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Termites and other wood destroying insects are a
major concern for anyone when it comes time to purchase a home. Most lending agencies
require an official Wood Destroying Insect Inspection by a licensed contractor.
The
inspection is designed to let the lending agency know that the home is basically
structurally sound. It is not a structural damage report or even a warranty as the absence
of the insects. It is a visual inspection only. There are numerous areas of the property
that are not accessible to the inspector for inspection. While there is no way to be
assured that the home is termite free, a visual inspection is still an invaluable service.
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The Wood Destroying Insect Inspection is also designed to notify
customers of potential problem areas know as conducive conditions. Conducive conditions
are conditions that will invite the termites and other insects into the home. If you are
getting your home ready to put on the market, there are some things that can be done to
help insure that the inspection goes smoothly.
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- Remove any wood that is stacked next the foundation. Having a pile of wood next to the
house is like putting out bait for termites.
- Make sure that the soil next to the home is not above the brick ledge. Not only does
this condition allow ground water to seep into the weep holes of the brick wall; it also
allows termites direct access into home.
- If the home in question has a pier and beam foundation, inspect the crawlspace! If
there are any areas of excessive moisture, you've got some work to do. Termites thrive in
rotten wood and humid areas. Any leaky shower pans or plumbing pipes will need to be fixed
in order to obtain a clear Wood Destroying Insect Report.
- Remove any excess vegetation from the exterior of the home.
- Make sure that stored items are not blocking the inspectors access to areas like the
attic & crawlspace. The inspector needs to have full access to the home in order to
perform a through inspection.
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