Buying or Selling a Home?

WHY INSPECT?

Every year thousands of homes are attacked by termites or other wood destroying pests. Home purchasers need to know if these pests are present before investing their money. 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 findings.

WHO ORDERS AN INSPECTION?

A pest control firm may be selected by the seller or his 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 in some cases as a buyer you can make the selection.

IS THE REPORT FOR TERMITES ONLY?

No. The Subterranean termite is the number one wood destroying pest in the United States, hence, its name is often attached to the so-called "Termite Report." There are other wood destroying insects, including some other species of termites, that may also be included in the report, such as:

• DRY WOOD TERMITES - Usually found in southern and southwestern areas of the country;
   
• DAMPWOOD TERMITES - Found in the Pacific northwest and northern California; and
    
• BEETLES - (1) powder post beetles - small beetles whose larvae feed in hardwood such as oak, (2) anobiid beetles - small beetles whose larvae feed in softwood such as pine, and (3) old house borers - rather large beetles whose larvae feed in softwood timbers.
   
• CARPENTER ANTS - Usually possible when moisture problems are common in the area.

In some areas, the report may include wood rot this is caused by a combination of moisture and fungal growth and can be very destructive.

ARE THESE INSECTS FOUND IN ALL HOUSES THROUGHOUT THE U.S.?

The distribution and occurrence of these insects is regional. Subterranean termites are distributed throughout most of the United States. However, drywood and dampwood termites are localized in specific parts of the United States. The beetles can also be a regional problem. Your local pest control company can tell you about the occurrence and importance of these insects in your region.

WHAT DOES THE INSPECTION ENTAIL?

A qualified representative from the licensed pest control company will perform the inspection. The inspector looks at all visible areas of the structure which are readily accessible. If the inspector finds evidence of an infestation, the inspector reports these evidences on a specified form. An inspection may include sounding or probing areas where infestations are suspected.

The inspector cannot see behind walls, paneling, into voids of cinder block walls or under carpeting. Infestations here may remain undetected. All parties must read and understand the report.

DOES THE REPORT GUARANTEE THERE IS NO INFESTATION?

No! The report gives the findings of a trained inspector who searched for visual evidence of these pests in the readily accessible areas of the structure. It states that wood destroying pests were or were not found by the inspector in these visible areas. The possibility remains that an infestation may be hidden inside a wall void or beam.

WHAT IF EVIDENCE OF AN INFESTATION IS FOUND?

The company will recommend and usually propose appropriate treatment to control the pest. For termites, a treatment may be warranted for a year or longer, usually meaning if an infestation is found while the warranty is in effect, the company will retreat at no charge to you.

WHAT HAPPENS IF DAMAGE CREATED
BY THESE PESTS IS OBSERVED?

"Damage" is an alarming term. It may be superficial or quite extensive. Damage is evidence of infestation, but evidence might not include damage. Some companies make estimates on the repair of the damage if they feel it is necessary. Most companies do not have the expertise and will recommend a qualified building contractor. However, in some states it is common for companies to make the repairs.

HOW DO I SELECT A PEST CONTROL COMPANY
TO INSPECT MY HOUSE?

Recommendations from people who have had satisfactory experiences with a pest control company in the past is one method of selecting a firm. If you must select a company at random, you can check with your local Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, or your state agency governing pesticide regulation.

Companies belonging to the national Pest Management Association or state pest control associations have joined together in an effort to promote professionalism. They are also consumers and share your concerns; seek ways to improve; and are responsive to your needs. For a list of member firms of the National Pest Management Association in your area, search our web site database at www.pestworld.org.

Developed by the Consumer Affairs Committee of NPCA.
Revised by the NPMA Staff.