A termite inspection is essential for many reasons. In most scenarios, it is carried out when you notice some termite damage in your home. A termite inspection can also be required by a mortgage company to ensure their interest is protected. A home buyer can also request a termite inspection to know whether the home to be purchased is at risk of termites. Note a few answers to questions on termite inspections.
When Should You Have a Termite Inspection?
You don't have to wait until you notice some termite damage to have an inspection done. A termite inspection should be done before construction or before the purchase of a home, as indicated above. You should have regular termite inspections so that you can discover any infestation early, before excessive damage is done, especially in areas prone to termites.
What Is Involved in a Termite Inspection, and How Long Does It Take?
You will require the services of trained, qualified and experienced inspectors. They know what to look for to determine the presence of termites or the likelihood of a termite infestation. The inspectors will look for termites, fungal damage, plumbing leaks, water damage, standing water and earth-to-wood contacts. The process does not take long, maybe an hour. It might take longer if there are termites and you want to have them eliminated or if you want preventative measures taken. It can also take longer if the inspection may require a more invasive inspection.
Indicators of termite infestation may include but are not limited to hollowed-out wood, mud tunnels and termite swarming.
What Happens After an Inspection?
The pest control company will issue a report or certification of its findings. This document is essential, especially for mortgage companies or for home buyers. It indicates when an inspection was performed and what was found, helping lenders know whether to disburse money and home buyers whether to purchase a home or have the price lowered.
What Conditions Present a Good Habitat for Termite Infestation?
Poor drainage and water leaks against external walls or into the subfloor increase the risk of a termite infestation. Consult a plumber to check or repair such leaks.
Weep holes should not be covered by soil, concrete paths, lawn or pavers. These are gaps left between bricks for ventilation purposes. If the weep holes are covered, termite entry may be hard to detect.
The edge of the slab should also not be concealed by paving, turf, landscaping, soil, tiles, render, adjoining structures or cladding. If concealed, termite entry or infestation may not be identified.
