Home Inspection vs. Home Pest Inspection
Once a home goes under contract, whether you’re buying or selling, the offer is contingent on the home inspection. Home inspectors are looking for hazards such as faulty wiring, out-of-code additions, safety issues, or structural defects. However, when it comes to pests – what they look for is very limited. In fact, they really only mainly look for evidence of termites. If there is no clear sign of rot or moisture, they likely won’t even bring up pest inspection at all.
Just as a home inspector, a pest inspector must also be certified. Pest inspectors undergo through training in pest identification, risk factors for infestations, and subtle signs of exiting problems. There are many signs a home inspector would not know that a pest expert would and vice-versa.
Does Texas law require pest inspection before closing?
While many states require certain pest inspections prior to closing – Texas requires none at all. In fact, you can buy or sell a home “As Is” condition. While some homes sold in this manner may be a bargain to some investors, it comes to some caveats. You as the buyer accept all liability for any faults, not the seller. Once you make your offer and close, the problems if any are yours and yours alone.
Most mortgage lenders in Texas require a pest inspection – at least for termites. You will also likely need to show proof that the seller corrected any issues prior to the loan approved.
Real Estate Inspection Process
Step 1: Comprehensive Inspection of Property
A visual inspection of all readily accessible areas of the home will be completed by a certified pest control technician. Our technicians will look for visible evidence of live insects, dead insects, exit holes or staining caused by insects, as well as other signs of activity and any visible damage to the structure created by insects
Step 2: Documentation & Treatment Recommendation
Upon completion of our inspection, you’ll be provided with a completed report which documents our findings. If insects are detected, or damages to the property caused by insects are discovered, a recommendation will be made for how to best treat and control the pests.