Complete Guide to Termite Inspection in Los Angeles: What Homeowners Need to Know
- SEO Next Mile
- Nov 1
- 5 min read
Los Angeles homes—from 1920s bungalows to sleek hillside builds—are vulnerable to hidden wood damage. A termite inspection Los Angeles can catch problems early, document risk for insurance and escrow, and map the fastest path to treatment before small issues become big repairs.
This ultimate guide walks you through the inspection process, common termite species, costs, when inspections are required, local regulations, and what customers say about working with Termike.
• What happens during a termite inspection Los Angeles?
A licensed inspector checks the exterior and interior, attic/crawl, garage, and attached fences. We look for frass (pellets), discarded wings, blistered paint, mud tubes, shelter tubes, moisture issues, and structural vulnerabilities. You’ll receive photos and a written plan.
• What’s typical termite inspection cost?
Homeowner inspections are usually no-cost at Termike; escrow/WDO report pricing varies by property size and documentation needs. Get an exact quote when you book a free inspection.
• What species are common in LA?
Drywood termites and subterranean termites dominate. Each needs a different control approach (see our pages on drywood termites and subterranean termites).
• How is treatment decided?
Findings drive the plan—localized wood treatments, structural repairs, soil/colony control for subterraneans, or whole-structure fumigation for widespread drywood activity. Start at our termite treatment overview.
• Are the sources legit?
We reference the University of California IPM for species and control guidance and the California Department of Pesticide Regulation for label and safety rules.
What a Professional Inspection Includes
A thorough termite inspection Los Angeles with Termike covers:
Intake & risk interview. Renovation history, leaks, prior treatments, and swarm season activity.
Exterior sweep. Eaves, fascias, window trim, decks, fences, grade clearance, earth-to-wood contact.
Moisture & heat mapping. We use FLIR thermal scans to flag moisture anomalies that attract subterraneans and reveal hidden drywood galleries behind paint.
Attic & crawlspace. Truss tails, joists, rafter tails, plumbing/electrical penetrations, bath fan ducts, chimney interfaces.
Entry-point audit. Doors, utility penetrations, weep screeds, and expansion joints; we note sealing scope for the crew.
Targeted confirmation. Borescope checks in suspect voids; frass ID; wing venation for swarmer confirmation.
Documentation. Photo set, site map, and service options—localized treatment, damaged wood repair, soil termiticide/baiting (for subs), or fumigation for structure-wide drywood infestations.
Report & next steps. Clear pricing and timeline; same-day scheduling when needed.
Methods align with UC guidance for inspection cues and integrated pest management (see UC IPM Termites) and follow CA DPR label law for product use.
Termite Species in Los Angeles (And Why It Matters)
Drywood Termites.Live above ground in dry wood. Clues: six-sided pellets (frass) that look like sand, kick-out holes, blistered paint, and discarded wings indoors. Control ranges from localized injections to whole-structure fumigation when infestations are spread across rooms. Learn more: drywood termites.
Subterranean Termites.Nest in soil; travel through mud tubes into the structure. Look for tubes on foundations, stem walls, and garages, plus soft or hollow-sounding baseboards. Control targets the colony with soil termiticides or baits, corrected moisture, and structural gaps. Learn more: subterranean termites.
UC IPM notes that species identification determines treatment selection and expected longevity of repairs—key to protecting LA’s older building materials (see UC IPM).
Signs of Termites You Shouldn’t Ignore
Piles of frass near baseboards, window sills, or in closets.
Thin, dirt-colored shelter tubes on foundation or garage walls.
Discarded wings on floors or window sills after warm, bright days.
Blistered paint or rippled drywall hiding galleries.
Hollow-sounding wood, sagging floors, or stubborn doors.
If you spot these, schedule a termite inspection Los Angeles now through our free inspection calendar.
Termite Inspection Cost: What Drives the Price
Property size & access. Larger or multi-unit buildings require more time.
Documentation needs. Real-estate/escrow WDO forms and reinspections add admin steps.
Infestation severity. Multiple areas, attics/crawls, or advanced termite damage add scope.
Treatment path. Localized vs. full-structure fumigation or soil systems change totals.
Homeowner checks are typically no-cost at Termike; escrow reports are quoted upfront. Start with a termite inspection Los Angeles and compare options on our termite treatment page.
When Inspections Are Required or Smart
Real estate transactions (escrow). Lenders and buyers often request Section 1/2 findings.
Annual maintenance. Dry climates mask activity; yearly checks catch small issues early.
After water events. Roof, window, or plumbing leaks create attractants for subs.
Swarming season reports. Discarded wings indoors or frass piles = call now.
Agents: book pre-listing checks in areas we serve to reduce surprises and keep timelines clean.
Local Rules & Safety (Los Angeles & California)
Pesticide use is regulated by CA DPR. Licensed Branch-2/3 professionals must follow label law, personal protective equipment, and posting/notice rules (see CA DPR).
IPM first. Los Angeles guidance favors inspection-led, least-risk solutions; see UC IPM Termites for homeowner education.
Public-health context. While termites don’t transmit disease, safe cleanup and ventilation practices mirror general public-health recommendations; see LA County Vector Control for regional pest education.
Fumigation compliance. Aeration, clearance testing, and notice requirements are part of the checklist—your Termike coordinator handles scheduling and paperwork.
Have questions? Use contact us for a same-day answer.
What Happens After the Inspection (Treatments & Repairs)
Localized treatments for small drywood pockets.
Whole-structure fumigation when infestations are widely distributed.
Soil/bait systems and moisture correction for subterraneans.
Structural fixes via damaged wood repair to restore strength and resale value.
Eco-minded options are available—see eco-friendly for reduced-residue approaches.
Read the full menu on our services and compare timelines on the blog.
Why You Can Trust Termike
California Branch-2/Branch-3 licenses, NPMA membership, and 25+ years serving LA & Orange County.
Inspection tech includes FLIR thermal scans, borescopes, and a sealed entry-point audit that pairs with treatment to prevent re-invasion.
Photo-rich reports, transparent pricing, and courteous crews.
What Los Angeles Homeowners Say
“Clear photos, same-week fumigation, and they repaired the fascia the buyers flagged.”“The inspector found a hidden sub tube behind the water heater—saved our escrow.”
FAQs
How long does a termite inspection take?
Most single-family inspections finish in 45–90 minutes; larger or multi-unit buildings take longer.
Do I have to leave the house?
Not for the inspection. Some treatments—like fumigation—require temporary relocation; we manage all prep and re-entry timing.
What’s the lifespan of repairs?
Longevity depends on species, moisture, grade clearance, and maintenance. UC guidance stresses keeping wood dry and sealed (see UC IPM).
Can I get a same-day proposal?
Yes. After your termite inspection Los Angeles, we deliver a written plan with options and timelines.
Trusted Sources (Cited Above)
UC IPM—Termites (Pest Notes): identification & control guidance.
California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CA DPR): label law and applicator rules.
LA County Vector Control: regional pest education and public-health best practices.
Protect your investment with a termite inspection Los Angeles from Termike. Schedule a free inspection or call (888) 683-3592. We’ll document the problem, fix it fast, and help prevent it from coming back.
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