Termite and pest (WDO) inspection in Washington (2026):
cost, who can do it and what the report must show
HOW MUCH DOES A TERMITE INSPECTION COST?
Angi puts a termite inspection at about $165 on average, and a wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspection at about $150; many companies inspect a typical home free. In Washington, only an inspector licensed by the Department of Agriculture (WSDA) as a structural pest inspector can report on wood-destroying insects. A WDO report for a sale or refinance must carry a WSDA inspection control number.
Termite and WDO inspection cost
| Inspection | Reported cost |
|---|---|
| Termite inspection, average | about $165 |
| Termite inspection, range | free to about $300 |
| WDO (wood-destroying organism) inspection | about $150 |
| Pest add-on to a home inspection | about $125 |
Who can inspect in Washington
- Structural pest inspector license. WSDA says a home inspector "cannot inspect for or report on the presence of wood destroying insects" unless also licensed as a structural pest inspector.
- Many hold both. WSDA notes many home inspectors also hold the structural pest inspector license, because buyers often expect a report on wood-destroying insects. Ask before you book. See home inspection cost in Washington.
- Insurance or bond. WSDA says structural pest inspectors must show errors and omissions insurance and/or a surety bond to be licensed.
What a WDO report must show
For a sale, exchange or refinance, WAC 16-228-2045 requires a complete WDO inspection report with:
- A WSDA inspection control number (ICN) in the upper third of the first page, unique to the structure; a new one for each sale, exchange or refinance.
- The inspection date, the address, and the inspector's name and WSDA license number.
- Any WDO damage or infestation, and conducive conditions explained in writing.
- Inaccessible and excluded areas.
- A diagram when there are findings, or a prominent statement that a diagram is available on request.
The rule names moisture ants, dampwood termites, wood-boring beetles (anobiids) and wood decay fungi among the organisms reports cover. When those are found, the report must say infestations may be eliminated by removing infested wood and correcting the conditions that caused them.
Termite treatment cost in Seattle
| Treatment | Reported cost |
|---|---|
| Typical treatment, Seattle | $160–$280 (about $217) |
| One-time treatment | $200–$1,000 |
| Chemical termiticide | $3–$16 per linear ft |
| Bait system | $8–$12 per linear ft |
| Tenting or heat treatment | $1,200–$2,500 flat, or $5–$20 per linear ft |
The report must also list conducive conditions. If they come from a damp crawl space, see crawl space encapsulation cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a termite inspection cost?
Angi puts a termite inspection at about $165 on average and a WDO inspection at about $150. Many large companies inspect typical homes free.
Can a home inspector check for termites in Washington?
Only if also licensed as a structural pest inspector by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Without that license, a home inspector can't inspect for or report on wood-destroying insects.
What is an ICN on a pest inspection report?
A WSDA inspection control number. WAC 16-228-2045 requires it in the upper third of the first page of a complete WDO report for a sale, exchange or refinance, unique to the structure.
Which pests does a WDO inspection cover in Washington?
Wood-destroying organisms, including those WAC 16-228-2045 names: moisture ants, dampwood termites, wood-boring beetles and wood decay fungi, plus the conditions that invite them.
How much does termite treatment cost in Seattle?
Angi puts a typical Seattle treatment at $160 to $280, about $217, with one-time treatments at $200 to $1,000 and tenting at $1,200 to $2,500.
About these prices. The ranges are published estimates from the sources below, as of the dates shown. Material costs, labor rates, tariffs and inflation can change prices after those dates, and your home may differ. Use them to plan a budget, then get written quotes from licensed contractors.
Sources
- WAC 16-228-2045 — Complete WDO inspection reports
- Washington State Department of Agriculture — Home inspector licensing and the structural pest inspector license (July 2009)
- Angi — Termite inspection cost (January 11, 2022) and home inspection cost (2025 data)
- Angi — Termite treatment cost in Seattle, WA (October 9, 2025)
All sources accessed November 10, 2026, except the WSDA FAQ (checked November 9, 2026).
This guide summarizes published cost estimates and Washington rules. Check an inspector's license with the Washington State Department of Agriculture before you hire. See our disclosure and disclaimer.