Before you take the exciting step of buying a home, it’s common practice to have any number of home inspections done. This can include a general inspection, radon inspection, pest inspection, and more. It’s important to keep in mind that what many people in real estate refer to as a "pest inspection" is actually a wood-destroying organism (WDO) or wood-destroying insect (WDI) report, which usually includes a termite inspection. Here’s what you need to know about VA termite inspections and why you may need one if applying for a VA home loan.

VA loan termite and pest inspection requirements

If you are using a VA (Veteran Affairs) loan to purchase a property or refinance an existing mortgage, it may require that the property have a VA termite inspection for the mortgage process. These requirements are intended to ensure the buyer is purchasing a safe, sanitary, and structurally sound property. Any property purchased with a VA loan must meet the VA's minimum property requirements. The VA administration requires termite and other wood-destroying insect inspections for homes that are in areas where termite infestation probability is moderate to heavy or very heavy. If you live in one of these areas, you may need to arrange for a VA termite inspection first in order to continue with the mortgage process.

If you are buying a condo or a townhome, you need to arrange a VA termite inspection. In some cases, you may be able to waive the inspection if the condo unit is second-story or higher. Different states have different requirements for condo and townhome VA loans. Make sure to check with the local VA loan center to find out which requirements apply to your case.

technician surveying

VA loan termite inspection requirements by state

While the VA mandates a termite inspection in most states, there are some states where the organization's requirements are more flexible and not as strict. These states include:

  • Alaska

  • Colorado

  • Idaho

  • Maine

  • Michigan (not required in all counties)

  • Minnesota

  • Montana

  • New Hampshire (not required in all counties)

  • New York (not required in all counties)

  • North Dakota

  • Oregon

  • South Dakota

  • Vermont (not required in all counties)

  • Washington

  • Wisconsin (not required in all counties)

  • Wyoming

If your state isn't on this list, a VA termite inspection for a mortgage may be a requirement. You can find a full list of VA loan termite inspection requirements for VA home loans by state on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. It’s important to keep in mind that just because the VA does not require a VA pest inspection or termite inspection in some states does not mean that termites and other wood-destroying insects are not present. It’s a good idea to have an inspection report before buying a house whether the VA requires it or not.

What pests does the VA loan inspection cover?

While termites often come to mind when discussing wood-destroying insects, they are one of several types of wood-destroying insects that can cause considerable damage to a home. A professional VA pest inspection will include examining the visible, accessible interior and exterior of the home to look for wood damage and to help identify the cause. Depending on where the home you intend to purchase is located in the U.S., your inspector may look for:

Most states require a wood-destroying insect and organism report (WDIOR) or a wood-destroying insect report (WDIR). The name of the report can vary by state. This report is created after a VA pest inspection of the home for active termites or other wood-destroying insects.

technician surveying attic

How a pest inspection for a VA loan works

During the inspection, professionals examine both the exterior and interior accessible areas, including attics and crawl spaces, for signs of wood-destroying insects and conditions conducive to their presence. This examination aims to identify the insect species present and propose effective treatments. A detailed report or certificate from this inspection, valid for 90 days, outlines the findings and recommendations but is not a guarantee against future infestations.

Under VA loan guidelines, the buyer is not typically responsible for the cost of a VA pest inspection (specifically a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection) for a first mortgage in most states, though this rule changes for refinancing, where VA borrowers may pay the fee. The lender will need the termite inspection invoice to identify who covered the cost as part of the loan documentation. It's advised to check with the VA Regional Loan Center for specific VA termite inspection cost details and payment exceptions in the home's location.

technician outside with customers

Help protect your home with a termite inspection

Regardless of whether or not you're required to have a VA termite inspection, it’s highly recommended. This applies to not only the home-buying process, but to routine maintenance as a homeowner. In fact, it's recommended that you have your home annually inspected for termite activity, as they can be constantly feeding and foraging around your neighborhood. Skipping inspections can lead to costly treatments and repairs for unseen infestations, affecting both buyers and current homeowners. Investing in a home is a major financial decision, and ensuring it's free from pests like termites is essential.

If you want to have a better idea of what might be going on beneath the surface of your future home, schedule a free termite inspection with Terminix.

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