Termite Inspection (WDO): What to Know
A $75–$200 inspection that prevents a $1,500–$15,000 surprise. Required by VA + USDA in most warm-climate states. Here's the 2026 cost, treatment, and negotiation framework.
2026 termite cost table
| Item | 2026 cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WDO inspection | $75–$200 | Free with most quotes |
| Spot treatment | $250–$800 | Localized infestation |
| Liquid barrier (whole-house) | $1,200–$2,500 | 10-yr warranty common |
| Bait system + monitoring | $1,000–$1,800 + $300–$500/yr | Subterranean termites |
| Tent fumigation | $1,500–$4,000 | Drywood termites, mostly CA/FL |
| Structural repair | $500–$15,000+ | Get an engineer's report |
WDO finding on your report?
HomeScore folds WDO + structural findings into a single negotiation brief — with treatment cost ranges by region.
Frequently asked
How much does a termite inspection cost?+
Standalone WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) inspection: $75–$200 in 2026. Often free when bundled with a pest-control service quote. VA and many FHA loans require a paid WDO report in Southern states.
Is a termite inspection required to buy a house?+
Required for: VA loans in 26 states (Southern + warm-climate), most USDA loans, FHA in select Southern states. Lender-required, not buyer-optional. Outside those loan types, it's recommended in any home south of the I-40 corridor and in any wood-framed home with crawl space or wood-to-soil contact.
What's the difference between active termites and damage?+
An active infestation means living termites are present — requires immediate treatment ($800–$2,500). Damage without active infestation means past activity — requires structural repair quotes ($500–$15,000+) but no urgent treatment. Always ask the WDO report to distinguish.
How much does termite treatment cost in 2026?+
Spot treatment: $250–$800. Full-house liquid barrier: $1,200–$2,500. Bait system with monitoring: $1,000–$1,800 install + $300–$500/yr. Tent fumigation (drywood termites, mostly West Coast): $1,500–$4,000.
Can termites kill a real-estate deal?+
Active infestation rarely kills deals — treatment is straightforward. Structural damage to load-bearing framing can: repairs over $10K with no clear ceiling often trigger contingency termination. Always get a structural engineer's opinion before walking, and use the engineer's report as leverage if you stay.