Termite Inspection Cost Guide for California Homeowners

Imagine enjoying your Los Angeles home’s sunny patio or cozy living room – the last thing you want is a hidden termite colony quietly eating away at your biggest investment. Termites may be tiny, but the damage they cause can lead to huge repair bills if left unchecked. That’s why understanding termite inspection costs and scheduling regular checks is so important. In this guide, we’ll break down how much a termite inspection costs, what factors influence the price (especially in California), and what to expect during the process. We’ll also share tips to save money, discuss how inspections tie into selling your home, and offer solutions if termites are found.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to protect your property’s value or thinking about selling your house, a little knowledge about termite inspections can go a long way. Let’s dive into the costs and get you prepared – with a special focus on Los Angeles and California pricing – so you can keep your home termite-free and maintain its value with confidence.

Termite Inspection Costs: National Averages vs. California

So, what is the average cost of a termite inspection? For most homeowners across the U.S., a professional termite inspection typically costs between $75 and $325, with a national average around $. In many cases, pest control companies will even offer a free termite inspection for homeowners (especially if it’s not tied to a sale) as a way to earn your business for treatment if . This means the cost of a termite inspection can range from no charge at all (in promotional cases) to a few hundred dollars, depending on your situation. It’s a good idea to budget roughly around that $100 average termite inspection cost for a one-time check, as that’s what many people pay.

However, costs can vary widely by region. Here in California, termite inspections tend to be affordable – and often very competitive in pricing. Most standard termite or wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspections in California run about $100 to $200 as of 2025, with statewide surveys showing an average around $. In fact, a quick snapshot of pricing shows that in Southern California (Los Angeles and Orange County especially), quotes often skew toward the lower end of that range – roughly $95 to $140 – thanks to heavy competition among local pest . That means the termite inspection cost in Los Angeles typically falls somewhere just under $150 in most cases, which is great news for homeowners. By contrast, some other high-termite areas (like certain parts of Florida) might see higher inspection fees or larger ranges due to demand and more extensive inspection methods. (For example, one report noted that termite inspections in Florida could range roughly from the mid-$400s into the low $1,, though those higher figures likely include specialized techniques or bundled services.)

Why is California’s average termite inspection cost relatively low? One reason is that many California pest control companies rely on inspections as an opportunity to provide estimates for treatment. It’s not uncommon to see ads for a free termite inspection in Los Angeles, especially if you’re not in escrow. Do keep in mind, though, that if you need an official termite inspection report for a home purchase or sale (often called a termite clearance letter or Wood-Destroying Organism report), there might be a fee. In California real estate transactions, an official Section 1 termite clearance letter – which certifies that any active infestation (Section 1 items) has been addressed – typically costs an additional $75 to $100 on top of the inspection . So if your basic termite inspection price is around $100, budgeting about $175-$200 total would cover getting that clearance document for escrow.

Bundling with other inspections: If you’re buying or selling a home, you might bundle the termite inspection with a general home inspection or a broader building and pest inspection package. Often, a home inspector can coordinate a termite (pest) inspection at the same time for a small add-on fee. For example, a standard home inspection might cost about $300-$500, and adding a termite inspection usually adds roughly $50 to $100 more to the . This combined building and pest inspection cost is often in the $250 to $400 range for an average home when done . It’s a convenient option to cover all bases at once. Just make sure the pest inspection portion is done by a licensed termite professional, because regular home inspectors might note signs of termites but aren’t certified to provide an official termite report.

Annual termite inspection cost: If you’re in a termite-prone area (which includes most of Los Angeles), experts recommend getting an annual termite inspection or at least one every couple of . The good news is many pest control companies waive the fee for annual inspections or offer a very low-cost yearly plan. In fact, if you sign up for a yearly pest management program or if you’re an existing customer, the annual termite inspection might be free as part of ongoing . Even without a plan, some companies simply charge a nominal fee (or nothing) for an annual check-up, knowing that early detection might lead to treatment work. Essentially, regular termite inspections are an investment that can save you money by catching problems early – and many companies encourage this by making routine inspections low-cost or complimentary.

