TIP is an acronym that stands for Termite Infestation Probability, and the TIP map divides up the U.S. into zones according to the likelihood of subterranean termites infesting a house. The four zones range from “Very Heavy” to “None to Slight” probability and, since termites are moisture-dependent and do not tolerate severely cold weather, the Southeastern states and California are rated as the highest risk areas for termite infestation. 

The map was originally published by the U.S. Forest Service as part of an old termite prevention bulletin, then updated based on newer data in the 1980s. It is significant because the TIP Zone Map is used by VA and some other mortgage lenders to determine if a termite inspection will be required as part of the loan approval process. “Very Heavy” and “Moderate to Heavy” zones require the WDO (Wood Destroying Organism) inspection by the VA. Also, the International Residential Code (IRC) uses the map as a guide for local building officials to determine areas where termite-prevention soil treatment is necessary at the footprint of a new home.  

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To learn more about termites, see these other blog posts:

• Should I be worried about termites if my neighbor's house is being tented?

• Is the WDO (termite) inspector allowed to poke holes in my wood siding and trim? 

• Do carpenter ants cause structural damage to houses in Florida?

• How long before closing can you have a WDO (termite) inspection done?

• How long does Bora-Care® last? 

• Why is it a mistake to store lumber in the crawl space under a house?

• Does the presence of carpenter ants in a house indicate that there are probably also termites? 

• How do termites infest a house and remain hidden while doing major damage?

• Are homes in Florida required to have termite protection? 

• If termite damage appears to be old, does that mean that termites may no longer be present?

• How do I know if my WDO/termite report is "clear"? 

• When do termites swarm in Florida?

• Does a recent termite company inspection sticker mean there are no termites? 

• What are the green plastic discs in the ground around the house? 

• What is a termite shield?

• How do termites get into a concrete block house? 

• Do termites eat concrete?

• What is a clean WDO?  

• What do termites eat?

   Visit our TERMITES, WOOD ROT AND PESTS page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.