What exactly do inspectors look for during a termite inspection in Bellevue?

Inspectors look for direct evidence of termites, such as mud tubes, damaged or hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings, and termite droppings (frass). They also identify conditions that attract termites, including wood-to-soil contact, excess moisture from leaks or poor drainage, and mulch piled against the foundation .

How long does a typical termite inspection take?

For an average single-family home in Bellevue, a comprehensive termite inspection usually takes between 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the size of the home and the complexity of its layout .

Is a termite inspection required when buying a home in Washington?

While not always legally required by the state, most mortgage lenders will require a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection report before finalizing a loan. This is especially common for VA and FHA loans .

What's the difference between a termite inspection and a general home inspection?

A general home inspection provides a broad overview of a home's systems and structure. A termite inspection is a specialized, in-depth examination conducted by a pest management professional focused solely on evidence of wood-destroying insects and the conditions that support them .

Can I perform my own termite inspection?

While homeowners can certainly look for obvious signs like mud tubes or damaged wood, a professional inspection is recommended. Trained inspectors know where to look for subtle signs and hidden damage that are easy for an untrained eye to miss .

What happens if termites are found during the inspection?

The inspector will note the findings and extent of the infestation in the report. They will typically recommend a treatment plan from a licensed pest control company to eliminate the termites and may suggest repairs for any damage found .

How often should I get my Bellevue home inspected for termites?

Many experts recommend an annual termite inspection, especially for older homes or properties with known moisture issues. At a minimum, having a professional inspection every few years is a wise preventative measure .

Pest Control in Bellevue, WA,

A termite inspection is a specialized evaluation of a property to detect the presence or evidence of wood-destroying organisms like termites and carpenter ants. This service is critical for protecting your home's structural integrity and value, as termites can cause extensive, costly damage that is often hidden from plain sight. For Bellevue homeowners and buyers, understanding the local inspection process helps you find qualified professionals to assess your property's risk and recommend necessary protective measures.

Cascade Pest Control

1420 5th Ave Suite 2260, Seattle, WA 98101

Cascade Pest Control is a family-owned pest control company serving Seattle, WA, and nearby areas. Established in 1979, they specialize in environmentally safe pest and rodent control services tailored to the unique needs of homes and businesses in the region. Their licensed technicians provide comprehensive inspections and treatments for common Seattle pests such as ants, spiders, rodents, termites, and wasps. Cascade Pest Control offers rodent removal and prevention, including damage remediation and exclusion services, along with ongoing pest prevention maintenance programs to protect properties year-round.

5.0

809 Reviews

Rambo Total Pest Control

401 Olympia Ave NE UNIT 52, Renton, WA 98056

Rambo Total Pest Control is a pest control company serving Seattle, WA, with expertise in managing a wide range of pests including rodents, ants, spiders, stinging insects, and termites. They offer comprehensive pest control services tailored to both residential and commercial properties, focusing on effective inspection, treatment, and follow-up to ensure long-term pest management. Their skilled technicians are trained to handle challenging infestations and provide customized plans based on thorough property assessments. Rambo Total Pest Control emphasizes clear communication and expert service throughout the pest control process.

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633 Reviews

A-Pro Home Inspection Tacoma WA

tacoma

A-Pro Home Inspection Tacoma WA offers comprehensive home inspection services in Tacoma, WA, including termite and wood-destroying organism inspections. Their services cover a wide range of inspections such as pre-purchase, seller, maintenance, FHA, HUD, and new construction phase inspections. They utilize advanced capabilities like drone roof inspections and thermal imaging to provide detailed assessments. Established in 2018, A-Pro also offers specialized inspections including sewer scope, mold, radon, carbon monoxide testing, and commercial building inspections. Their inspectors hold a Structural Pest Inspector License and provide reports that help buyers, sellers, and homeowners make informed decisions.

5.0

522 Reviews

Rambo Total Pest Control

tacoma

Rambo Total Pest Control is a pest control company serving Tacoma, WA, and the surrounding Pierce County area. Established in 2007, they offer comprehensive pest management services for both residential and commercial properties, including rodent control, ant control, termite inspections, stinging insect removal, and cockroach control. Their technicians provide thorough inspections and customized treatment plans, focusing on long-term pest prevention and clear communication throughout the process. Rambo Total Pest Control is equipped to handle a wide range of pests common to the Pacific Northwest, such as rodents, ants, spiders, and stinging insects.

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377 Reviews

Rambo Total Pest Control

tacoma

Rambo Total Pest Control provides pest management services in Tacoma, WA, addressing common local pests such as rodents, ants, stinging insects, spiders, termites, and wood-boring beetles. The company offers comprehensive pest control solutions for both residential and commercial properties, including thorough inspections and customized treatment plans. Their technicians are trained to handle challenging infestations and provide ongoing follow-up to ensure long-term pest control. Rambo Total Pest Control focuses on clear communication and expert service tailored to the unique pest challenges in Tacoma's environment.

5.0

196 Reviews

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What a Termite Inspection Covers in Bellevue

In the Pacific Northwest, a professional termite check is designed to identify the specific threats common to our region. Inspectors are primarily looking for two types of termites: subterranean and drywood. Subterranean termites are the most common in Bellevue; they live in the soil and build distinctive mud tubes to access wood above ground, thriving in moist conditions ¹ ² ³. Drywood termites, while less common, infest dry wood directly and leave behind piles of fecal pellets, known as frass ¹ ⁴ ⁵. A thorough inspection also includes checking for carpenter ants, which excavate wood to create nests and can cause similar structural damage ¹ ⁴.

