Opinions - Always get termite/insect inspections?

Question

I just signed a purchase agreement on my 4th property, SFH, as are all of them, and I am getting the inspection, including a separately priced termite/wood boring insect inspection, early next week before proceeding.

I got the inspection, but not the termite inspection on the last property I purchased.  I am in West Michigan.

Do you always pay the extra separately for termite inspections on all properties you purchase, or does it depend on location / age, etc. ?  Just curious as to attitudes on what others do and worth the risk and extra fee, thanks.

Jeff Ryan · Answer

Thanks @Adam Daneff .  I did get that inspection on this home.  I had to look up 'WDO'; now I know another acronym of the industry!  He called it 'wood boring insects'.  I followed him around during the inspection.  We went down in the basement, he glanced around a little bit, and said 'nope, no termites..'.  That was that.  I say that somewhat tongue in cheek, as he was good for the inspections, and I'm still glad I did it.  Good luck with things, and I'll keep you in mind for future inspections, as it looks like you are involved with them.

Adam Daneff · Answer

@Jeff Ryan I know this is too late for your inspection but as far as termites go, it is pretty common to just get the WDO inspection done. It is such a small fee that most people just go with, better safe than sorry from what I see. That being said, termites are definitely not as common as in the south. Kind of risk vs reward, better to pay $60-100 for the WDO than not and potentially have them. But again, a honest inspector should notice while he is doing the inspection anyway