Beetle Inspection Certificates for Property Transfers in Cape Town
When buying or selling a property, a Beetle Inspection Certificate provides peace of mind by confirming whether the accessible timber structures within the property show evidence of infestation by wood-destroying beetles. At Thermo Compliance, we provide professional Beetle Inspections and Beetle Certificates for residential and commercial properties throughout Cape Town and the surrounding Western Cape.
Our experienced inspectors carry out a thorough visual assessment of all accessible wooden components, including roof timbers, exposed beams, door frames, window frames, flooring, and other structural timber elements. The inspection is designed to identify signs of active infestation or damage caused by wood-boring beetles that could affect the integrity and value of the property.
If evidence of beetle activity is found, we will provide a detailed report outlining our findings and recommend the appropriate remedial action before a Beetle Certificate can be issued. Our goal is to ensure that the transfer process proceeds smoothly while protecting both buyers and sellers from unexpected issues.
Our Beetle Inspection Services Include
- Property Transfer Beetle Inspections
- Beetle Certificates for Residential Properties
- Commercial Beetle Inspections
- Visual Assessment of Accessible Timber Structures
- Identification of Wood-Boring Beetle Damage
- Detailed Inspection Reports
- Advice on Remedial Treatments and Repairs
- Fast Turnaround Times for Property Transfers
What Does a Beetle Inspection Cover?
Our inspectors visually assess all reasonably accessible timber in the property — roof timbers and trusses, ceiling boards, exposed beams, door and window frames, skirting boards, wooden flooring, and built-in timber structures such as staircases and decking. We’re looking specifically for signs of infestation by wood-boring beetles, such as exit holes, frass (bore dust), tunnelling, or structural weakening of timber.
What’s Not Covered
The inspection is visual and limited to reasonably accessible areas — it doesn’t include invasive testing or the removal of ceilings, flooring, or wall linings, or inspection of timber that’s sealed, painted over, or otherwise structurally inaccessible without damaging the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if beetle activity is found?
We provide a detailed written report identifying the affected areas and recommend appropriate remedial treatment. Once any required treatment is complete, we can re-inspect and issue the certificate.
Do you inspect both residential and commercial properties?
Yes — our inspectors are experienced across residential homes, sectional title units, and commercial properties throughout Cape Town and the Western Cape.
Is a Beetle Certificate legally required when selling a property?
A Beetle Certificate is not a statutory requirement for every property transfer. However, it is commonly required in the Western Cape where the Offer to Purchase includes a beetle clause, or where the purchaser\u2019s bank requires a certificate as part of the bond conditions. Always check the specific terms of your sale agreement.
How long is a Beetle Certificate valid?
There is no single legally prescribed validity period for a Beetle Certificate. The certificate confirms the condition of the accessible timber at the time of inspection, and the period accepted may depend on the sale agreement, conveyancer or purchaser\u2019s bank. For this reason, it is generally advisable to arrange the inspection during the transfer process and as close to transfer as reasonably possible.
How long does a Beetle inspection take?
A typical Beetle inspection takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the property and the accessibility of timber, roof spaces and other areas being inspected. Larger or more complex properties may require additional time.
How much does a Beetle Certificate cost in Cape Town?
Pricing depends on the size of the property and the accessibility of the roof space and other timber areas that need to be inspected. Contact us for a fast, no-obligation quote for your Beetle Inspection.
Can I get a Beetle Certificate together with an Electrical or Gas Certificate?
Yes — as a multi-disciplinary compliance company, we can often arrange your Beetle Inspection alongside your Electrical Certificate of Compliance and Gas Certificate of Compliance in a single visit, which can save time during a property transfer.
Do you offer Beetle Certificates in Durbanville and other Cape Town suburbs?
Yes — we provide Beetle Inspections and Beetle Certificates throughout Cape Town and the Western Cape, including Durbanville, Bellville, Somerset West, Stellenbosch, the Southern Suburbs, Atlantic Seaboard and Southern Peninsula.
Estate agent or attorney? Log in to book faster and see your agent pricing, or apply for an agent account.
