What Is a Structural Pest Inspection?
By JC Pacific Corp Published 2026-09-01 Last professionally reviewed: September 2026
A California structural pest inspection evaluates visible and accessible evidence of wood-destroying pests, related damage and certain conditions that may contribute to infestation.
What May Be Evaluated?
A licensed professional may inspect for:
- Termites
- Wood-boring beetles
- Wood-destroying fungi
- Damage caused by infestation
- Moisture conditions
- Earth-to-wood contact
- Other conducive conditions
General Inspection vs. Pest Inspection
A general home inspector may observe possible pest damage but does not replace a licensed structural pest professional.
Reports and Records
California's Structural Pest Control Board provides a Wood Destroying Organism System Search at pestboard.ca.gov (WDO System Search) for certain inspection-report and completion information. A record search should not replace a current property-specific inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a pest inspection required for every sale?
No universal requirement applies to every California transaction. Contract and lender requirements may differ.
Does the seller have to complete pest work?
That depends on the agreement and negotiations.
Does a clear report guarantee no termites?
No inspection can guarantee future conditions or identify every inaccessible infestation.
Wood-destroying organisms can create significant damage, particularly when moisture problems remain unresolved.
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A note on legal advice: These guides provide general, educational information about California real estate practice. They are not legal advice and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Mortgage information is general education, not individualized lending, tax or legal guidance. For advice about your specific offer, contract, closing or financing, consult a qualified California real estate attorney and a qualified mortgage professional.