Key Factors That Affect Termite Inspection Costs

Not every termite inspection will carry the same price tag. Several factors can influence how much you pay for a termite inspection:

• Property Size: Larger homes or buildings take more time to inspect. A small condo or cottage will be quicker (and often cheaper) to inspect than a 5,000 sq. ft. house with a crawl space and attic. For instance, inspecting one isolated area or a small home might cost as little as $75, whereas a sprawling home with multiple levels or outbuildings could be closer to $300+. Many companies have tiered pricing brackets (e.g. under 2,500 sq. ft., 2,500–4,000 sq. ft., etc.) – with larger homes incurring higher fees.
  
  

• Infestation Severity: If the inspector or homeowner already suspects termites, the process may be more involved. A simple preventive check might be quick, but actively seeing damage (like hollow wood or mud tubes) means the inspector will likely spend extra time to assess the full extent. While the cost of a basic termite inspection might stay flat, some companies could charge more for an extensive inspection if an active infestation is present, since it requires a more thorough investigation. (For example, an inspection of a minor issue could be on the low end of the cost range, whereas a major infestation spread through multiple areas might be at the high end, excluding any treatment .)
  
  

• Geographic Location: Where you live plays a big role. Termites are a year-round concern in warm climates like Southern California, Texas, or Florida, which means high demand for inspections and treatments. In areas with higher cost of living or severe termite problems, inspection fees might be a bit higher to match local labor rates and . On the other hand, in places with lots of pest control competition – Los Angeles is a great example – prices can be more competitive. (As noted, LA homeowners often find reasonable inspection .) Also, some states have unique requirements: e.g., certain states in the Southeast require specific wood-destroying insect inspection reports for real estate sales, which can set a standard price in those regions. California, however, does not mandate a pest inspection for every home sale by law, but many buyers and lenders will insist on one anyway.
  
  

• Type of Inspection & Technology Used: The standard termite inspection is a visual process – a licensed inspector checks the interior and exterior of the home (including crawl spaces, basements, attics, and the foundation perimeter) for any evidence of termites or conditions that attract them. This is usually sufficient and keeps costs modest. However, there are more advanced methods available: some companies offer thermal imaging, moisture sensors, or even acoustic emission detectors to find termites inside walls or otherwise hidden. These high-tech inspections can come at a premium price. For example, a company using infrared cameras or termite-detecting radar might charge extra, potentially pushing an inspection cost above the typical range. These methods aren’t usually necessary unless a serious hidden infestation is suspected, but it’s good to know they exist. (Generally, for most homeowners, a thorough visual termite and pest inspection by an experienced pro will do the job.)
  
  

• Reports and Official Letters: If you simply want to check your home for peace of mind, a basic inspection is all you need. But if you’re involved in a home sale or purchase, you might require official paperwork. A termite inspection report for closing (often called a clearance letter, WDI/WDO report, or termite certificate) is a formal document stating the findings and any treatment done. As mentioned earlier, getting this termite clearance letter usually incurs a fee in California – roughly an extra $75–$ – because it’s essentially a certified document for the transaction. This can also be called a “Section 1 clearance” in California, meaning all active infestations (Section 1 items) have been treated and cleared. If a lender requires this report, it becomes a necessary part of your closing costs. So the cost of pest inspection for home purchase may be a bit higher than a casual homeowner check due to that documentation.
  
  

• One-Time vs. Annual Plan: We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth emphasizing. A one-time termite inspection fee (say you call a company out of the blue) might be, for example, $100. But many companies incentivize customers to have ongoing annual termite inspections or warranties. If you sign up for an annual service plan or a termite bond (a warranty program against termites), the inspection might be included at no extra cost. A termite bond, common in some states, is essentially a contract that includes regular inspections and treatment coverage for a set period – these can cost a few hundred dollars a year (often $500–$2,000 for multi-year coverage), but they provide peace of mind that any infestations will be taken care of. For our purposes, just remember that annual inspection prices are often lower per visit – sometimes free – whereas first-time or one-off inspections (like those needed for a real estate deal) will have a set fee.
  
