The average termite repair in Southern California costs $8,000–$15,000. Annual inspections cost a fraction of that — and catch problems before they become catastrophic.
The Cost of Waiting
The most expensive termite infestations are the ones that go undetected. Here's why:
- A drywood termite colony grows 2–5% per year in population
- Structural damage accumulates over years of active feeding
- The first visible signs often appear only after 3–7 years of infestation
- By the time homeowners notice, average repair costs in Southern California range from $8,000 to $15,000
Annual inspections interrupt this cycle by catching infestations in their early stages — when treatment options are less invasive and less expensive.
What Happens During an Annual Inspection
A thorough annual termite inspection includes:
Interior Inspection
- Garage walls, ceiling, and attic access
- All interior wall sections accessible from the attic
- Sub-floor areas in crawl spaces
- Bathroom and kitchen walls near plumbing
- Evidence of frass, galleries, or swarmers
Exterior Inspection
- All exterior wood surfaces: fascia, eaves, siding, and trim
- Foundation perimeter for mud tubes
- Fence posts and wood-to-soil contact points
- Detached structures (garages, sheds, pergolas)
Specialized Inspection
- Moisture meter readings in suspect areas
- Sounding (tapping) wood for hollowness
- Optical tools for attic and crawl space inspection
The Math: Inspection vs. Repair
| Scenario | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual inspection (no treatment needed) | $0–$150 |
| Early-stage treatment (small infestation found) | $500–$2,000 |
| Mid-stage treatment (moderate infestation) | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Late-stage treatment + structural repair | $10,000–$30,000+ |
The return on investment for annual inspections is clear: catching a small infestation early saves thousands compared to treating a mature one.
Inspections and Real Estate
In California, a Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) report is typically required in real estate transactions. Annual inspections mean:
- Your WDO report is expected to be clean
- No last-minute surprises during escrow
- No price renegotiations due to termite damage
Free Annual Inspections with Treatment Warranty
All treatment warranties from Ultimate Termite include free annual re-inspections for the warranty period. If you've recently treated your home, stay current with your annual inspection to maintain warranty coverage.
If it's been more than a year since your last inspection — or you've never had one — schedule yours today. We provide free inspections throughout Orange County, Los Angeles County, Inland Empire, and Riverside County.
No pressure. No obligation. Just honest information about the condition of your home.