A termite bond is an annual contract that guarantees free re-treatment if termites return. Here is what it costs, what it covers, and whether the math makes sense for your home.
A termite bond is a service agreement between you and a pest control company. After initial treatment, the bond provides ongoing protection: annual inspections, guaranteed re-treatment if termites return, and sometimes coverage for repair costs from new termite damage.
Think of it as an extended warranty for your termite treatment. You pay an annual fee, and the company takes on the financial risk of re-infestation.
| Cost Component | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Initial treatment + bond setup | $500-$2,500 |
| Annual renewal (basic) | $150-$300 |
| Annual renewal (premium) | $300-$500 |
| Standalone annual inspection | $75-$300 |
| WDO report (real estate) | $75-$200 |
$150-$300/year
$300-$500/year
Form TT-2026 / Section C
Risk Analysis Result
Bond costs ~$2,033 more than expected risk
At these inputs, the bond exceeds expected risk. Reasonable for low-risk areas or pre-treated new construction.
You pay for the bond but never need it.
Bond cost (10 yrs): $3,900
Re-treatment needed: $0
Net cost of bond: -$3,900
Peace of mind, plus annual inspections catch other issues early.
Termites return once in 10 years (56% probability in high-risk areas).
Bond cost (10 yrs): $3,900
Without bond: $1,800 re-treatment
Bond saves: -$2,100
Bond costs more than re-treatment alone, but catches damage early through annual inspections.
Termites return and cause structural damage before detection.
Bond cost (10 yrs): $3,900
Without bond: $1,800 + $8,000 repair
Bond saves: +$5,900
Premium bond with repair coverage pays for itself several times over.
| Inspection Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual inspection (standalone) | $75-$300 |
| Inspection with bond | Included |
| WDO report (real estate) | $75-$200 |
| Free inspection (with service quote) | $0 |
Most termite bonds can be transferred to a new homeowner, though some companies charge a transfer fee ($25-$100). An active, transferable termite bond is a selling point: it tells buyers the home has been professionally inspected and protected.
If you are buying a home with an existing bond, ask the seller for the bond documents: company name, coverage tier (re-treatment only vs. repair coverage), annual renewal cost, and expiration date. Have the bond company inspect the property before closing to confirm coverage transfer.