  

What Happens During a Termite Inspection?

Understanding what you’re paying for can make any price tag feel more worthwhile. A typical home termite inspection in Los Angeles (or anywhere) involves a licensed inspector doing a thorough top-to-bottom check. Here’s what that usually includes:

• Exterior Check: The inspector will walk around the outside of your house, examining the foundation, eaves, siding, and soil around the perimeter. They’re looking for telltale signs like mud tubes on foundations (little mud tunnels termites use to travel), damaged or hollow-sounding wood, piles of discarded wings near windowsills (a sign of termite swarms), or any wood-to-ground contact points that could invite termites. They’ll also note any moisture issues outside, because damp wood can attract certain termites and wood-destroying fungi.
  
  

• Interior Inspection: Inside, the focus is on areas where termites are likely to be or where wood is exposed. This means checking along baseboards, door frames, window frames, and in basements or crawl spaces. The inspector might enter the crawl space under the house (if you have one) to look at floor joists and supports. They’ll also inspect the attic for any damage in the rafters or roof supports. If you have a garage or any attached structures, those get checked too. Any sign of termite damage – such as wood that sounds hollow when tapped, bubbling or cracked paint (could indicate damage beneath), or frass (termite droppings that look like sawdust) – will be noted.
  
  

• Moisture and Problem Areas: Termites love moisture, so inspectors often use a moisture meter in walls or wood to detect high levels of moisture which could indicate a leak or favorable conditions for termites. They’ll also point out conducive conditions – for example, if you have a pile of firewood against the house, or wooden fencing touching the house, or leaky plumbing – basically anything that might invite termites or other pests. Part of the inspection is preventive: identifying and alerting you to risks so you can fix them.
  
  

• Other Pests: While it’s primarily a termite inspection, professionals often keep an eye out for other wood-destroying insects like carpenter ants or powderpost beetles, as well as evidence of rodents or general pest issues. In California, the official term is usually “WDO inspection” (Wood-Destroying Organisms), which can cover termites, wood-boring beetles, wood rot fungus, etc. So don’t be surprised if the inspector notes some fungus or other pests; it’s all part of protecting the home. (Just note that a pest inspection for things like rodents or cockroaches is usually separate – here we’re focused on termites and related wood pests.)
  
  

• Duration: How long does a termite inspection take? For an average-sized house, a termite inspection typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to . Larger or more complex homes might take longer, and if an active infestation is found, the inspector might spend additional time gathering evidence and formulating a treatment plan. By comparison, if it’s a small condo unit, it could be less than an hour. It’s a relatively small time investment considering the potential protection it offers your home.
  
  

• Documentation (Report): After the inspection, you will receive a report or summary. This document will detail any findings – e.g., “No termites found” (ideally!) or descriptions of damage/infestation if found, and usually photos of problem areas. If termites are discovered, the report often comes with a recommendation for treatment and a quote. If this inspection is for a home sale, the report will clearly state if there are active termites (Section 1 issues) or conditions that could lead to termites (Section 2 issues). It’s essentially the roadmap for what to do next.
  
  

In the words of experienced real estate professionals, catching termite problems early is crucial. “Every homeowner should be aware of the importance of regular inspections — not just for peace of mind, but because catching issues early on can save a lot of headaches and expense down the road,” says Tricia Watts, a Los Angeles real estate expert and founder of MaxNet Homes. In other words, a termite inspection isn’t just an annoying extra task – it’s a smart strategy to protect your home’s value. Finding out your house has termites before they cause major structural damage can literally save you thousands of dollars.

