Pest control · Hiring and comparing quotes · Updated November 2026
Pest Inspection vs. Home Inspection: What Each Covers
A general home inspection and a pest (wood-destroying insect) inspection are separate services. A home inspector may point out signs of pests, but a licensed pest inspector does the detailed check that many lenders and buyers rely on.
How they differ
| Home inspection | Pest (WDI/WDO) inspection | |
|---|---|---|
| Done by | Home inspector | Licensed pest control inspector |
| Looks at | Structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and more | Termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles and conducive conditions |
| Report | Full condition report | Wood-destroying insect report, often on a standard form |
| Typical cost | Varies by home size and region | About $150 average ($50–$325); $50–$100 added to a home inspection |
Pest inspection figures from HomeAdvisor.
When you need a pest inspection
- Buying a home, especially in termite-prone areas.
- When a lender requires one (some loan types and regions do). A termite letter typically runs $100–$200.
- Periodically if you live where termites are common; many pest companies offer annual inspections at low or no cost.
- If you see signs of termites (termite treatment cost).
For home buyers
Schedule the pest inspection within your inspection contingency period, ask whether the inspector found active infestation or old damage, and get a contractor to evaluate any structural damage. See home inspection findings: which contractor handles each problem.
Sources
- HomeAdvisor: Termite and pest inspection cost, accessed November 2026
Cost figures are national ranges from the sources listed above, not a quote from FixFinch or any contractor. Calls connect you with an independent service provider in our network. FixFinch is not a contractor and does not perform the work.