🐜 Idaho's New Termite Inspection Rule: What Buyers, Sellers, Realtors & Builders Need to Know

🏡 Why Termites Are Now Everyone's Business in Idaho

Termite Inspection requirements in Idaho 2025, Idaho now requires termite (WDO) inspections for every home sale - yes, even those on a concrete slab in Boise or that brand-new build in Star. Whether you're buying, selling, building, or brokering, this new rule affects you.

Termite Inspection requirements in Idaho 2025

VA Link to new rule:  https://www.benefits.va.gov/HOMELOANS/appraiser_cv_local_req.asp

Let's break it all down - without getting bugged out. 🐛

🛒 Buyer Requirements

Buyers must now ensure a wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspection is completed early in the transaction.

• Who arranges it? Typically the buyer, unless negotiated.

• When is it done? During the inspection/due diligence phase.

• Form required? NPMA-33 - Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report (PDF)

• VA  loans? Already required in many cases - this rule now applies to all Idaho sales.

💡 Pro Tip: Don't wait. Schedule this early to avoid closing delays.

🏠 Seller Requirements

Sellers must now provide reasonable access for the inspector and may need to remediate if activity is found.

• Disclosure: Idaho's updated Seller Property Disclosure Form now includes WDO questions.

• Treatment Required? If infestation is found, treatment and clearance are needed before closing.

• Can they pay for the inspection? Yes - but in accordance with VA Circular 26-22-11, the Veteran can also pay.

🔍 Tip: A pre-listing inspection gives you control and transparency.

🏗️ Builder Requirements for New Construction

Yes, even new construction is affected.

• Builders must show proof of prevention/treatment for termites.

• Required forms:

  • NPMA-99A - Subterranean Termite Protection Builder's Disclosure 

  • NPMA-99B - New Construction Subterranean Termite Service Record 

• Timing: Treatment must be completed before drywall and verified before closing.

🚧 Builder Tip: Book pest contractors early - this is now part of the compliance timeline.

🔁 Refinancing - Is a Termite Inspection Required?

Usually not required, unless…

• The appraiser notes damage or infestation.

• Loan is FHA or VA refinance with full appraisal and visible issues.

📄 Safe Strategy: If it's a full refi with a suspicious appraiser comment, get the NPMA-33 ready.

🧑‍💼 What Realtors Should Know

Realtors are the glue in this process - make sure you’re:

• Educating clients early

• Incorporating the right forms in your timelines

• Understanding VA requirements (especially payment rules)

• Coordinating with the lender and pest companies proactively

📌 Start Here: Add termite inspections to your checklist and include NPMA-33 in your transaction documents.

💵 Who Pays for the Termite Inspection?

Here's how payment responsibilities break down by loan type:

🪖 VA Rule Reference:

Per VA Circular 26-22-11 which was released June 15, 2022 a Veteran is eligible to pay for the Termite Inspection.

So who can pay for the VA-required inspection?

• The seller

• The agent

• Or a third party

• The Veteran/Buyer

🧑‍🔧 Who's Qualified to Perform Termite Inspections in Idaho?

• Anyone in Idaho, who carries a Professional Applicator License under the Idaho Department of Agriculture.

📋 Required Forms Recap

🧠 Final Thoughts

This new termite inspection rule isn't just a box to check - it's part of protecting your investment and staying compliant in Idaho's evolving real estate market.

Whether you’re a buyer in Nampa, a seller in Kuna, a builder in Eagle, or a realtor in Coeur d’Alene, the termites have officially made it onto the checklist.

📞 Need Help Navigating the New Rules?

1st Choice Mortgage has been ahead of the curve in guiding Idaho buyers, sellers, and agents through changing requirements.

👉 Contact us today and we'll help you close with confidence.