Termite Treatment Costs (And Other Expenses if Termites Are Found)

What if the inspection uncovers a termite infestation? First off, don’t panic – termites are common in Southern California, and there are effective treatments available. But you will need to address it, and that comes with additional costs beyond the inspection itself. It’s good to be prepared for what those might be:

• Termite Treatment Costs: The cost of termite treatment depends on the severity of the infestation and the method used. For minor or localized infestations, spot treatments can be done. Spot treatments might involve drilling into wood or walls where termites are active and injecting termiticides, or using orange oil or other localized methods. These can cost roughly $10 to $20 per linear foot – so if you have a small area of a few feet, it’s relatively affordable. However, if termites are widespread or in multiple areas, a more aggressive approach may be needed. Whole-house treatments include tent fumigation (where the home is tented and gas fumigated) or extensive barrier treatments around the foundation. Fumigation is usually the most expensive route – it can range from around $1,500 up to $8,000 or more depending on the size of the . An average homeowner with a moderate infestation might spend around $1,000 or more on termite , but every case varies. In California, fumigation is common for drywood termites, whereas subterranean termites often can be treated with localized chemical barriers or baits which might be a bit less pricey than a full tenting.
  
  

• Repair Costs: Termites actually eat wood, and over time they can compromise the structural integrity of parts of your home. If an inspection finds long-term termite damage – say, in a deck, porch, or worse, in critical framing like floor joists or studs – you might need to do repairs. The cost of repairing termite damage can range widely. Replacing a few boards might be a few hundred dollars, but major structural repairs can run into thousands of dollars. For example, repairing damaged framing or wood support beams could cost a couple thousand dollars in serious . This is why catching infestations early is so important; the longer termites chew undisturbed, the more you’ll pay in repairs. Unfortunately, standard homeowners insurance does not typically cover termite damage or treatment (since insurers consider it preventable maintenance), so these expenses usually come out-of-pocket.
  
  

• Follow-Up Inspections: After treatment, you may need follow-up inspections or monitoring. Some pest companies include a re-inspection or follow-up in their treatment package (especially if you purchase a warranty or bond). If not, you might opt to pay for a re-inspection after a certain period (say 3 or 6 months) to ensure the termites are truly gone. Such follow-up visits might cost on the order of another standard inspection (perhaps in the ~$75+ range) or could be lower if it’s a quick check. In real estate scenarios, if your initial inspection was more than 90 days before closing, a lender might require a re-inspection to refresh the report, which in California often costs around $75 to $.
  
  

• Termite Clearance and Warranty Fees: As noted, getting a formal termite clearance letter is usually a modest fee. Some companies also offer a warranty after they treat your home – for example, they might guarantee no termites for a year or two, and include free re-treatment if they return. This might be part of the treatment cost or an extra service you can purchase. A termite warranty (or bond) can be worth considering if you’re in a high-risk area or selling your home (it can transfer to a buyer as a selling point that the home is under warranty). Costs for these agreements in California can vary, but paying a few hundred dollars for a year or two of coverage is common, and often negotiable as part of a treatment package.
  
  

In summary, the cost for termite inspection and treatment combined can start to add up if you do have an infestation – perhaps a few hundred for inspection and letters, a thousand or more for treatment, and possibly repair costs on top. It’s not a fun expense, but it’s necessary to preserve your home’s value and safety. The sooner you deal with it, the less overall cost you’ll likely incur.

Tips to Save Money on Termite Inspections and Treatments

Facing the possibility of termites (and the bills that come with them) can feel daunting. The good news is there are several ways you can cut costs or get the most value out of termite inspections:

• Take Preventive Measures: Perhaps the best way to save money is to prevent termites in the first place. Keep your property less inviting to these pests. This means removing wood debris or old stumps from your yard, keeping firewood or lumber stacks well away from the house, and fixing any water leaks or moisture issues promptly (since damp wood is a termite magnet). Also, maintain a gap between soil and any wooden parts of your home – for example, don’t let mulch pile up against your siding. By making your home less hospitable to termites, you reduce the chances of an infestation and the subsequent treatment . Prevention is usually inexpensive (or even free) and can save you a bundle down the road.
  
