**Title: Essential Guide to VA Loan Termite Inspections: What You Need to Know**
**Introduction**
Termites, though small, can cause significant damage to your home. This is why many mortgage lenders, including the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) lenders, may require a termite inspection before you purchase a home. In states where termite infestations are common, a termite inspection could be mandatory to acquire a VA mortgage. Understanding the process and requirements of a VA loan termite inspection can help you feel more prepared as you navigate the home buying process.
**Are Termite Inspections Required for VA Loans?**
If you plan to use a VA loan to finance your new house, you may need to complete a VA loan termite inspection. Inspection requirements depend on the state and county you live in. The Department of Veterans Affairs uses the Termite Infestation Probability Map to determine which states and locations require termite inspections. Areas with heavy or moderate infestations will likely require an inspection.
**When Arent Termite Inspections Required for VA Loans?**
Some states and certain counties do not require home buyers to conduct a termite inspection for a VA mortgage. Additionally, with a VA Streamline refinance or IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan), a homeowner isnt required to have an inspection unless the appraiser believes there may be a pest problem.
**VA Loan Termite Inspection Requirements by State**
Several states are discretionary states, where an inspection is only required if the VA appraiser mentions an issue during the process. The need for an inspection also depends on your county or parish in certain states. The discretionary states include:
– Alaska
– Colorado
– Idaho
– Maine
– Minnesota
– Montana
– North Dakota
– Oregon
– South Dakota
– Wisconsin
– Wyoming
**Should You Get a Termite Inspection If Its Not Required?**
Even if a termite inspection is not required in your state, its wise to conduct one to ensure there are no surprises later on. A termite inspection will give you peace of mind that your home is free of pests. If termites are found, you can decide whether to move forward with the purchase or make repairs and treat the infestation before the sale.
**How Do Termite Inspections for VA Loans Work?**
Termite inspections for a VA loan typically occur around the same time as your appraisal or home inspection. Here are the steps your inspector will take during the process:
1. **Conduct an In-Depth Inspection**
Your independent VA appraiser will perform a detailed inspection for any infestation. The inspector will look for more than just termites, checking for all critters that may cause concern to your property, including:
– Bedbugs
– Carpenter ants
– Spiders
– Snakes
– Rodents
– Scorpions
– Moths
– Termites
The inspector will also look for any damage to the wood in and around your home, such as baseboards and siding.
2. **Offer a Complete Report of All Findings**
After the inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report to the appraiser. The report will describe any pests found, where they were found, and if they caused any damage. The inspector will recommend any necessary treatments to remedy the issues discovered.
3. **Provide Detailed Remedies for Damage and Pests Found**
If damage from a previous infestation or a current infestation is present, a second inspection may be required to follow up on the issue. In most instances, you must treat and resolve any problem in the report. All remedies must adhere to VA loan guidelines. A secondary inspection will verify that everything has been taken care of and meets current living standards.
**Who Pays for the VA Home Loan Termite Inspection?**
The buyer, seller, or lender can pay for any inspection with most home loans. Up until June 2022, the VA didnt allow veteran home buyers to pay for their own termite inspections, putting borrowers at a disadvantage. Nowadays, a buyer can cover this cost, even if they use a VA loan. However, the cost is negotiable and may be covered by the lender or seller if they agree.
**How Much Does a VA Termite Inspection Cost?**
Typically, a termite inspection costs between $50 and $280. This cost varies by the size of the home and the areas inspected. In some cases, you could receive a discount if you complete a regular home inspection along with your termite inspection.
**How Long Is a Termite Inspection Good for a VA Loan?**
Termite inspections are valid for at least 90 days, ensuring a new homeowner has plenty of time to move in and complete the closing process. Keep in mind that this time frame is a VA lending requirement and does not necessarily mean the home will remain pest-free during that time.
**The Bottom Line: Termite Inspections with VA Loans Vary by State**
A termite inspection helps ensure no unwanted pests are damaging your home. While some states require a VA termite inspection to qualify for a VA mortgage, it is recommended regardless to ensure your home is safe and pest-free. Requirements for VA loan termite inspections vary from state to state, so do your research to know what to expect during this process and become familiar with the different requirements for your county or parish.
If youre considering using a VA loan to buy a home, learn more about VA loans and how they work by visiting [O1ne Mortgage Inc.](https://o1nemortgage.com) or calling us at 888-372-8820 to speak with a mortgage expert or request a mortgage quote.
**Keywords:** VA loan termite inspection, VA mortgage, termite inspection requirements, VA home loan, pest inspection, home buying process, O1ne Mortgage Inc.
