How to Hire a Termite Inspector

Before you sell a home, or if you plan to buy one, hiring the right termite inspector can save you money and headaches in the long run.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yellow Pages
• Contractor Referral Services
• Termite Inspectors

1. Look in the yellow pages under Pest Control for a licensed, bonded and insured company, or get a referral from a local real estate agent.

2. Call several companies and get a quote for the cost of inspecting the home.

3. Compare rates. If you are just having an inspection for the purpose of buying or selling a home, the cost shouldn't vary too much. If you want a monthly pest control service, find out what guarantees the company gives if an infestation returns before the next service call.

4. Request a copy of work done and clearance before signing any real estate papers.

Tips & Warnings

• Buying or selling a home usually requires a clear pest control report. The inspector looks for termite infestation as well as other pest infestation, plumbing leaks, obvious roof leaks, dry rot and water damage.
• Once the inspection is complete, note it on the termite report findings marked "Section I" and "Section II." Section I items are immediate problems that must be fixed or addressed before a clearance can be given. Section II items are not a problem now but could become a problem in the future, and do not require immediate attention or repair for a clearance.
• Sellers typically pay for Section I repairs and leave Section II repairs up to the buyers.
• The inspector is not responsible for inspecting areas that are inaccessible. Find out what areas are inaccessible and do what you can to open them up.
• Pest control inspection companies that also do repair work recommended on the report are typically more expensive than a general contractor or repair person.