• Seattle Pest Inspection
• Tacoma Pest Inspection
• Olympia Pest Inspection
• Puyallup Home Inspection
• Real Estate Inspection

Who makes the determination to request a pest inspection?

There are several different sources for this request.  You as a buyer or seller of a home can request a pest inspection.  The bank or mortgage broker and/or the loan underwriter can, and often do make the request for a pest inspection.   Finally, your real estate agent will often request a pest inspection.

What is a Pest Inspection? How is it different from a Structural Home Inspection?

This is a determination of whether or not you have any of the following Wood Destroying Organisms at your premises: wood rot (sometimes call "dry rot"), carpenter ants, termites, moisture ants, powder post beetles, etc.  A pest inspector (only) is not looking for structural problems or building code issues, nor is he trained or required to look for them.   The only building factor that he can evaluate is wood rot or decay.  Only a licensed pest inspector can make that determination, according to the Laws of the State of Washington.   When a pest inspection only is requested by a lender, it usually means that if there are any pest issues, they will have to be corrected before the loan is closed.  This usually means that there will be a re-inspection if any problems were found in the first inspection.   With a home inspection, there is no requirement to correct items in the report by the lender.  The lenders usually never see the home inspection report, and are not interested in it, as long as the appraiser give the home sufficient value for the loan.

What is involved in a Pest Inspection?

A typical pest inspection takes about One hour on site to visually inspect the attic, living areas,  crawl spaces, and outside areas for any signs of the above listed species.   This information is compiled into a printed report.  This report has a Inspection Control Number issued by the Department of Agriculture.  If any Wood Destroying Organisms (WDO) are discovered, a diagram of the premises details the location of the problem.  If no pests (WDO) are determined, no diagram of the premises are required by law.

How much will this cost me?

Please see our pricing and location page for this information.  I do offer discounts also.

How soon can I expect to receive the report?

The typical turn around time is one business day. For an extra $50 charge I can arrange to have the report complete and returned on the same day.

Is this report a scientific document?

No. The written report is my professional opinion of the home in question. No destructive testing methods are employed in the process. You are hiring me to give you my professional and objective evaluation of the home you wish to buy or sell, just as you would take a car that you are interested in buying to a mechanic for his evaluation of the vehicle. You must make the final determination of buying or selling based on the information provided to you.

Are Pest Inspectors Required to be Licensed in Washington State?

Yes, they are.  You can verify their credentials by contacting the Washington Department of Agriculture.   All Pest Inspectors are issued a license from the DOA which has a five digit number.  Mine is #66886.  The Department of Agriculture requires that all pest inspectors be tested and insured.  There are also requirements for current and ongoing education in the field. The DOA also keeps a list of currently licensed pest inspectors. You can call them toll free at 877-301-4555.

What areas are served by Trek Inspection Services?

• Seattle Home Inspection
• Tacoma Home Inspection
• Renton Home Inspection
• Auburn Home Inspection
• Kent Home Inspection
• Olympia Home Inspection
• Puyallup Home Inspection
• Gig Harbor Inspection
• Bonney Lake Home Inspection
• Lacey Home Inspection
• Sumner Home Inspection
• Dupont Home Inspection
• Yelm Home Inspection