  

• Regular Inspections: It might sound counterintuitive to spend money to save money, but paying for regular termite inspections can actually be cost-effective. Annual termite inspections (even if they cost ~$100 each time) could catch a problem early, long before severe damage occurs. Compare a $100 yearly check to a $5,000 repair bill later – it’s a small price to pay. As mentioned, many companies will do these checks at low or no cost if you’re on a plan, so take advantage of that. Being proactive is key; proactive homeowners tend to have lower termite-related costs in the long run because they nip problems in the bud. As one industry professional aptly put it, “The expense of prevention and routine inspection is a small price to pay compared to the substantial costs that can arise from significant termite damage.”.
  
  

• Shop Around and Get Multiple Quotes: Prices for termite inspections (and especially treatments) can vary between companies. It pays to call a few local pest control services and compare inspection fees. Some might charge $125 for an inspection, others only $75, and some free – the range can be surprising. Just make sure you’re comparing apples to apples: ask what the inspection includes, whether a written report or letter is extra, and if they offer any guarantees or discounts on treatment if needed. For treatments, definitely get a couple of quotes if you can, especially for costly procedures like fumigation. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best (you want a reputable company that will stand by their work), but by comparing you’ll get a sense of a fair price and maybe leverage a better deal. Local tip: In Los Angeles, because there are many pest control providers, use that competition to your advantage – don’t be shy to negotiate or ask if they’ll match a competitor’s price for an inspection or treatment.
  
  

• Bundle Services: If you need other pest control services or inspections (like a general home inspection, or perhaps you also have a rodent issue to check out), see if you can bundle them with your termite inspection. Some full-service home inspectors will partner with a termite inspector to give you a combo rate. Also, if you’re selling your home and need a termite, chimney, roof, and home inspection, sometimes you can arrange a package deal or at least get a small discount for booking everything through one company or referral network. It never hurts to ask.
  
  

• Consider Annual Contracts or Bonds: If your home has a history of termites or you just want peace of mind, an annual contract might save money over time. For example, if a company charges $300 per year and that includes an annual inspection and free re-treatment if termites are found, that could be cheaper than paying for a big treatment every few years. Termite bonds (common in some states) ensure the company will come back and treat at no extra cost if termites return during the coverage period. For many homeowners in termite-heavy zones, this can be worth it. Just read the fine print to know what’s covered.
  
  

• Timing and Negotiating: If you’re in the middle of a real estate transaction, who pays for the termite inspection and repairs can be a point of negotiation. In California, it’s often negotiated in the contract – sellers frequently pay for the inspection (and Section 1 treatments) to facilitate the sale, but it can be split or handled differently. If you’re selling, offering to pay for the inspection and any Section 1 clearance can give buyers confidence and might help your sale. If you’re buying, you might negotiate for the seller to address termite issues or credit you the cost. Being flexible and negotiating these costs as part of the overall deal can make the expenses easier to swallow. From an SEO standpoint, many people search for “who pays for termite inspection when selling a house”, and the answer is: it depends on your agreement – but in most Los Angeles home sales, the seller handles the termite inspection fee (and if treatments are needed, often the seller handles those too, especially if lender-required). So as a seller, it’s wise to plan for that cost.
  
  

In short, staying proactive and informed is your best strategy. Termite inspections and even treatments don’t have to break the bank, especially if you catch problems early and leverage free or low-cost inspection offers.

Termite Inspections and Selling Your Home in Los Angeles

Termite inspections take on an extra layer of importance when you’re selling a house, particularly in California. The last thing you want is to have a buyer’s inspector discover termite damage that could derail your sale or force costly last-minute repairs. Here are a few things Los Angeles sellers should know:

• Not Legally Required, But Highly Recommended: Unlike some states (for instance, certain Southern states require a specific termite inspection report by law for every sale), California does not automatically require a termite inspection during a home sale. However, many buyers will request one during their inspection period, and most lenders (especially VA or FHA loans) will require a termite clearance if there’s any indication of termites. VA loans in California, in fact, always require a termite inspection and Section 1 clearance as part of the loan approval, due to the high risk of termites in our region. So, while you could sell a house without a termite inspection in a purely cash deal or if the buyer waives it, that’s pretty rare. Most of the time, it’s in the seller’s interest to just get it done.
  
