Termite (WDI) Inspection in Austin, TX — Do You Need One to Buy or Sell?
Texas rules, Austin specifics (incl. new construction), cost and a free checker — 2026.
✓ Reviewed June 23, 2026 · sources: VA, Texas Dept. of Agriculture, NPMAYes for VA loans — required statewide in Texas. An Austin (Travis County) VA purchase needs a Texas WDI report; FHA/conventional only if the appraiser flags pest evidence.
Cash purchase? Not required — but worthwhile, with subterranean termites active across Central Texas.
Do I need a termite/WDI inspection in Austin?
Texas = statewide VA-required. 2 questions. Informational — confirm with your lender.
⚠ Guidance only — not an official determination. Always confirm with your lender/insurer and the official source (.gov) before acting. See Disclaimer.
Buying new construction in Austin? Austin has heavy new-build volume — for a brand-new home ask the builder for the termite pretreatment (soil treatment) documentation; a Texas WDI report (Form NPMA-33) is still typically completed for VA financing. Only a TDA-licensed inspector can issue it.
Quick facts — Austin / Texas
| Required for VA loan? | Yes — Texas statewide (VA, Circular 26-22-11) |
|---|---|
| FHA / conventional | Only if appraiser/contract flags pest evidence |
| New construction | Ask builder for termite pretreatment docs; WDI still typical for VA |
| Who issues | TDA-licensed inspector; Form NPMA-33 |
| Typical cost | ~$100–$150 (often free with treatment) |
| Validity / who pays | ~90 days; negotiated (seller conv. / buyer FHA) |
Common questions
Do I need a termite inspection to buy a house in Austin?
In Austin, a termite (WDI) inspection is required for every VA loan because Texas is a statewide VA-required state. FHA and conventional loans require it only when the appraiser flags pest evidence. The report must be a Texas WDI report (Form NPMA-33) from a TDA-licensed inspector.
What about buying new construction in Austin?
For brand-new Austin homes, ask the builder for the termite pretreatment (soil treatment) documentation; for VA financing a WDI report is still typically completed. For resales, the standard Texas WDI report applies.
Who pays for the termite inspection in Austin?
Who pays is negotiated in the purchase contract. Sellers commonly cover the inspection on conventional sales; buyers often pay on FHA. Treatment for any active infestation usually falls to the seller or is handled as a credit, since a clear report is needed to close.
Sources
- VA home loans & pest policy — benefits.va.gov (Circular 26-22-11), accessed Jun 2026
- Texas WDI licensing — Texas Department of Agriculture, accessed Jun 2026
- Form NPMA-33 — National Pest Management Association, accessed Jun 2026
- Termites in Central Texas — Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, accessed Jun 2026
Related: Termite/WDO overview · San Antonio, TX