Termites are uninvited, tiny guests that feed on the bones of your home. These silent destroyers are usually found in the hidden spots of the building. It is not easy to assess their presence and the loss they have caused.
Their presence can be felt due to some signs, but an inspection is always needed before taking any steps to deal with them. A termite inspection report describes every single detail a homeowner or a homebuyer needs to know. Let’s understand what is included in a termite inspection report.
What is a Termite Inspection Report?
A termite inspection report, also known as a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Report, is a detailed document prepared by a licensed inspector after a thorough termite inspection of a property. This report contains information about the presence of termites, ants, beetles, and wood borers.
What is Included in a Termite Inspection Report?
A termite inspection report has every single detail about the presence of the insect, the damage caused, and suggestions to treat them. The report contains:
General Information of Property
Like other inspection reports, this report also starts with the basic information about the property. It contains details about the address, date of inspection, information about the inspector, and whether it was a limited or full-access inspection.
Findings of the Inspection
It’s the most focused part of the report. The inspector documents the findings in this section of the termite inspection report. It contains details about living or dead insects, visible signs of infestation in the form of mud tubes, exit holes, or galleries in wood, or the signs of damage.
This may also include information about the type of termites present in the home. If it states that there is no evidence of termites, then it is a big relief for the homeowner.
Damage Description and Recommendations
If termites are found in a home, this section describes the damage caused by them. It describes the areas affected by termites and the structures infested by insects in the homes. Even the details of damaged furniture can be included in this section. The inspector can add recommendations about the needed repair work according to the vulnerability of the affected areas.
The homebuyers focus on this section to ask the homeowner for the repair and to negotiate on the price of the property.
Obstruction or Inaccessible Areas
The homebuyers should never skip this section. This part of a termite inspection report contains details about inaccessible areas for the inspector to check. There can be any reason for blocking the visibility of the areas, it can be due to:
- Placement of furniture
- Storage of some goods in the area
- Not accessible due to construction work
- Unsafe for the inspector to step there
It is difficult for the home inspector to move heavy furniture and inspect every single inch. Secondly, sealed walls and ceilings can’t be checked. Unsafe areas indicate that there can be a flooded basement or a weak attic.
Previous Treatment History
If the inspector finds any signs of previous treatment history related to pest infestation, it is mentioned in the report. These signs can be drill holes or trenching marks. If the seller discloses information about the history of termite treatment, the inspector adds it in the report as part of the record.
What Should a Homebuyer Do if Termite is Found in the Home?
The homebuyers don’t need to panic due to the presence of termites. They should act in the following ways:
Get an Estimate for Treatment and Repairs
Homebuyers can contact a reputable pest control company to treat the termites in their homes. Even if there is small damage, it is necessary to control them. The homebuyer should also get an estimate of the repairs according to the damage mentioned in the termite inspection report.
Negotiate with the Seller
The homebuyer should sit at the negotiation table once the presence of termites is found in the home. Depending on the severity of the damage, they should ask for the repair work and negotiate the price.
Conclusion
A new home can be full of surprises, even those that can cost a new homeowner. Termites can affect the structural integrity of a home. Their presence in a home poses a risk of significant issues.
That’s why having a termite inspection is crucial before buying a home. If you are also planning to buy a home, you should schedule a termite inspection too, along with a regular inspection. A termite inspection report will help make a good decision about buying the home.
