When it comes to home maintenance, few threats are as silent and destructive as termites. These tiny wood-eating insects are responsible for billions of dollars in property damage each year—often without homeowners even knowing there’s a problem until it’s too late. The key to protecting your home is understanding the critical distinction between termite inspection and termite treatment. While they are closely related services, each plays a different role in safeguarding your property.
Knowing the difference between a termite inspection and termite treatment—and when to use each one—could literally save you thousands of dollars in damage repair and pest control expenses. In this article, we’ll break down both services, explain their purposes, and guide you on when to schedule each.
What Is a Termite Inspection?
A termite inspection is a professional evaluation of a property to determine whether termites are present or if the home is at risk of infestation. Typically carried out by a licensed pest control expert, the inspection involves a thorough visual and sometimes tool-assisted examination of your property—inside and out.
What Happens During a Termite Inspection?
- Exterior inspection of foundations, siding, wooden structures, and crawl spaces
- Interior checks for signs of termite activity (e.g., damaged wood, frass, mud tubes)
- Use of tools like moisture meters, infrared cameras, and probes to detect unseen activity
- Identification of conducive conditions, such as wood-to-soil contact or excessive moisture
You’ll receive a detailed report after the inspection, outlining whether termites were found, the severity of any damage, and what action is recommended.
What Is Termite Treatment?
Termite treatment refers to the process of eliminating active termite infestations or preventing future ones. This step comes after an inspection confirms a problem—or proactively if you live in a high-risk area.
There are several types of termite treatment depending on the termite species, level of infestation, and your home’s structure:
Common Termite Treatment Methods
- Liquid Termiticides
Applied to soil around the foundation, forming a barrier that kills or repels termites. - Baiting Systems
Installed in the ground around the home; termites consume bait and bring it back to the colony. - Fumigation (Tent Treatment)
Used for drywood termites. The entire structure is enclosed and filled with gas to kill all termites inside. - Foam or Dust Injections
Injected directly into infested wood or wall voids to eliminate localized colonies. - Wood Treatments
Applying termiticides or borate solutions to wooden structures to repel or kill termites.
Key Differences Between Inspection and Treatment
| Aspect | Termite Inspection | Termite Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Detect termites or risks | Eliminate termites or prevent infestation |
| Timing | Before buying/selling, annually, or when signs appear | After infestation is confirmed or as prevention |
| Cost | Typically $75–$150 (sometimes free) | Ranges from $500 to $2,500+ |
| Duration | 1–2 hours | Varies: 1 hour (local) to several days (fumigation) |
| Performed By | Licensed pest inspector | Licensed pest control technician |
| Follow-Up | Written report with findings | Often includes warranty and retreatment plan |
Why Inspections Should Come First
It’s a common mistake for homeowners to skip the inspection and jump straight into treatment—either out of fear or because they want a quick fix. But that approach can lead to unnecessary costs or ineffective treatment.
Here’s why inspections matter:
- Confirm whether treatment is necessary
- Identify the termite species (different species require different methods)
- Reveal hidden damage that could require structural repair
- Prevent misdiagnosis (some signs of damage could be from other pests or moisture issues)
Even if you’re convinced you have termites, it’s critical to confirm the infestation and its extent before spending money on treatment.
When You Need a Termite Inspection
Here are situations when a termite inspection is strongly recommended:
1. Before Buying or Selling a Home
Lenders often require a Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) report before finalizing a mortgage. Even if not required, a termite inspection can protect both buyers and sellers.
2. Once a Year for Routine Maintenance
Annual inspections catch early signs of termites before damage becomes extensive. This is especially important in warm, humid climates or areas with known termite activity.
3. If You See Warning Signs
If you notice mud tubes, discarded wings, hollow wood, or small pinholes in drywall, don’t delay. These are telltale signs of an infestation.
4. After Heavy Rain or Flooding
Moisture attracts termites. After prolonged wet conditions, it’s smart to inspect your home for signs of activity.
When You Need Termite Treatment
If a professional inspection confirms a termite infestation—or identifies high-risk conditions—treatment becomes necessary.
Situations That Call for Immediate Treatment:
- Active infestation of subterranean or drywood termites
- Visible damage to support beams, flooring, or walls
- Swarmers inside the house, especially around windows or lights
- Evidence of nests in walls, attics, or crawl spaces
- Previous infestations that were not properly treated
In some high-risk regions, pest control companies also offer preventive treatments—even if no termites are found during the inspection. These are especially useful for homes built with wood framing or near wooded areas.
How Much Do Inspection and Treatment Cost?
Inspection Cost
- Standard home termite inspection: $75–$150
- Real estate transactions (WDO reports): $100–$250
- Free inspections: Offered by many companies if you proceed with treatment
Treatment Cost
- Baiting systems: $800–$1,500
- Liquid barrier treatments: $1,000–$2,500
- Fumigation (tenting): $2,000–$4,000 depending on home size
- Localized foam/dust treatments: $250–$800
Treatments often come with a warranty (usually 1–5 years), offering free re-treatments if termites return.
How to Choose the Right Provider
When looking for a termite inspection or treatment provider:
- Check for state licensing and certifications
- Look for positive customer reviews
- Ask for detailed inspection reports and written estimates
- Request information about warranties and guarantees
Be wary of companies that offer treatment without a proper inspection or push aggressive sales tactics.
Conclusion: Inspection First, Treatment if Needed
Understanding the difference between termite inspection and treatment is crucial in protecting your home. Inspections are your first line of defense—identifying problems early, often when treatment is still affordable and effective. Treatment, while vital in many cases, should only come after a proper diagnosis.
Don’t skip the inspection to save money—it could end up costing you far more in repairs. Regular inspections combined with timely treatment are the best way to keep your home termite-free and structurally sound for years to come.