Compliance Certificate Pricing
Transparent, upfront pricing for every Certificate of Compliance we issue in Cape Town. Select your details below for an instant estimate, or scroll down and book your inspection directly. Booking more than one certificate for the same property? Save R50 on every additional certificate.
| Certificate | House — Cash Sale | Flat / Sectional — Cash Sale | House — Transfer | Flat / Sectional — Transfer |
|---|
Prices correct as of 2026 and exclude any remedial work found to be required. A final quote is confirmed once your inspection is booked. Multiple certificates booked together for one property: R50 off each certificate after the first.
Get an Instant Estimate
Answer three quick questions and see your price in real time. Book more than one certificate together and save R50 on each additional one.
Select at least one certificate to see your estimate.
Enter Your Details To Get Your Quote
Beetle certificate Cape Town: the short answers
What is a beetle certificate? A beetle certificate is a wood borer inspection report. It shows whether the exposed timber in a property, such as roof timbers, has an active beetle infestation. Buyers and banks often ask for one in a sale agreement. Thermo Group has been qualified from 2007.
How much does it cost? Use the instant estimate above for the price for your property. Each extra certificate booked together with it is R50 off.
Who pays? The seller usually arranges and pays, unless the sale agreement says otherwise.
How long does it take? Most certificates are issued within a few working days, sooner if no remedial work is needed.
How do I book? Use the instant estimate above, or call 021 203 5337 or 082 302 0683. We call back the same day.
Beetle certificate Cape Town: quick answers
What is a beetle certificate in Cape Town?
A beetle certificate is a wood borer (beetle) inspection report. An inspector checks the accessible timber in your property, such as roof timbers, and reports on any beetle activity. It is usually a condition in the sale agreement rather than a legal requirement.
How much does a beetle certificate cost in Cape Town?
With Thermo Group, a beetle certificate starts from R550 for a house and R480 for a flat on a cash sale, and from R680 for a house and R550 for a flat when the sale goes through transfer. Each extra certificate booked for the same property is R50 less. Prices exclude any remedial work found to be needed. Use the instant estimate above for your exact price.
Do I need a beetle certificate to sell my house?
Many Cape Town sale agreements ask for one, so check yours or ask your agent or conveyancer. Call us if you are not sure and we will tell you which certificates apply to your property.
How do I book a beetle inspection in Cape Town?
Get your instant estimate above and fill in your details, or call Thermo Compliance on 021 203 5337 or 082 302 0683. Our office will call you back and arrange your inspection. Estate agents and attorneys can log in here to book faster.
Is a beetle certificate required by law?
No. A beetle certificate is not a legal requirement, but it is often written into sale agreements and requested by banks and buyers, so check your deed of sale.
What does a beetle inspection look for?
The inspector checks exposed timber, such as roof timbers, for active wood borer (beetle) infestation and damage, and reports what was found.
Need other certificates too?
See all certificate types and prices on our Compliance Certificates Cape Town page.
Need a compliance certificate in Cape Town?
Electrical, plumbing, gas, fence and beetle certificates. Same-day call-back, no obligation. Qualified from 2007.
Why Choose Thermo Compliance
Trusted by Homeowners, Estate Agents & Attorneys
Thermo Compliance has earned the trust of homeowners, estate agents, property practitioners, and conveyancing attorneys across Cape Town by consistently delivering reliable compliance inspections, quality workmanship, and exceptional customer service. Our reputation is built on professionalism, integrity, and completing every project to the highest standard.
Quality Workmanship You Can Rely On
We are committed to delivering workmanship that meets and exceeds South African industry standards. Every inspection and repair is completed with meticulous attention to detail, using quality materials and proven practices to ensure your property is safe, compliant, and built to last.
Customer-First Service
At Thermo Compliance, customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. From your initial enquiry through to the completion of your inspection or repairs, our team provides clear communication, honest advice, and prompt service to make the entire process as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Book an Inspection Today
Did your inspection fail? Read what happens after a failed electrical COC inspection and how we get you your certificate.