When buying or selling a home in Maricopa County, pest control isn’t just a maintenance issue. It’s a legal right. Real estate inspections often reveals flaw about hidden infestations. Lenders may require certified pest reports before approving a mortgage. Whether you’re an agent, buyer, or seller, understanding the pest inspection is necessary. Having a qualified pest control team can save you time, money, and stress.
This article breaks down what real estate pest inspections involve, what lenders and Arizona law require, and how you can follow the process for a smoother closing.
Why Pest Control Is Important in Real Estate Transactions
The Arizona real estate market is growing but something is stopping it, the persistents infestations. Desert subterranean termites, roof rats, and scorpions are common across Maricopa County. If an infestation is discovered during escrow, it could delay a deal.
Lenders like FHA and VA loans often require a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Report, commonly referred to as a termite letter. This is to confirm that the property is pest-free or that treatment has been completed.
In most real estate transactions:
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Buyers want peace of mind that the property is safe and structurally sound.
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Sellers are often expected to handle pest treatments before listing or closing.
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Agents play a key role in recommending reliable pest professionals.
Explore our full Pest Control Services in Maricopa County
Understanding WDI Reports and Termite Inspections in Arizona
A WDI Report is an official document created by a licensed pest control expert that details any evidence of termites or other wood-destroying insects. These reports are critical for buyers and are required by most lenders.
In Arizona, termite inspections are particularly important because:
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Most homes are built on slab foundation, known prime targets for subterranean termites.
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State law requires termite treatment disclosures during real estate transactions.
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The report is valid for 30–90 days, depending on the lender’s requirements.
We’ve helped close hundreds of transactions in cities like Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert by providing certified termite inspections within 24 hours.
Learn more from the Arizona Department of Agriculture – Pest Management Division
Need a termite letter fast? Call us for same-day inspections.
Common Pests That Trigger Real Estate Red Flags
Here are the top culprits that frequently show up during inspections in Maricopa County:
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Desert Subterranean Termites: Found in nearly every part of the county; especially active in older homes in Mesa and Glendale.
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Roof Rats: Common in Tempe, especially during colder months.
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Scorpions: A serious concern in Scottsdale and Peoria, especially near natural desert areas.
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Carpenter Ants and Spiders: Often flagged during inspections due to structural risk or fear factor for buyers.
Inspectors are trained to recognize signs of active infestations and past damage. nAd even one small clue can flag the home for further treatment.
Rodent Control Services in Maricopa County
What Happens During a Real Estate Pest Inspection?
A real estate pest inspection includes a full walkthrough of the property by a licensed technician. We check:
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Attics, basements, garages, crawl spaces
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Exterior foundation walls, eaves, and patios
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Inside cabinets, closets, and plumbing access areas
The tools we use include:
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Moisture meters to detect potential termite-attracting conditions
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Infrared scanners for hidden infestations
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Bait stations to monitor termite activity
The process typically takes about 45–60 minutes. A detailed report is delivered the same day.
Selling your home in Phoenix? Schedule your pre-listing pest inspection now.
Who Pays for Pest Control in Real Estate Deals?
In Maricopa County, it’s common for sellers to cover the cost of termite inspections and treatment before listing. However, buyers may request additional treatments or updated reports as part of negotiations.
Here’s how it typically breaks down:
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Seller pays for initial inspection and treatment
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Buyer pays for follow-up or additional reports, if needed
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Agents should advise clients to get a pest report early in the listing process
Scorpion Control in Scottsdale
National Association of Realtors Pest Disclosure Guide
Post-Treatment Documentation: What Lenders Want
After treatment, lenders need proof that the infestation has been professionally addressed. We provide:
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Digital WDI reports and treatment receipts
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Photos of treated areas
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Detailed inspection maps and warranty documentation
We’re licensed in Arizona and certified to issue inspection reports for VA, FHA, and conventional loans.
Need a VA-approved termite clearance letter? We’ve got you covered.
Meet Our Licensed Pest Experts
Real Estate Agents: How to Make Pest Control a Selling Point
Savvy agents use pest control as a value add when marketing listings. A clean inspection report shows buyers that the home has been maintained and gives them confidence in making an offer.
Ways to leverage pest control:
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Include inspection reports in MLS listings
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Advertise “certified termite-free” in marketing materials
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Partner with a reliable pest control company for fast turnaround
HUD Termite Inspection Requirements
Agents: Contact us for priority scheduling and co-branded inspection forms.
Local Laws & Disclosure Requirements in Maricopa County
Arizona law requires sellers to disclose any known past or present infestations or treatments. Local city ordinances may also impact what needs to be disclosed during a home sale.
Key points:
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Disclose all pest treatments within the past 5 years
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Provide inspection records if available
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Understand termite addendums in standard AZ real estate contracts
Pest Control Services in Chandler, AZ
Avoid disclosure violations—get your home professionally inspected before you list.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Pests Kill Your Deal
In a competitive market like Maricopa County, every detail counts. A professional pest inspection gives buyers confidence. It speeds up closings, and protects sellers from costly surprises. Whether you’re listing your home in Gilbert, buying in Glendale, or closing in Queen Creek, we’ve got local technicians ready to help.
Call now or book your real estate pest inspection online to get fast, certified documentation that meets lender requirements and keeps your transaction on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a WDI inspection?
A WDI (Wood-Destroying Insect) inspection looks for termites and other wood-destroying pests before a home is bought or sold.
Do I need a termite letter to sell my house in Arizona?
Most lenders, including VA and FHA, require a termite clearance letter.
How long does a pest inspection take?
About 45–60 minutes, depending on property size.
