Home-sale inspections

Who pays for the termite inspection — buyer or seller?

How the cost splits by loan type and local custom, and who covers treatment if it's needed — 2026.

✓ Reviewed June 27, 2026 · sources: VA, HUD/FHA, local custom

By Andrii Boltag, Founder & Editor · Reviewed by [licensed pro — name & license # to add] · Last verified

It is negotiated and varies by local custom and loan type. On conventional and many state-required sales the seller usually pays the inspection; on FHA the buyer often pays; and since 2022 a VA buyer is allowed to pay too.

If active infestation is found, treatment usually falls to the seller (or a credit is negotiated), because a clear report is needed to close.

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Who pays, by loan type

Who typically pays the termite/WDO inspection — US, 2026 (negotiable; varies locally)
Loan / situationWho usually pays
VA loanNegotiable; since 2022 (Circular 26-22-11) the buyer may pay the fee
FHA loanOften the buyer
Conventional / state-requiredOften the seller
CashWhoever orders it (usually the buyer, optional)

Who pays for treatment

The inspection and the treatment are separate costs. If the report finds active infestation, treatment is usually the seller's responsibility, or the parties negotiate a credit — because lenders generally need a clear report to close. Inspection runs about $75–$175; treatment from a few hundred to several thousand dollars (see the Cost Index).

Practical tip

Order the WDI report early — it is generally valid about 90 days. Put who-pays for both inspection and any treatment in the purchase contract so there are no surprises at closing.

Common questions

Does the buyer or seller pay for the termite inspection?
It is negotiated and varies by local custom. On conventional and state-required sales the seller usually pays the inspection; on FHA loans the buyer often pays. Since 2022, a VA buyer is also allowed to pay the fee. Put it in writing in the purchase contract.
Who pays for termite treatment if the home fails?
Treatment for an active infestation usually falls to the seller, or the parties negotiate a credit, because lenders generally need a clear report to close. Inspection and treatment are separate costs.
How much does the termite inspection cost?
A termite/WDO inspection typically costs about $75 to $175. Many pest companies offer a free inspection hoping to win the treatment job. See the Cost Index for current ranges and sources.

Sources