  

• Identifying Problems Early: As a homeowner thinking of selling, it’s a smart move to get a termite inspection before listing your home. Why? If the inspection finds an issue, you have the opportunity to fix it on your own terms (perhaps shopping around for the best repair price or doing a minor treatment) rather than in a rushed negotiation with a buyer. You’ll also have to disclose any known termite damage or treatment to buyers in California, so it’s better to be upfront and address it. If your property gets a clean report, you can actually use that as a selling point – imagine being able to tell buyers, “We already did a termite inspection and it came out clear, here’s the report.” It gives buyers peace of mind.
  
  

• Costs for Sellers: If you do find termites and you’re selling, expect to invest in treatment. Typical termite treatment costs in Los Angeles might be in the low thousands if fumigation is needed (commonly, tenting a California home might cost around $1,800 to $2,500 for an average house, though size and severity vary). Alternatively, you could negotiate with the buyer on handling it – maybe lowering the price or giving a credit so the buyer handles the termite treatment after closing. But be aware: many lenders won’t fund a loan on a home with active termites, so usually the seller needs to ensure a “termite clearance” is provided. This could mean you pay for the treatment and clearance letter before closing.
  
  

• Local Termite Trends: Los Angeles has a mix of drywood termites (which often require tenting) and subterranean termites (which often require soil treatments or baiting). Many older homes in LA have had termite work done at some point. It’s almost a routine part of home maintenance here. Buyers from out of state might be surprised by that, but local buyers and agents won’t be – they’ll expect a termite report. So it’s best to embrace this as part of the selling process. The good news is that termite issues, while unpleasant, are treatable and fairly common – having a termite history isn’t usually a deal-breaker as long as it’s been resolved.
  
  

• Leaning on Experts: If you’re unsure how to navigate this, talk to your real estate agent or a local expert. For example, Tricia Watts of MaxNet Homes has plenty of experience working with Los Angeles homeowners who need to deal with termites during a sale. She often advises sellers on cost-effective ways to handle termite problems, or even offers alternatives like selling the home “as is” if the owner doesn’t want to pour money into repairs. This brings us to an important point – you have options if dealing with termite damage feels overwhelming.
  
  

What if you don’t want to deal with termites at all? Perhaps you’ve discovered extensive termite damage and the repairs are beyond what you can manage, or you’re on a tight timeline and don’t want the hassle. In such cases, consider reaching out to a cash home buyer like MaxNet Homes. We specialize in purchasing houses as-is, termites and all. You won’t have to spend thousands on termite tenting or replacing wood – we handle those problems after we buy your house. For homeowners looking to sell fast in Los Angeles, this can be a relief: you get a fair cash offer for your home in its current condition, and you can walk away without the stress of repairs or further inspections. Termites can be a headache, but they don’t have to stop you from selling your home on your terms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Termite Inspections

How often should I get a termite inspection? – In termite-prone areas like Los Angeles and most of California, it’s wise to have a termite inspection once a year. At minimum, aim for every two years if your risk is . Regular checks are the best way to catch an infestation early. If your home has a history of termites or lots of wood structure, stick to annual inspections. And always get an inspection before buying a home, regardless of timing.

How long does a termite inspection take? – Usually about 1 to 2 hours for an average house. If you have a large property or multiple structures (like a detached garage or shed that also needs checking), it could take longer. Generally, inspectors are very thorough – they aren’t just doing a quick glance, so expect them to take their time to check all nooks and crannies. It’s time well spent.

Are termite inspections in California free? – They can be. Many pest control companies offer a free termite inspection for homeowners (hoping to earn your trust and business if treatment is needed). However, if this is an inspection for a home purchase (escrow), or if you specifically need an official report, there’s typically a fee (around that ~$100 mark, as discussed). Always clarify when you call: “Is the inspection free? And is there a charge for the report or letters if I’m in escrow?” Some companies might say the inspection is free but charge for the paperwork. In Los Angeles, you have plenty of options, so you can likely find a free or low-cost inspection if it’s just for peace of mind.

