Pest Inspections: A Silent Deal Maker (or Breaker)
If you’re a real estate agent, mortgage broker, property manager, or HOA representative, you’ve likely had a deal slowed, or even derailed, by an unexpected pest issue. The question comes up often: who handles pest inspection in a home sale, and more importantly, how do we ensure it’s done efficiently and accurately?
Whether required by the lender or simply a smart pre-sale move, pest inspections, especially for wood-destroying insects like termites, are essential to safeguarding your client’s investment and ensuring smooth transactions. With housing timelines already tight, knowing how and when to engage a pest control partner can save time, money, and stress.
Who Typically Orders the Pest Inspection?
The short answer: it depends on the transaction type, location, and agreement between buyer and seller. Here’s how it typically breaks down:
| Professional | Role in Pest Inspections |
| Buyer’s Agent | Often requests the WDI inspection as part of due diligence. |
| Listing Agent | May order pre-listing pest inspection to avoid surprises. |
| Mortgage Lenders | May require WDI reports for VA, FHA, or USDA loans. |
| HOAs | Sometimes provide pest history or enforce annual inspection rules. |
| Buyers/Sellers | May negotiate responsibility during the contract phase. |
In Georgia, WDI (Wood Destroying Insect) letters are commonly required during home sales, particularly when government-backed loans are involved. These inspections must be performed by licensed pest control professionals and returned within a strict window, often 24–48 hours.
Why Pest Inspections Matter (and the Cost of Skipping Them)
The financial risk of skipping or delaying pest inspections is substantial. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA):
- Termites alone cause over $5 billion in property damage annually in the U.S.
- The average homeowner spends $3,000 or more on termite damage repairs.
- Pest issues discovered post-sale are among the top 5 causes of buyer lawsuits against sellers or agents.
And those are just the direct costs. Add closing delays, lost deals, renegotiations, and brand damage to your business reputation, and the stakes get even higher.
In Georgia’s humid climate, pests like termites, carpenter ants, rodents, and powderpost beetles are especially aggressive. That’s why real estate professionals should treat pest inspections as non-negotiable, just like appraisals or title searches.
What Does a Pest Inspection Include?
A professional pest inspection, like those offered by Arete Pest Control, involves:
- Visual inspection of the home’s interior and exterior
- Identification of wood-destroying organisms (WDOs)
- Moisture and structural damage detection
- Inspection of crawlspaces, attics, and basements
- Official issuance of a WDI (Wood Destroying Insect) Letter for closing
For real estate closings, the report must be completed by a licensed pest control professional, certified by the state of Georgia.
Beyond the Letter: The Value of Ongoing Pest Control
While the inspection letter may be the only requirement at closing, true client service goes further. Encouraging buyers to invest in ongoing pest prevention protects their property and reflects well on the agent, lender, or property manager who recommended it.
Benefits of year-round pest control for new homeowners include:
- Prevention of future costly infestations
- Reduction in allergen and bacteria exposure (especially from rodents and cockroaches)
- Preserved home value through proactive maintenance
- Peace of mind in knowing their investment is protected
HOAs, property managers, and investor groups also benefit from bulk pest control contracts, helping maintain property values across communities and reducing emergency service costs.
The Professional Advantage: Why Real Estate Experts Partner with Arete Pest Control
Arete Pest Control is Georgia’s go-to pest inspection partner for real estate professionals who demand speed, accuracy, and white-glove service.
Here’s what makes us different:
| Arete Advantage | Why It Matters for You |
| 24–48 Hour Turnaround on WDI Letters | Keep your closings on track and avoid costly delays. |
| Easy Online Booking | Schedule inspections in seconds , no calls, no wait times. |
| Exclusive Realtor Perks | Get Amazon gift cards, client discounts, and seasonal promotions. |
| Professional, Uniformed Inspectors | Maintain your brand’s professionalism with our team’s polished presentation. |
| Client Follow-Up Service | Ongoing pest control offers post-sale peace of mind and reflects well on you. |
We work with buyer’s agents, listing agents, lenders, builders, and HOAs to deliver fast, professional pest inspections backed by expert reporting and five-star service. When agents refer Arete, their clients feel cared for, and that’s where repeat business starts.
What Realtors and Managers Are Saying
“Arete is our go-to for pest inspections. The turnaround is fast, the team is professional, and our clients love the peace of mind they offer.”
Jessica R., Listing Agent, Marietta, GA
“We use Arete across several managed properties. Their bundled pest services help reduce complaints and protect our rental portfolio.”
Kevin M., Property Manager, Gwinnett County
Ready to Simplify Your Transactions?
If you’re a Realtor, mortgage pro, HOA leader, or property manager tired of scrambling for last-minute inspections, we’d love to help.
Join the Arete Realtor Partner Program to access:
- Priority WDI scheduling
- Realtor-exclusive rewards
- Free marketing tools and homeowner welcome kits
