Termite Inspection in California: What You Need to Know

If you're buying, selling, or maintaining a home in California, a professional termite inspection is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your property. Termite inspections are governed by the Structural Pest Control Act and regulated by the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB), a division of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. All inspections must be performed by licensed inspectors working under registered companies and follow a standardized reporting format called the Wood Destroying Pests and Organisms Inspection Report.

What Is a Termite Inspection?

A termite inspection is a visual examination of a property to identify signs of wood-destroying pests and organisms, including termites, wood-decay fungi (dry rot), and other destructive insects, as well as the damage they’ve caused. The inspector also looks for conditions that can lead to future infestations, such as plumbing leaks or earth-to-wood contact.

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What’s the Difference Between a Complete and a Limited Termite Inspection?

If you’ve noticed something around your home and want a professional to check out that specific area, That would be considered a limited inspection. A limited inspection focuses only on the areas you point out, like a spot where you’ve seen damage or signs of termites. For example, it might be just one wall, a part of the garage, or your individual unit in a condo or townhouse.

If you're getting an inspection for clearance, it usually means inspecting everything that's required. In a house, that typically means the entire structure. In a condo or townhouse, it generally includes the areas you're responsible for, but not parts that are maintained by the HOA, like shared roofs or exterior walls.

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What’s inspected during a complete termite inspection?

Inspectors examine all accessible areas, which often include:

• Exterior walls and eaves
• Interior walls and ceilings
• Attic
• Sub-area or crawlspace
• Garage
• Attached structures (like decks and patio covers)

If a space should be accessible but isn’t (e.g., a locked closet or blocked attic hatch), it will be noted as a limitation in the report.

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What Tools Do Termite Inspectors Use?

Although inspections are primarily visual, inspectors may use:

• A check stick (a long pole with a pointed end) to tap exposed wood and check for hollowness.
• A moisture meter to detect elevated moisture levels.
• A flashlight, mirror, and other hand tools to check dark or hard-to-reach areas.

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Will the Inspection Damage My Home?

A good inspector is careful and respectful. Some probing is necessary, especially in vulnerable areas like eaves, but aggressive or careless use of tools can leave marks or gouges on sound wood. Choose an inspector who balances thoroughness with care.

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What Is a Termite Report?

A termite report is the document created after a professional termite inspection. The official name for this report in California is the Wood Destroying Pests and Organisms Report. The format for this report was established by the Structural Pest Control Act and is regulated by the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB). The report includes a diagram of the structure, any findings of wood-destroying organisms, the damage they caused, and recommendations for treatment or repair. It may also include photos. It’s the first step in obtaining Section 1 clearance when selling or refinancing a home in California. Findings are grouped into three categories:

• Section 1: Active infestations or infections.
• Section 2: Conditions likely to lead to future infestations.
• Section 3: Areas that were inaccessible or not inspected.

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Do I Need a Complete Report for a Section 1 Clearance?

It depends on the type of property and your lender’s requirements:

• Single-family homes: A full inspection is needed to obtain clearance.
• Condos or townhomes: The inspection is usually limited to the areas the homeowner is responsible for, such as the interior, attic, and garage. HOA policies can vary, so it’s important to check what your HOA covers and what falls under your responsibility.
• VA loans: May require more thorough inspections depending on the property’s legal description and the lender’s policies.

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What Is Section 1 and Section 2?

Section 1 includes active infestations or infections that require treatment or repair.

Section 2 includes conditions that may lead to future infestations or damage, even if no active damage is visible yet.

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What Are Some Examples of Section 1 Findings?

• Drywood termites
• Subterranean termites
• Wood decay fungi (dry rot)
• Carpenter ants
• Carpenter bees
• Wood-boring beetles, like powderpost beetles

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What Are Some Examples of Section 2 Findings?

• Earth-to-wood contact
• Plumbing leaks (often noted as “bleaks”)
• Inadequate ventilation
• Moisture intrusion
• Faulty grade conditions

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What Happens During the Interior Inspection?

Inside the home, the inspector may:

• Turn on faucets and flush toilets to check for leaks.
• Look under sinks and around appliances.
• Check for loose toilets (which can lead to leaks due to failed wax seals).
• On first-floor showers, the inspector will perform a shower pan test by filling the shower basin with water to check for leaks.

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Who Regulates Termite Inspections in California?

In California, termite inspections are regulated by the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB). The board enforces the Structural Pest Control Act, which outlines how inspections must be performed and how findings must be reported.

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What Is the Structural Pest Control Act?

The Structural Pest Control Act is a set of laws that govern structural pest control work in California. It:

• Establishes inspection and treatment rules.
• Requires inspectors to be licensed and work under registered companies.
• Mandates the use of standardized reports.
• Is enforced by the Structural Pest Control Board.

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What Is a Shower Pan Test?

A shower pan test involves:

• Sealing the drain (if possible).
• Filling the shower with water up to one inch below the threshold.
• Waiting 15 minutes to see if any water leaks through.

Leaks may indicate a problem with the waterproofing below the shower base. If a leak is found, the recommended fix is usually to remove and reinstall the shower pan.

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What If Parts of the House Are Inaccessible?

If areas like the attic, sub-area, or certain rooms are inaccessible due to blockage, sealed access, or locked doors, this must be noted in the report. These limitations may prevent the issuance of full clearance until access is granted.

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Do Detached Structures or Fences Need to Be Inspected in Order to Get a Clearance?

Detached structures like fences and sheds are usually not included in a standard inspection and are not required for Section 1 clearance. However, detached garages are often inspected, especially if they are part of the sale or loan. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are typically included as well, depending on what the clearance needs to cover. If you're unsure, it's a good idea to check with your agent or lender to confirm what's required.

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How Can I Schedule a Termite Inspection?

Ready to schedule your termite inspection in Los Angeles, Orange County, or the Inland Empire? Contact WoodWise Termite today. We offer:

• Free inspections for homeowners
• Easy scheduling
• Clear, detailed reports
• Local expertise backed by licensing and professionalism

Call us at (626) 949-3888 or contact us to request your inspection.

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