The Average Cost of a Termite Inspection

Free

• Many pest control companies offer free termite inspections to first-time customers. This offer is generally made in the hopes that if the inspector finds evidence of termites, he will be right there to offer solutions, treatment plans and prices for the job. Note that getting a free inspection from a company does not require you to contract with it for services.

Small Property

• A termite inspection for a small property generally means a single family dwelling on a small to moderately sized lot. It could also mean an inspection on a shed or barn on a rural lot, or even a smaller stand-alone commercial building. The average cost for a small property inspection for termites is anywhere from $75 to $300 in 2009, depending on the company and the region.

Large Property

• A large property inspection generally means a public building, such as a church, school or store. Depending on the square footage of the structure, an inspector may even have to submit a custom price, especially if the property is extremely large or there are several buildings on the property. Estimates for large property termite inspections range from $300 to over $500.

Inspection Costs are Separate

• The termite inspection cost is always separate from the treatment costs. The company will do an initial termite inspection and give you a bill for that service. The inspection will also recommend any further action based on the results of that inspection. Termite inspection is also not part of the cost of a general home inspection, as performed for real estate transactions.

Time Frame

• A home inspection for termites will generally take just under an hour for a large property, and around 30 minutes for a small property. The time frame will vary depending on the structure, how much of the wooden areas are accessible, and general clutter. Since termites don't like bright lights and open spaces, the inspector must look beneath finished walls and around the foundation to see if termites have invaded the wooden frame or gone underground.