Buying
or Selling a Home?
Each
year, Mite-E Exterminating performs hundreds of wood-destroying insect
inspections, commonly called a "termite inspection." Thorough
inspection can determine whether infestations are present and if remedial
control measures are needed.
Why Inspect?
Home
purchasers need to know if termites or other wood destroying insects
are present before investing their money. Lending institutions (banks,
savings and loans, FHA and VA) often require houses to be inspected
for wood destroying insects prior to financing or refinancing a home.
Therefore it is wise to have the property inspected by a representative
of a licensed pest control company who can detect the presence of
wood destroying pests and can provide a report on his/her findings.
What Does
The Report Cover?
This
inspection covers subterranean termites and other wood destroyinginsects.
However there are other wood destroying insects that may also be included
in the report, such as powder post beetles and carpenter ants.
Who Orders
an Inspection?
A
pest control firm may be selected by the seller or his/her agent,
lending institution, or buyer, depending on the state's real estate
laws or established practice. As a purchaser, you should be advised
as to which company is doing the inspection and as a buyer, you can
make the selection.
What Does
the Inspection Entail?
A
thorough inspection is performed to the inside and outside of the
house or structure, including the garage or other out buildings on
the property. The inspection is "visual" and does not involve
drilling or removing closed wall board (i.e. removal of drywall or
siding). If the inspector finds evidence of an infestation, the inspector
records these evidences on a specified form which includes a simple
diagram of the structure(s) inspected indicating location(s) of wood
destroying insect activity and the types of treatment available.
Is the Report
for Termites Only?
No.
There are many wood destroying insects, including the subterranean
termite, that may also be included in the report, powder post beetles
and carpenter ants.
What if Evidence
of an Infestation is Found?
DO
NOT PANIC!!!
If
wood destroying insects or damage is detected, the lending institution
usually requires that the property be treated. Mite-E Exterminating
will recommend appropriate treatment to control the pest(s).
The
method, or combination of treatments recommended, will depend on the
specifics of your home and infestation. After the initial treatment,
periodic inspections of accessible areas are usually recommended to
monitor its effect and determine if any additional treatment is necessary.
Does the
Report Guarantee There is No Infestation?
No.
Both the seller and the buyer should be aware that by law, this report
covers only what an inspector concludes from what is visible on the
date of the inspection. This means that a report indicating no visible
infestation is no guarantee that these insects are totally absent
from the home. The possibility remains that an infestation may be
hidden inside a wall void or beam.
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