The goal of this wood-destroying organism inspection is to catch an infestation early, before significant damage occurs. Inspectors use their expertise to identify not just active colonies, but also conducive conditions that could attract termites in the future, such as excessive moisture or wood in direct contact with soil ¹ ⁶.

The Inspection Process: A Step-by-Step Look

A comprehensive termite evaluation follows a systematic approach to ensure no area is overlooked. Here's what you can typically expect when a professional inspects your Bellevue home.

1. Exterior Examination

The inspector begins with a detailed walkaround of your property's perimeter. Key areas of focus include:

Foundation: Checking for cracks, gaps, and mud tubes-the pencil-sized tunnels subterranean termites build for travel ² ⁷ ⁸.
Wood-to-Soil Contact: Identifying any structural wood, like siding or deck posts, that touches the soil, providing a direct bridge for termites ¹ ⁶ ⁴.
Landscaping and Drainage: Evaluating mulch beds near the foundation, overgrown vegetation, and areas where water pools, as these create the damp environment termites love ¹ ⁷ ⁶.
Exterior Wood: Looking for signs of damage, blistering, or hollow-sounding wood on eaves, trim, and window frames ⁴ ⁸.

2. Interior Investigation

The inspector then moves inside to examine vulnerable areas:

Attics, Crawlspaces, and Basements: These are prime inspection zones. Inspectors look for mud tubes, damaged wood, termite droppings (frass), and discarded wings from swarmers ¹ ² ⁷.
Moisture-Prone Areas: Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are closely examined for leaks under sinks, around appliances, and in walls, as moisture attracts pests ⁷ ⁶.
Structural and Finish Wood: The inspector will tap on baseboards, window sills, door frames, and cabinet kickplates, listening for a hollow sound that indicates internal damage ⁷ ⁴ ⁸.

3. Reporting and Documentation

After the assessment, the inspector provides a detailed report. For real estate transactions, this is often a standardized Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) or NPMA-33 report, which is required by many lenders, especially for VA and FHA loans ⁹ ¹⁰ ¹¹. This document outlines any evidence found, areas inspected, and recommendations for treatment or repairs.

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Understanding the Cost of an Inspection

The price for a termite inspection in Bellevue can vary based on several factors. For a standard inspection connected to a real estate transaction, homeowners can generally expect to pay between $100 and $200 ⁹ ¹⁰ ¹². This fee typically includes the written WDI report needed for lenders.

Several elements influence the final cost:

Home Size and Layout: Larger homes or those with complex designs, multiple crawlspaces, or finished basements may take longer to inspect.
Type of Inspection: A basic inspection may cost less than one that includes a detailed report for a mortgage closing. VA loan inspections, which have specific state requirements, might also affect pricing ¹⁰ ¹¹.
Company and Service Scope: Prices can vary between providers. Some may offer bundled services that include a general pest inspection alongside the termite check.

Why Bellevue Homes Need Regular Termite Checks

Bellevue's climate, with its ample rainfall, creates ideal conditions for moisture-loving subterranean termites. Regular inspections are a key part of preventative home maintenance. Catching an infestation early can prevent thousands of dollars in structural repairs. For home buyers, an inspection is a non-negotiable step in the due diligence process, ensuring you are making a sound investment. Even if you are not buying or selling, scheduling a periodic termite assessment provides peace of mind and protects your property's long-term value ¹ ⁶.

Preparing for Your Inspection

To ensure the inspection is as thorough and efficient as possible, homeowners can take a few simple steps:

Clear Access: Ensure the inspector can easily access your attic entry, crawlspace door, basement, and garage interior.
Move Items: Pull furniture and stored items away from walls in basements, garages, and closets.
Trim Vegetation: Cut back shrubs, vines, and tree branches that are touching the house's exterior.
Address Moisture: Fix any minor leaks and ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.

Taking these steps helps the inspector cover every potential problem area without obstruction.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

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Termite Inspections - https://www.georgia.brickkicker.com/termite-inspections/ ↩ ↩² ↩³
Facts about subterranean termites - https://www.clarkpest.com/residential-service-blog-old/subterranean-termite-facts ↩
Your Essential Guide to Termite and Pest Inspection - https://westpestco.com/termite-and-pest-inspection/ ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵
Termite Inspections: What to Expect and How to Prepare - https://www.actionpestcontrol.com/2025/01/15/termite-inspections-what-to-expect-and-how-to-prepare/ ↩
What Does a Termite Inspector Look For? | Orkin - https://www.orkin.com/pests/termites/what-a-termite-inspector-does ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵
What Happens During a Termite Inspection - Terminix - https://www.terminix.com/termite-control/inspection/ ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵
Termite Infestations: What Termite Inspectors Look For - https://www.callnorthwest.com/2024/12/termite-infestations-what-termite-inspectors-look-for/ ↩ ↩² ↩³
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost in 2026? - LawnStarter - https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/cost/termite-inspection-price/ ↩ ↩²
Termite Inspections for Homebuyers: Requirements & Costs - https://www.freedommortgage.com/learning-center/articles/termite-inspection-home-purchase ↩ ↩² ↩³
VA Termite and Pest Inspections: List of Requirements By State - https://www.veteransunited.com/valoans/va-termite-pest-inspections/ ↩ ↩²
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost? | Northwest Exterminating - https://www.callnorthwest.com/2019/01/how-much-does-a-termite-inspection-cost/ ↩

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