Termite Inspections
in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie & Indian River Counties
Termite activity poses a major threat to homes and commercial properties throughout South Florida. At Buyer Protection, we provide comprehensive termite inspections in Martin County, Palm Beach County, St. Lucie County, and Indian River County. These inspections are performed by licensed inspectors and include documentation for real estate transactions, refinancing, or ongoing property maintenance. Florida’s warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for termite colonies to thrive. Subterranean and drywood termites are the most common species found in the region, and both can cause significant structural damage if left unchecked. Our inspections are designed to identify active infestations, visible damage, and conditions conducive to future termite problems.
What a Termite Inspection Includes
Termite inspections—also known as WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) inspections—evaluate a structure for evidence of active or past termite activity, damage caused by termites, and areas of concern where infestations are likely to occur. Our approach follows Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) guidelines and includes detailed reporting.
Inspection of Accessible Wood Components
Our inspectors examine all visible and accessible wood elements including baseboards, wall framing, roof trusses, floor joists, decks, porches, door frames, window sills, and crawlspaces. In older homes across Martin and St. Lucie Counties, wood structures often show signs of previous repairs or concealed termite activity, which we document thoroughly.
Detection of Termite Tubes and Entry Points
Subterranean termites build shelter tubes from soil to reach wood above ground. These tubes are often found along foundation walls, under flooring, or inside garages. We identify and photograph these structures and trace potential entry points from landscaping, mulch beds, or foundation cracks.
Evidence of Frass and Hollow Wood
Drywood termites leave behind fecal pellets, known as frass, and cause internal wood damage that leaves structures hollow or brittle. Our inspectors tap and probe suspicious wood areas and listen for acoustic differences that may indicate internal tunneling.
Identification of Moisture Conditions
Damp environments attract termites and allow colonies to flourish. We use moisture meters and visual inspections to identify leaky pipes, poor drainage, HVAC condensation, or roof leaks—issues that frequently arise in humid areas of Palm Beach and Indian River Counties.
Real Estate and Regulatory Compliance
In Florida, a WDO inspection report is often required for mortgage underwriting, VA or FHA loans, and real estate closings. Our inspectors are licensed to issue this report in accordance with state requirements. It includes diagrams, photographic evidence, detailed findings, and official documentation required by realtors, lenders, and title companies.
WDO reports detail the presence of any wood-destroying organisms, including subterranean termites, drywood termites, wood-decay fungi, old house borers, and powderpost beetles. If no evidence is found, we provide a clean report; if activity or damage is observed, recommendations and further action steps are included.
Common Areas of Termite Activity in South Florida
Termite inspections across Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, and Indian River Counties must account for regional building materials, soil composition, and climate patterns. Our local knowledge ensures that we inspect the right locations based on environmental risk.
Crawlspaces and Slab Perimeters
Homes with raised foundations or slab-on-grade construction are vulnerable to subterranean termite intrusion. Termites enter through gaps in foundations, plumbing penetrations, or expansion joints and often go unnoticed until major damage occurs.
Attics and Roof Structures
Drywood termites infest attics, roof trusses, and fascia boards. These insects fly directly into the home and establish colonies in hidden wood above the ceiling. Homes in coastal towns like Vero Beach and Jupiter often contain visible attic damage due to this behavior.
Fences, Decks, and Exterior Structures
Detached wooden features like fences, pergolas, and storage sheds are common entry points. From there, termites can migrate to the main structure. Our inspection includes these areas when connected or within close proximity to the primary structure.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Moisture-rich environments such as under sinks, behind cabinets, and around plumbing access points are inspected closely. These areas often contain hidden wood-to-soil contact or concealed water damage that makes them ideal for infestation.
When to Schedule a Termite Inspection
A termite inspection should be performed under several circumstances to ensure the long-term integrity of your property in South Florida.
Before Buying or Selling a Home
Florida real estate transactions frequently require a termite inspection. Even if not mandated by the lender, buyers and sellers benefit from understanding whether the structure is compromised or at risk.
After Recent Repairs or Renovations
If new wood was installed, especially outdoors or near soil, a follow-up inspection ensures that proper treatments or barriers are in place to prevent termite intrusion.
Annually as Part of Property Maintenance
Homeowners and property managers often schedule annual termite inspections to catch early signs of activity before costly structural damage occurs. In regions like Palm Beach County, where soil treatments can degrade over time, regular evaluations are key.
If You See Signs of Infestation
Visible wings, mud tubes, or sawdust-like material are indicators of termite presence. Schedule an inspection immediately if any of these signs are observed.
Serving All Major Regions in South Florida
Buyer Protection performs termite inspections across Martin County, Palm Beach County, St. Lucie County, and Indian River County. Our licensed inspectors understand the unique challenges of termite control in each area, from high groundwater conditions in Stuart to wood-frame beach homes in Indian River Shores.
We partner with real estate agents, homeowners, and property managers to ensure inspections are completed accurately, efficiently, and with proper documentation.
Schedule a Termite Inspection Appointment
If your home or commercial property is located in Martin County, Palm Beach County, St. Lucie County, or Indian River County, contact Buyer Protection to schedule a certified termite inspection. Our process helps identify threats, prevent long-term damage, and keep your property in compliance with Florida's inspection standards.