What happens if termites are found during the inspection? – The inspector will detail the extent of the problem in the report and almost always provide a recommendation for treatment. You’ll get an estimate for treating the termites, which could range from a localized treatment to a whole-house fumigation depending on severity. You are not obligated to hire the same company for treatment, but since they’re familiar with your case, many homeowners do proceed with them. After treatment, you should receive a clearance letter or certificate stating that the home has been treated and cleared of active termites – this is important if you’re in a real estate transaction. Also, don’t be surprised if the company offers a warranty or annual plan at this point (it’s often a good idea to accept a warranty if available, for future protection).

Do I need a termite inspection for a condo or new construction? – Termites don’t discriminate – if there’s wood, they can find it. Condo owners, check your HOA rules: in many condos, the exterior and structural components are covered by the HOA, which might perform periodic termite inspections for the building. You may still want to inspect the interior of your unit if it’s ground-floor or if neighbors have had issues. For newly built homes, you might think termites aren’t a concern, but California building codes often require soil treatment for termites during construction. Even so, within a few years, new homes can get infested (especially drywood termites that can fly in). It’s not a bad idea to start routine inspections even on new homes after a couple of years.

Will a termite problem lower my home’s value? – If left untreated, yes, severe termite damage can significantly hurt your home’s value – some estimates say untreated termite issues can reduce a home’s value by 20-25% or more, especially if structural integrity is compromised. But if you treat the problem and repair the damage, most or all of that value is restored. Buyers mainly want to know that the home is termite-free and structurally sound. So, take termite discoveries seriously, fix them, and your home value should be fine. If you choose not to fix it, expect buyers to demand a hefty discount to compensate.

Protecting Your Home (and Wallet) from Termites – Final Thoughts

For homeowners in Los Angeles and across California, termite inspections are a small investment with big returns. Spending a hundred dollars or so once a year to ensure tiny wood-munching insects aren’t feasting on your house can save you from potentially tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Remember, the average cost of a termite inspection is , especially compared to the cost of termite treatment or, worse, repairing extensive damage. It’s one of those preventative measures that, if skipped, you’ll wish you hadn’t.

To recap: most people pay under $150 for a termite inspection (often less in Los Angeles with competitive , and sometimes even $0 if you find a free offer). If you’re buying or selling a home, factor in an extra ~$100 for the official report. If termites are found, brace for treatment costs that can range from a few hundred for minor spot treatments to a couple thousand for full-home fumigation. It’s wise to include termite checks in your home maintenance routine, just like you service your HVAC or clean the gutters – it’s part of owning a home in termite territory.

And if the uninvited guests are found? Don’t delay – treat them promptly. The sooner the termites are gone, the sooner your home is safe and you can breathe a sigh of relief. If handling the issue and repairs feels overwhelming, remember that you have options like reaching out to a reputable cash buyer.

Take Action – Protect Your Home & Explore Your Options: If you’re in Los Angeles or anywhere in Southern California, now is a great time to schedule your annual termite inspection. Don’t wait until you see visible damage – by then, the colony has been busy for a while. Catch them early, and you’ll be glad you did. And if you’re a homeowner thinking about selling (or just tired of dealing with home issues like termites), consider contacting Tricia Watts and the MaxNet Homes team. We offer free, no-obligation consultations and can even provide a cash offer for your home as-is. You read that right – you can skip the repairs, skip the stress, and sell your house without the usual hassles. Termites or not, we’re here to help Los Angeles homeowners find the best solution, whether that’s guiding you on upkeep or helping you sell quickly for a fair price.

Secure your home’s future by staying vigilant against termites. And when you’re ready to take the next step – whether it’s selling your house or simply getting expert advice – reach out to Tricia Watts at MaxNet Homes. We’re straightforward, empathetic, and ready to assist you with honest guidance and solutions. Your home is your biggest investment; let’s keep it safe, sound, and termite-free together!