1. What Is a Termite (Wood-Destroying Insect) Inspection?
A termite inspection, officially known as a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) or Wood-Destroying Organism (WDO) inspection, is a professional evaluation of a property for evidence of wood-destroying insects, like termites, dry rot, and fungus. Certified professionals assess both the interior and exterior of a home, including foundations, crawl spaces, attics, and entry points, for signs of infestation or damage.
If any evidence is found, repairs must be made before a VA Notice of Value (NOV) can be issued.
2. Why Are Termite Inspections Needed for VA Loans?
The Department of Veterans Affairs requires termite inspections in areas where wood-destroying pests are known to be common. This requirement protects veterans from purchasing homes with hidden structural risks. According to the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), homes must be free from termite damage, fungus, and dry rot—whether through initial appraisal observations or targeted pest reports.
3. Has Colorado Always Required Termite Inspections for VA Loans?
Only in some counties—ranked moderate to heavy risk on historical maps—were inspections mandatory. The rest of the state was exempt unless the appraiser spotted evidence of pest damage.
However, confusion arose in late June 2025, when the VA’s website briefly (and incorrectly) stated that termite inspections were required statewide. This was a website error, later clarified by VA.
In reality, the longstanding policy continued unchanged until more recently.
4. When Did the VA Change Its Policy?
On July 1, 2025, the VA updated its local requirements—without fanfare—to formally include certain Colorado counties as mandatory termite inspection zones. Now, if a home sits within those designated areas, a WDI/WDO inspection using the NPMA-33 form is required before a Notice of Value may be issued.
5. Why This Matters for VA Buyers in Colorado
This unannounced change has created delays—appraisals can’t be finalized, nor loans issued, until the termite inspection is completed and included in the appraisal package.
Even in areas where inspections aren’t mandatory, if an appraiser spots any signs of infestation, a full inspection is still required before moving forward.
6. How We Handle Inspections—and Help VA Home Buyers
Here’s how we ensure a smooth and efficient inspection process:
- We can perform stand alone termite inspections or if you are using us for your home inspection we can get it all done at the same time! This will help save time and money as our bundled home and termite inspection has a great discount.
- Our inspector will provide the required NPMA-33 form within 24 hours.
7. Why Choose Us for Your VA Termite Inspection Needs
Up-to-date knowledge: We’re closely tracking VA updates—your inspection won’t be blindsided by rule changes like the one in July 2025.
Efficiency-driven: By aligning the termite inspection with other inspections, we save you time and protect your closing timeline.
Closing support: We’ll help ensure the NOV isn’t delayed—so your loan, and your move-in, stay on track.
