VA Termite Inspection Idaho 2025: What Buyers, Realtors & Builders Need to Know 🐜 Idaho Is Now a Termite State for VA Loans - Here's What That Means In June 2025, the VA made a surprise update that now requires a VA termite inspection in Idaho for all homes purchased using a VA loan. Whether you’re a veteran, a realtor, or a builder in Idaho, this change could impact your next home sale. Here's what you need to know about the new rule, who it affects, and what a termite inspection actually checks for. This applies to existing homes and new construction alike. No exceptions were made for homes already under contract, and no grandfathering was offered. The result? Real estate chaos. Let's break down what's happening, how it affects veterans, sellers, builders, and realtors, and what a termite inspection actually checks for. 🚨 What Changed with VA Termite Inspections in Idaho? Before June 25th, Idaho was considered a non-termite-risk state. Termite inspections were only ordered if the appraiser flagged issues or there was visible evidence of infestation. Now, termite inspections are mandatory for: All existing homes All new construction homes, unless the builder properly applies and certifies a chemical termite barrier This change aligns Idaho with other "termite states" like Texas and Florida. And while it may sound like overkill for a state not known for termites, the VA's reasoning is based on updated pest risk maps and a nationwide uniformity effort. 🧱 What Does a Termite Inspection Include? A VA-approved termite inspection is not just someone poking a few boards. It's a professional evaluation of any wood-destroying organisms (WDOs), including: Subterranean termites Drywood termites Carpenter ants Carpenter bees Fungus or dry rot damage Moisture conditions that could lead to future infestations Inspectors check: ✅ Crawlspaces✅ Attic beams✅ Baseboards✅ Floor joists✅ Foundation vents✅ Wood decks and porches✅ Around plumbing for moisture If infestation is found, treatment and clearance are required before closing. 🏗️ New Construction? Builders Beware. Here's where it gets tricky. The VA requires a chemical termite barrier to be applied during foundation work - often before the slab is poured. If that didn't happen and there's no proof of treatment or certification, the home is may not eligible for a VA loan - even if it's brand new and sparkling clean. 👷 Who Can Perform a VA-Approved Termite Inspection in Idaho? The VA requires inspections to be conducted by: Idaho State-licensed pest control professionals VA-recognized inspection firms Must be certified in WDO inspections and operate within Idaho regulations Always double-check that your inspector has the proper credentials and experience with VA loan processes. 💰 Who Pays for the Inspection? Good news: In Idaho, veterans are allowed to pay for the termite inspection - even under VA guidelines. However, this can still be negotiated as a seller-paid item or covered through seller concessions if needed. 🧭 What Should Realtors and Veterans Do Next? Realtors - Educate your sellers and builders NOW. Add termite inspections to your listing checklists. Veterans - Don't panic. Just make sure your loan officer and agent are on top of the new rules. Builders - Get certified barriers installed on all new homes and keep the paperwork ready. Everyone - Start termite inspections early in the transaction to avoid closing delays. ✅ Bottom Line: New VA Termite Rule, Same Mission - Get Our Veterans Home While this surprise rule change threw a wrench in the works, it's manageable with the right professionals on your team. At 1st Choice Mortgage, we're proud to be Idaho's VA loan experts, helping veterans navigate the fine print so they can focus on getting the keys to their new home. 📞 Ready to buy or sell with VA financing in Idaho? Contact us today » - We'll help you beat bugs, bureaucracy, and bad info. Boise housing tips Idaho builders Idaho real estate 2025 new VA rules realtor resources Idaho termite inspections Idaho VA compliance VA home buying rules va loan expert VA loans Idaho veteran homebuyers 1st Choice Mortgage Company, LLC Click to Call or Text: (208) 375-5626 This entry has 0 replies Comments are closed.