

A home appraisal is needed for FHA loans and

the appraiser is required to look for termites

and report signs of damage. When evidence is seen, you must get a professional inspection, and repairs must be done before the loan is approved. Homebuyers generally pay for these appraisals and inspections.

Is a termite inspection required for an FHA loan?


Lenders must require a home inspection

for FHA loans, typically at the buyer’s expense. The inspection is required in order to make sure the property meets the FHA’s guidelines. … When a termite inspection is needed, it should be conducted by a licensed termite inspector.

How often should you have a termite inspection?

Ideally, all homeowners should get inspected

once a year

. Older homes do tend to be more at risk for termites, making it absolutely essential to not only stay vigilant about inspecting your home yourself on a regular basis but also get a professional’s opinion every single year.

How can you tell if you have termites?

  1. Discolored or drooping drywall.
  2. Peeling paint that resembles water damage.
  3. Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
  4. Small, pinpoint holes in drywall.
  5. Buckling wooden or laminate floor boards.
  6. Tiles loosening from the added moisture termites can introduce to your floor.

How do you prepare for a termite inspection?

  1. Do a Little Bit of Rearranging. …
  2. Make It Easy to Access the Attic. …
  3. Clear the Crawl Space. …
  4. Take Care of Some Landscaping. …
  5. Getting Rid of Excess Moisture. …
  6. Keeping Landscaping Clean. …
  7. Repairing Your Roof and Attic As Soon as There’s An Issue. …
  8. Saying No to Cardboard.

Can you ever really get rid of termites?

Use a chemical termite barrier treatment

Danny says the best product on the market for treating termite infestations on homes where the foundations are built into the ground (eg. slab homes) is

Termidor

. Termidor is a chemical treatment which does not repel termites, yet is poisonous once ingested.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.