Buying a home with a VA loan is a significant step for many veterans transitioning into civilian life. While it’s exciting to look for that perfect place, there’s one critical requirement you shouldn’t overlook: VA termite inspections.
Far from being a mere formality, these inspections protect you from costly damage caused by wood-destroying pests. According to Orkin, termites damage over 600,000 U.S. homes every year, leading to nearly $5 billion in repair costs. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helps safeguard your investment by requiring termite inspections in regions where termite activity is common.
In this guide, we’ll break down what VA termite inspections are, where they’re required, who pays for them, and how you can be fully prepared. If you’re a veteran homebuyer ready to use your VA loan benefits, this information will help you avoid hidden surprises and ensure a smooth path to homeownership.
In this Article
Importance of VA Termite Inspections
VA termite inspections ensure homes meet Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), confirming safety and structural integrity by detecting wood-destroying pests, protecting veterans from costly repairs post-purchase.
- Verifies homes are free of active infestations.
- Prevents unexpected repair expenses after move-in.
- Ensures compliance with VA loan standards.
- Learn more at VA MPRs.
- Details at VA Property Requirements.
Which States Require Termite Inspections as of 2025
| Mandatory States | Mandatory States | Discretionary States |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Kentucky | Alaska |
| Arizona | Louisiana | Colorado |
| Arkansas | Maryland | Idaho |
| California | Massachusetts | Maine |
| Connecticut | Mississippi | Minnesota |
| Delaware | Missouri | Montana |
| Florida | Nebraska | North Dakota |
| Georgia | Nevada | Oregon |
| Hawaii | New Jersey | South Dakota |
| Illinois | New Mexico | Vermont* |
| Indiana | North Carolina | Washington |
| Iowa | Ohio | Wyoming |
| Kansas | Oklahoma | |
| Pennsylvania | South Carolina | |
| Rhode Island | Tennessee | |
| Texas | Utah | |
| Virginia | Washington, D.C. | |
| West Virginia |
*In Vermont, inspections are only required in Bennington and Windham Counties.
VA Move-In Ready Standard
The VA’s move-in ready standard requires homes to meet MPRs, ensuring safety and structural soundness, with termite inspections preventing costly pest-related issues for veterans.
- Guarantees livable, hazard-free homes.
- Identifies termite damage before purchase.
- Saves veterans from major repair costs.
- Learn more at VA Loans Overview.
- Details at VA Purchase Loans.
When VA Termite Inspections Are Required
VA termite inspections are mandatory in high-risk termite areas or when appraisers suspect pest issues, ensuring homes meet VA standards, except for IRRRL refinances.
- Required in “Moderate to Heavy” termite zones.
- Triggered by appraiser-detected wood damage.
- IRRRL loans often exempt unless damage is visible.
- Details at VA Circular 26-22-11.
- Explore at VA IRRRL Program.
VA Termite Inspection Requirements by State
Over 35 states mandate VA termite inspections due to high pest risk, while others require them only if appraisers flag issues or specific counties enforce them.
- Mandatory in states like Florida and Texas.
- Discretionary in states like Alaska and Maine.
- County-specific rules in Michigan and New York.
- Check VA Housing Assistance.
- Details at VA Lenders Handbook.
Mandatory Termite Inspection States
High-risk states require VA termite inspections to ensure homes are pest-free and meet loan eligibility standards.
- Includes Alabama, California, and 33 others.
- Based on VA Termite Infestation Probability Map.
- Protects buyers from hidden pest damage.
Discretionary Inspection States
In 14 states, VA termite inspections are only required if appraisers identify potential pest issues, reducing costs in low-risk areas.
- Includes Colorado, Oregon, and Wyoming.
- Triggered by visible signs of wood damage.
- Minimizes unnecessary inspection expenses.
County-Specific Termite Inspection Rules
Certain states mandate inspections in high-risk counties, ensuring targeted protection against termite damage for VA loan properties.
- Michigan: 23 counties like Berrien.
- New York: 17 counties like Suffolk.
- Learn more at VA Loan Types.
Condo Termite Inspection Requirements
Low-rise condos in high-risk areas require termite inspections, while high-rise condos are typically exempt unless appraisers note pest issues.
- Low-rise (≤5 stories): Mandatory in high-risk zones.
- High-rise (>5 stories): Exempt unless damage detected.
- Ensures condo safety for VA buyers.
Who Pays for VA Termite Inspections?
VA termite inspections ($100–$200) are typically seller-paid, but buyers can cover costs since June 2024, offering flexibility to secure home purchases.
- Sellers often pay to expedite sales.
- Buyers may pay if sellers refuse.
- Lenders or agents sometimes cover costs.
- Learn more at VA Circular 26-22-11.
- Details at VA Closing Costs.
