A termite inspection quote should tell you what areas will be inspected and whether a written wood-destroying pest and organism report is included. Fixr’s national cost guide lists $150-$350 for a one-time inspection. That is a national reference, not a San Diego price survey or a Pest Pros quote. The independent company sets your price.

Compare the inspection scope before the price

Ask each company to put these items in its quote:

  • Which buildings and accessible areas are included, including the attic, crawlspace and detached structures.
  • Whether you receive a written WDO report or only an estimate for treatment.
  • How inaccessible areas and any recommended further inspection will be recorded.
  • Whether a later reinspection or treatment is priced separately.

A low inspection price doesn’t tell you whether two companies are quoting the same scope. Tell the company if you need a report for a property transaction, and give it the deadline before booking.

What’s included in a California WDO report

A WDO inspection looks beyond termites. California’s inspection-report requirements cover wood-destroying pests and organisms, evidence of infestation or infection, and conditions likely to encourage them.

The report includes a diagram of the inspected structure, findings and corrective recommendations. It must identify inaccessible or uninspected areas. Those limits matter: a report is not proof that every concealed space is free of damage.

For this work, California requires an inspection by a licensed Branch 3 field representative or operator employed by a registered company. Ask who will perform the inspection and verify the company through the Structural Pest Control Board.

When a home sale needs an inspection report

A termite report is not automatically required for every California home sale. The requirement can come from the purchase contract or financing conditions. Civil Code Section 1099 addresses delivery of a report when the contract or financing requires one.

The Structural Pest Control Board says most lending institutions require a WDO inspection before financing a California home loan. Your lender and escrow team should confirm the report, timing and any clearance they require. Confirm who pays for inspection and corrective work in the transaction’s agreed terms.

A report’s findings and a lender’s closing conditions are separate questions. Ask the inspector to explain evidence of infestation or infection and conditions that could lead to it. Then ask your lender or escrow team which findings must be addressed for your transaction. Don’t assume every recommendation must be completed before every sale.

Treatment and reinspection are separate decisions

If the inspector recommends work, request an itemized proposal tied to the findings. The treatment method depends on the pest and the extent and location of the infestation. Compare that proposal with the termite treatment options and ask what follow-up is included.

California’s inspection-report rules describe a right to seek a second opinion. A second company may recommend a different correction for the same finding. Ask each company to explain the reason for its approach before agreeing to treatment.

When to schedule another inspection

Ask the inspector to recommend a schedule based on the property’s findings and any service agreement. New suspected termite signs warrant a call even if a routine inspection is not yet due. For a sale, confirm the lender’s timing requirements rather than relying on a universal report-expiration date.

Arrange an inspection in San Diego County

Pest Pros San Diego matches homeowners with independent licensed companies. Tell us whether you’re checking suspected activity or arranging a report for a sale. The company confirms the scope, price and appointment with you directly.

Request a termite inspection or read about our termite inspection referral service.