Entomological inspection
Also known as: pest inspection, WDI inspection (wood-destroying insect)
Detailed inspection of a property to identify pest species, populations, entry points, and conducive conditions. The diagnostic foundation of IPM-based pest control.
An entomological inspection is a comprehensive assessment of a property's pest situation. The technician inspects: visible pest activity (live or dead specimens, droppings, damage), potential entry points (gaps around utilities, weatherstripping condition, foundation cracks), conducive conditions (moisture, food sources, harborage), and environmental factors (vegetation contact with structure, mulch type and depth, drainage).
The output is an inspection report identifying: specific pest species present, severity of infestation, entry points and conducive conditions to address, and recommended treatment approach. Quality inspections take 1-2 hours for a typical residential property; commercial inspections can take significantly longer.
For pest control operators, entomological inspection is the foundation of IPM-based service and the basis for accurate quoting. Common service patterns: initial inspection at $125-$225 (often credited toward subsequent service); quarterly recurring inspections as part of preventive contracts. Operators positioning themselves as inspectors-then-treaters (rather than spray-first) attract customers seeking thoughtful service and willing to pay premium pricing. Inspection-led approaches also reduce callback rates because root causes are addressed.
Related terms
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Strategy combining inspection, prevention, exclusion, and minimal-impact treatment to manage pests with reduced chemical use. Standard practice in commercial pest control; growing in residential.
Quarterly vs reactive pest control
Quarterly: scheduled preventive service every 3 months. Reactive: service called only when problems appear. Quarterly delivers better results at lower lifetime cost; reactive remains common.