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A standard pest inspection takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete. The inspector needs time to examine your home's interior spaces, crawl spaces, basement, attic, and exterior perimeter. For larger properties or homes with limited accessibility to certain areas, the inspection might require additional time. Having areas cleared and accessible before the inspector arrives can help ensure a thorough and efficient evaluation.

Payment responsibility varies by region and real estate market conditions. The buyer covers pest inspection costs in many transactions to protect their investment and satisfy lender requirements. However, in competitive markets, sellers might offer to pay for inspections to make their property more attractive. The final arrangement is specified in the purchase agreement, so review this document carefully and discuss options with your real estate agent.

To prepare for a comprehensive inspection, make sure the inspector can access all areas of your home. This includes noting any signs of pests you've observed, removing obstacles blocking access to attics, basements, crawl spaces, and plumbing areas, and keeping children and pets away from inspected areas. Clear away clutter from perimeter walls and ensure the inspector can easily access your home's foundation, both inside and outside.

While related, these inspections serve different purposes. A general pest inspection examines your property for evidence of various pests, including rodents, insects, and other unwanted creatures. A termite inspection specifically focuses on wood-destroying organisms like termites and carpenter ants. Some inspections, like the Wood-Destroying Organisms (WDO) inspection, specifically target termites and similar pests. If termites are a particular concern in your area, you should request the cost of a termite inspection rather than a general pest assessment.