Termites are not just a coastal or humid-climate problem. Across West Texas, including San Angelo and the broader Concho Valley, subterranean termite activity is a real and ongoing concern for homeowners and buyers alike. The dry conditions that define this part of the state do not eliminate termite risk — they just shift which species are most active and how they behave. Understanding what a termite inspection covers is the first step to protecting your investment.
What a Termite Inspection Looks For
A termite inspection, formally called a Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection in Texas, is a systematic evaluation of a structure’s accessible areas for evidence of termite activity, wood-destroying beetles, and other organisms that compromise structural wood. At Best in the West Inspections, Steven Wilha holds a Texas Pest Control License and Certified Applicator credentials, which means he is qualified to perform and document these inspections to the standard lenders and real estate transactions require.
- Signs of Active Infestation
Inspectors look for mud tubes, which are the pencil-thin tunnels subterranean termites build along foundation walls and piers to travel between the soil and the wood they are feeding on. Live insects, shed wings near windows and doors after a swarm, and frass (termite droppings left by drywood termites) are all signs of active or recent activity that an inspection is designed to detect. - Structural Wood Damage
Termites consume wood from the inside out, which means a board can look perfectly intact while being significantly hollowed. Inspectors probe and tap accessible structural members in areas like crawlspaces, basements, garages, and around foundation penetrations to detect the hollow sound and soft texture that indicate damage. Catching this early is far less costly than discovering it during a remodel or after significant structural compromise has occurred. - Conditions That Favor Infestation
A good WDI inspection also flags conditions that make termite activity more likely, even if no active infestation is present. Wood-to-soil contact, excessive moisture near the foundation, debris stored against the structure, and inadequate ventilation in enclosed spaces are all conditions that invite future problems. Knowing about them lets the new owner address them proactively.
Why West Texas Is Not Off the Hook
Subterranean termites, particularly Reticulitermes species, are found throughout Texas including the arid regions of the west. They follow moisture — so any plumbing leak, irrigation overspray, or drainage issue that keeps soil near the foundation moist creates conditions for activity even in a dry climate. Older homes in San Angelo with wood framing close to grade level or with aging crawlspace conditions are especially worth evaluating carefully.
The Advantage of a Combined Inspection
One of the things that makes Best in the West Inspections genuinely useful for Concho Valley buyers is the ability to combine a home inspection and termite inspection into a single visit. Rather than coordinating with a separate pest control company and working around two different schedules, buyers can get both completed at once. The reports are delivered together, and there is no scheduling gap that delays the transaction.
Exploring the Concho Valley
San Angelo sits at the heart of one of the most distinctive landscapes in Texas. The Concho River, which runs through the city, gives the area its name and its character. The International Waterlily Collection at the Civic League Park is a unique local attraction that draws visitors from across the state. Learn more about San Angelo parks and attractions through the City of San Angelo Parks and Recreation page. It is a community that takes pride in what it has built — which is all the more reason to protect your investment in it.
FAQs About Termite Inspections
Is a termite inspection required to get a mortgage in Texas?
Many lenders, particularly those offering VA and FHA loans, require a WDI inspection as part of the underwriting process. Even when it is not required, it is strongly advisable for any home with wood-frame construction or a history of moisture issues.
How long does a termite inspection take?
A standalone termite inspection typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. When combined with a full home inspection, both are completed in a single visit without significantly extending the overall time on site.
What does the WDI report document?
The report identifies any evidence of wood-destroying insects, any damage attributable to those insects, and conditions that are conducive to infestation. It is the document lenders and real estate agents use to assess pest-related risk in a transaction.
If termites are found, does the seller have to fix it?
That depends on the terms of your purchase contract. A WDI finding gives you documented leverage to negotiate treatment, remediation of damaged wood, or a price adjustment. Having a licensed inspector’s report makes that conversation much more straightforward.
Protect your investment before you close. Schedule a termite inspection with Best in the West Inspections in San Angelo today.