Service
Termite Inspection
A careful check for subterranean termite activity and damage, usually requested for a home sale rather than because of an active problem.
A termite inspection is a focused look at whether subterranean termites are working in or near a structure. An inspector checks the spots termites use and the conditions that invite them, then gives you a written report on what is active, what damage is visible, and what should be done.
Termites are far less of a concern in Minnesota than in warmer states. The cold climate holds them back, and confirmed infestations are documented mainly in the southern half of the state, from the Twin Cities metro south, where soil stays warm enough below the frost line for a colony to survive. Northern Minnesota, including Duluth, has negligible termite risk. Because of that, most Minnesota homeowners request a termite inspection for one reason: a home sale, where a buyer or lender wants a wood-destroying organism report. It is much less common here to call after seeing termites yourself.
What termite inspection covers
- The foundation, both inside and out, checked for mud tubes
- Crawl spaces, basements, and the sill plate where wood meets the foundation
- Wood close to grade: porch posts, deck ledgers, framing near soil
- Moisture conditions and wood-to-soil contact that invite termites
- Visible damage to structural and finish wood
- A written wood-destroying organism report for a home sale
What to expect
- 1
Exterior check
The inspector walks the foundation looking for mud tubes, wood-to-soil contact, and the moisture conditions termites need.
- 2
Interior and substructure
Basements, crawl spaces, and the sill plate get checked closely, since that is where subterranean termites would enter and first show.
- 3
Probing suspect wood
Wood that looks or sounds compromised is probed to confirm whether it is termite damage, carpenter ant damage, or just moisture rot.
- 4
Written report
You get a clear report on findings and recommendations, in the wood-destroying organism format when it is for a sale.
What it costs in Minnesota
A termite inspection in Minnesota generally runs $75 to $200, with most landing around $100 to $150. It is most often ordered as part of a home sale, bundled into a wood-destroying organism inspection.
Because confirmed infestations are uncommon here, full-home termite treatments are infrequent. When termites are found, it is usually a localized pocket near a basement or crawl space moisture source. A localized liquid treatment runs $300 to $700, and a bait station system runs $800 to $2,500. If a company quotes a large whole-home treatment for a Minnesota property, get a second opinion before agreeing.
Request a termite inspection quote
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Pests this service handles
The most common Minnesota pests addressed by termite inspection.
Subterranean Termite
The most destructive wood-destroying insect in North America. It lives underground and attacks wood from below, invisibly, for years before homeowners notice.
Read moreCarpenter Ant
A large black ant that excavates wood to nest. It does not eat the wood, but a long-established colony can cause real structural damage.
Read moreTermite Inspection: common questions
Do I really need a termite inspection in Minnesota?
How long does a termite inspection take?
What is the difference between termite and carpenter ant damage?
Should termite treatment in Minnesota cost thousands of dollars?
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Seasonal barrier treatments to cut mosquito pressure on a Minnesota yard through the lake-country summer.
See pricing and detailsNeed termite inspection?
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