🐞 Do I need a pest inspection to sell my home?

Once your home goes under contract, the offer you signed will be will likely be contingent on the results of the home inspection.

Home inspectors will look for any hazards, safety threats, or major defects but don’t look for pests. They may raise red flags like wood rot or moisture, and then recommend a specialist take a closer look.

The pest inspection is a separate process performed by a licensed pest inspector who’s trained to look for signs of infestations and who does pest inspections specifically for real estate transactions.

1. Is a pest inspection necessary?

A pest inspection is not a requirement of a home sale, and the rules for pest inspections vary state by state. However, termite report and clearance is required by the lender for most loan programs.

2. Who pays for the termite inspection?

In Central Iowa, the seller bears the cost of the pest inspection.

3. What should it cost?

The cost is minimal, it’s generally between $55-$100. This can be paid with your proceeds at closing.

4. Who orders the inspection?

Most of the time your real estate agent will order the inspection for you. If you’d like to find one on your own, just let your agent know.

5. What to expect from the pest inspection

They’re looking for wood destroying insects and rodents. The inspection itself can last as little as 30 minutes but takes longer depending on the size of your home and if you have any crawl spaces, a basement, or an attic.

6. What if termites are present?

If an inspector discovers pests, the seller is usually responsible for treating the problem. The seller can hire the pest company to treat for termites. Once treatment is completed they will provide a “clean” pest report to satisfy the requirement from the mortgage company.