Cost of VA Termite Inspections
VA termite inspections cost $100–$400, with repairs ($500–$2,000) typically seller-funded, ensuring homes meet VA standards before loan approval.
- Standard inspection: $100–$200.
- Larger homes: Up to $400.
- Treatment costs: $500–$2,000 if needed.
- Details at VA Appraisal Guidelines.
How VA Termite Inspections Are Conducted
Licensed professionals inspect homes for termites, issuing an NPMA-33 report valid for 90 days, ensuring VA loan properties are pest-free and compliant.
- Examines attics, crawlspaces, and wood structures.
- Identifies mud tubes and wood damage.
- Scheduled with VA appraisal for efficiency.
- Learn more at VA Appraisal Process.
- Details at VA Purchase Loans.
Meeting VA Minimum Property Requirements
VA MPRs mandate homes be safe, structurally sound, and pest-free, requiring termite issues to be resolved before loan approval, typically at seller’s expense.
- Safe: No active pest infestations.
- Sound: Intact structural wood elements.
- Sanitary: Free of pest droppings.
- Learn more at VA MPRs.
- Details at VA Property Requirements.
Handling Termite Infestations
If termites are found, sellers typically fund treatment ($500–$2,000) and repairs ($1,000–$5,000), with re-inspection ensuring VA loan approval.
- Treatment: Uses chemical or bait stations.
- Repairs: Replaces damaged wood structures.
- Re-inspection: $50–$150 to verify fixes.
- Details at VA Loan Closing.
VA vs. Conventional Loan Inspection Costs
VA inspections ($100–$200) are often seller-paid, unlike optional conventional inspections where buyers typically cover costs, giving VA buyers a financial edge.
- VA: Sellers usually fund repairs.
- Conventional: Buyers negotiate repair costs.
- VA ensures pest-free properties.
- Details at VA Appraisal Guidelines.
| Loan Type | Inspection Cost | Who Pays | Repairs |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA | $100–$200 | Buyer/Seller | Seller typically covers |
| Conventional | $100–$200 (optional) | Buyer | Buyer/Seller negotiates |
DIY Preparation Tips for Sellers
Sellers can ensure VA termite inspection success by checking wood, clearing debris, and conducting pre-inspections to avoid delays in the sale process.
- Inspect wood for hollow sounds.
- Remove mulch or firewood near home.
- Hire professional for pre-inspection.
- Details at VA Loan Types.
- Explore at VA Regional Loan Center.
FAQs About VA Termite Inspections
What is a VA termite inspection?
A VA termite inspection is a professional check for termites and other wood-destroying pests. It ensures the property meets the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements.
Which states require VA termite inspections?
Over 35 states (plus Washington, D.C.) require termite inspections for VA loans. In other states, the inspection may be discretionary unless the appraiser sees signs of damage.
Who pays for a VA termite inspection?
As of June 2022, veterans may pay for the inspection themselves. However, many sellers still offer to cover this $100–$200 expense.
How much does a VA termite inspection cost?
Inspections generally range from $100–$200, depending on home size and location. Costs can increase if repairs are needed.
What happens if termites are found?
The seller typically covers the cost of treatment ($500–$2,000) and repairs ($1,000–$5,000). After treatment, a re-inspection is done to ensure the home is termite-free.
Can I skip a VA termite inspection?
VA Streamline refinances (IRRRLs) usually don’t require it, but a purchase loan in a high-risk area definitely does.
How long does a VA termite inspection take?
Most inspections last 1–2 hours, with a follow-up report in a few days. If termites are found, expect repairs and a re-inspection before closing.
Are repairs required after a VA termite inspection?
Yes. If there’s an active infestation or significant damage, the VA won’t approve the loan until the problem is fixed.
Next Steps and Additional Resources
- Learn More About VA Loans: Our Comprehensive VA Loan Guide
- Check the VA Termite Map: VA.gov for the latest termite infestation probability information.
- Contact Your State Veterans Affairs Office: They can offer localized guidance and assistance.
Using your VA loan benefit should feel empowering—not overwhelming. VA termite inspections are designed to protect your biggest investment and help you move into a home that’s structurally sound and safe. By understanding the requirements, costs, and processes, you’ll be ready to navigate any termite-related hurdles on your journey to homeownership.
Levi Rodgers is a nationally recognized real estate expert and U.S. Army Green Beret (Ret.) who writes about homeownership, VA loans, and Veteran-focused real estate strategies. After his military service, Levi built one of the top-performing real estate teams in the country, helping thousands of military families navigate the path to homeownership. His writing draws from firsthand experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to serving those who serve. Levi simplifies complex housing topics and offers real-world guidance on credit, financing, and smart real estate moves — especially for Veterans and first-time buyers.
