Termites and what the VA labels “wood-destroying pests” can be a serious problem for homeowners, buyers and sellers. House hunters often worry about the condition of older homes when it comes to these pests, and in some cases rightfully so.
To the untrained observer, termite infestations are very difficult to spot unless there is obvious damage. Fortunately, VA loan rules are designed to protect the buyer and the property the VA borrower wants to purchase.
Do I have to get a pest inspection with a VA loan?
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, “Termite inspections are required on existing properties if they are located in an area where the probability of termite infestation is ‘very heavy’ or ‘moderate to heavy’ according to the Termite Infestation Probability Map published in the International Residential Code.”
Use the Termite Infestation Probability Map or check with a lender or your VA Regional Loan Center to see if a pest inspection is required where you plan to purchase a home. Look for a place where you can get quick reliable loans
If a borrower wants to buy a home in a region where termite problems are considered light or where such problems rarely occur, there is no requirement to have a termite inspection performed. Borrowers concerned about the home they want to buy would have to schedule a home inspection, or contact the VA for assistance.
When there is evidence of an actual problem, the VA rules state, “If there is a question about the location of an infestation probability boundary line in relation to the subject property, contact the Construction and Valuation Section at the VA Regional Loan Center of jurisdiction to determine if this requirement is applicable.”
Who pays for the termite inspection on a VA loan?
VA borrowers will often have to provide an invoice for the termite inspection to their lender. VA loan rules state that borrowers are not allowed to pay the pest inspection on a home purchase in all but nine states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Arizona
- California
- Florida
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Texas
VA borrowers can pay this fee on any VA refinance loan type.
Termite Inspections for Condos
VA loan rules for termite inspections are different for condo projects. According to the VA, “A wood destroying insect inspection is required in low-rise and high-rise units only when the fee appraiser observes a potential problem.”
There are some situations that allow the termite inspection to be waived in second-story or higher condo units. Before starting your house hunt, speak with your nearest VA Regional Loan Center to learn if your area requires termite inspections.
On a VA purchase loan, borrowers in all but nine states are not allowed to pay the pest inspection fee. VA borrowers can pay this fee on any VA refinance loan.
