Best Termite Inspection in Georgia Ranked

A termite inspection is a critical evaluation of a property for evidence of wood-destroying organisms. In Georgia, this process is often formalized as a Wood Infestation Inspection Report (WIIR), a document required by law during most real estate transactions. These inspections matter because they protect your investment by identifying active infestations, past damage, and conditions that could lead to future problems. This guide will help you understand the process, requirements, and what to look for when seeking a qualified professional to conduct this essential service.

Aiken Pest Control, Inc.

2739 Wagener Rd, Aiken, SC 29801

Aiken Pest Control, Inc. has been providing pest and termite control services in Augusta, GA, and the surrounding areas of South Carolina for over 50 years. The company offers comprehensive pest control solutions for both residential and commercial properties, including termite inspections and treatments. As a local business with deep roots in the community, Aiken Pest Control is known for its thorough inspections and effective pest management plans.

5.0

5.0k Reviews

Bigham Pest Services

1141 Monticello St SW, Covington, GA 30014

Bigham Pest Services is a family-owned pest control company based near Atlanta, GA, serving Covington and nearby communities. Since 2007, they have provided pest control solutions for residential and commercial properties, including bed bug treatment, termite inspections, and mosquito control. Their services cover a range of pests with a focus on effective extermination and prevention.

5.0

555 Reviews

Arrow Exterminators

5591 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd Bldg 1300, Ste 20, Dunwoody, GA 30338

Arrow Exterminators is a pest control company serving Atlanta, GA, specializing in the management of various pests including ants, termites, mosquitoes, rodents, and wildlife. They provide inspection and removal services for stinging insects like wasps and hornets, as well as control for fleas, ticks, and fire ants. Their expertise includes handling subterranean termite colonies and addressing rodent infestations that pose health and structural risks. The company also manages wildlife intrusions from animals such as squirrels and raccoons, which can cause damage and contamination in homes.

5.0

327 Reviews

David M Parker Exterminating

augusta

David M Parker Exterminating is a family-owned pest control company serving Augusta, GA, and the Central Savannah River Area. Since 1974, they have provided pest control services for both residential and commercial properties, addressing issues such as termites, mosquitoes, rodents, and other pests. The company uses advanced techniques to eliminate infestations and offers ongoing protection to help prevent future problems.

5.0

157 Reviews

Anthem Pest Control

1710 Cumberland Point Dr Suite 8, Marietta, GA 30067

Anthem Pest Control offers pest control services in Atlanta, GA, focusing on safe and eco-friendly treatments for a variety of pests including cockroaches, rodents, termites, mosquitoes, and more. They emphasize family-safe methods and target pests at their source to protect homes effectively. Anthem Pest Control is recognized for its extensive experience and has received numerous positive reviews for its pest, termite, and mosquito control services. Their approach includes a satisfaction guarantee with free re-services to ensure lasting pest-free results.

4.9

3.9k Reviews

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Understanding the Wood Infestation Inspection Report (WIIR)

In Georgia, the standard termite inspection is specifically known as a Wood Infestation Inspection Report. This isn't just a casual check; it's a legally defined document governed by state regulations ¹. Its primary purpose is to disclose the presence or absence of Wood Destroying Organisms (WDOs) during the transfer of real property. Lenders almost universally require a clear WIIR before approving a mortgage, making it a non-negotiable step in buying or selling a home ^{2 3}.

The report must be completed by a Georgia-certified pest control operator and is typically valid if issued within 30 days of the real estate closing ^{1 3}. It provides a snapshot of the property's condition regarding specific threats.

What Inspectors Look For

A certified inspector will conduct a thorough visual examination of the accessible areas of your home, focusing on places where wood contacts soil or moisture accumulates. The official WIIR in Georgia is mandated to inspect for and report on several specific organisms ^{4 1}:

• Subterranean Termites: The most common and destructive termite in Georgia, which build mud tubes to travel from soil to wood.
• Drywood Termites: Less common but can infest wood without ground contact, often found in attic framing or furniture.
• Wood-Boring Beetles: This includes pests like powderpost beetles and old house borers, which leave small exit holes and fine frass (sawdust).
• Wood-Decaying Fungi: This covers wood rot, including brown rot, white rot, and water-conducting fungi that break down wood structure.

