A termite inspection costs $75 to $150 on average. When combined with a whole home inspection, services to check for termites are only $50 to $100 extra. If termites are found, then annual or ongoing termite inspections and treatments cost $500 to $2,000 for a termite bond.

A termite treatment costs $330 to $820 on average for a basic exterior treatment.

A termite inspection is worth it for:

• Identifying the cause of wood damages in your home
• Getting an official termite clearance letter to finalize a real-estate transaction
• Proving that a home qualifies for a loan when refinancing
• Filing a claim for damages with the landlord

During a termite inspection, you should expect the specialist to:

• Give you a detailed report of all termite presence and damage
• Suggest a treatment plan for any infestations
• Explain and list all the causes of the termite problem
• Find leaks that need to be sealed off to stop termites from spreading
• Offer you an annual service plan

A termite inspection takes 30 to 45 minutes on average or up to 2 hours for large homes or properties. The total time depends on the property size, site conditions, and accessibility.

Signs that you need a termite inspection include:

• Tiny wings that collect in small piles around damaged wood
• Many small holes in wood
• Drywall pinholes
• Small piles of sawdust-like debris
• Hollow-sounding spots in walls or wooden furniture

You need to get a termite inspection every 1 to 2 years on average, or you can wait up to 5 years if you live in a very cold and dry climate where termites are rare. However, if you've had termites before, then get a termite inspection every 1 to 3 months for up to 1 year after the treatment.

You should prepare for termite inspection by:

• Trimming back bushes that block the inspector’s view of the exterior walls.
• Moving everything inside the house at least 2' away from the walls.
• Take out all objects near the pipes under the sinks.
• Clear the entrances to the attic, basement, or crawlspace.
• Give a key or access codes to the inspector if you won't be home for the inspection.
• Tell the inspector how many buildings they need to inspect on the property before they arrive, including any detached storage spaces.
• Describe all evidence you've seen of possible termite damage.

Call an exterminator or termite specialist to get a thorough termite inspection. Before hiring:

• Compare at least 3 in-person estimates.
• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Choose licensed and insured businesses with at least 5 years of experience.
• Get copies of an itemized bid and contract before the inspection begins.
• Avoid choosing the lowest quote that typically indicates low-quality standards.
• Never give the final payment until after they complete the inspection and give you the report.

• How long have you been inspecting homes for termites?
• Can I see your list of references?
• What can I do to stop termites from spreading?
• How should I prepare my home for the termite inspection?
• Which treatment methods do you recommend and why?
• Will I need additional home repairs to prevent termites from coming back?
• Have the termites spread into my walls?
• What other costs should I expect beyond the inspection fee?
• How long will your assessment take?