It's important to note that the WIIR does not cover mold or mildew, as these are considered separate issues ⁴.

The Inspection Process and Report Details

A proper inspection is meticulous. The inspector will examine the interior and exterior of the structure, including basements, crawl spaces, attics, and around the foundation. They will use tools like moisture meters, flashlights, and probing instruments to check for softened wood or hidden damage.

The resulting WIIR is a detailed document. State guidelines emphasize that it must be written in clear, simple language so homeowners can easily understand the findings ⁴. Key components include:

• Detailed Diagram: A drawing of the home's floor plan, indicating the location of any active or previous infestations, damage, or conducive conditions ^{4 3}.
• Clear Descriptions: Any infestation found must be specifically described, and the description must match the location marked on the diagram ⁴.
• Notation of Inaccessible Areas: If an area like a locked crawl space, a finished attic, or a blocked garage cannot be inspected, the report must explicitly list these locations. A general statement like "some areas were inaccessible" is not sufficient under Georgia rules ⁴.
• Conducive Conditions: The inspector must report any conditions that could lead to a future WDO problem, such as earth-to-wood contact, excessive moisture, or wood debris near the foundation ⁵.

Legal Requirements and Guarantees

Georgia law attaches important guarantees to the WIIR to protect the homeowner. If the report shows no active infestation, the inspecting company provides a 90-day guarantee. This means if any of the reported WDOs are found in an accessible, inspected area within 90 days of the report date, the company will treat the infestation at no additional cost ^{1 6}.

Furthermore, if the report notes "conducive conditions" (like a leaking pipe or soil touching siding), the company is obligated to re-inspect and ensure those conditions are corrected free of charge for up to one year from the report date ⁵. This provides significant ongoing protection for new homeowners.

Costs and Treatment Considerations

The fee for a stand-alone Wood Infestation Inspection Report in Georgia typically ranges from $75 to $200, though some companies may offer it for free if you sign a contract for a treatment plan or a long-term protection bond ^{7 8 9}.

If the inspection reveals an active termite problem, treatment costs will be an additional consideration. Prices vary based on the method and the home's size:

• Localized or Spot Treatments: For a small, contained infestation, costs might range from $300 to $800 ^{7 8}.
• Full Liquid Termiticide Barriers: A standard treatment for an average home can range from $500 to over $2,500 ^{7 10}.
• Baiting Systems: Installation and monitoring of in-ground bait stations often involve an initial installation fee plus annual monitoring costs.

Following treatment, many homeowners opt for a retreatment bond or warranty. This is a service contract where the company guarantees to retreat if termites return, often for an annual fee starting around $399. A more comprehensive repair bond, which also covers damage repair, is available at a higher cost ⁶.

Choosing a Qualified Inspector in Georgia

Given the legal and financial implications, selecting the right professional is crucial.

• Certification is Key: Always verify the inspector is a Georgia-certified pest control operator. You can ask for their state license number.
• Experience and Reputation: Look for established companies with strong local reviews and a reputation for thoroughness.
• Ask About the Process: A reputable inspector will be happy to explain what their inspection covers, how long it will take, and what their report will include.
• Get Clarity on Guarantees: Understand the terms of the 90-day WIIR guarantee and any longer-term bond options they offer.
• Compare Detailed Quotes: If treatment is needed, get detailed written quotes from multiple companies that specify the treatment method, square footage covered, and warranty terms.

A termite inspection is one of the most important evaluations a Georgia property will undergo. By understanding the regulated process, the guarantees involved, and how to choose a qualified provider, you can ensure your home is protected from these destructive pests.

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