Why Do I Need Termite Inspections?
1. Q. Why do I need a
termite inspection?
A. Many lenders require it, so they can be sure there are no
active termite infestations in any home they finance. If you're buying,
you want to be sure you're not buying termites and termite damage along
with your new house.
2. Q. How long does the inspection take? What's
involved?
A. Usually, it takes less than an hour. A skilled, experienced
inspector will check the entire house thoroughly, from foundation to
roof. He knows exactly where to look for telltale signs of the presence of
termites or other wood destroying insects, and any damage. His tools may
include a flashlight, a rubber mallet, a screwdriver or other probe, and
perhaps a small long-handled mirror for inspecting the hard-to-reach areas
where termites are often found.
3. Q.
What if no evidence of termites is found?
A. You will receive written
notification stating that no visible evidences of infestation have been
found in the accessible areas that were checked.
4. Q. How do subterranean termites get into a
house?
A. Very easily. All they need is an opening 1/64'' wide. They
may enter directly from the soil, or they may build airtight tubes leading
from their colony in the soil to the wood of your house. They usually
commute daily between the wood and their colony.
5. Q. How important is thoroughness in termite
inspections?
A. Very important, because an undetected termite infestation
could result in damage later.
6. Q. Is
an annual re-inspection contract advisable?
A. YES, with a reputable
pest control operator. The cost is reasonable compared to the damage
termites can do if they get ahead of you. It automatically keeps you
from forgetting to have it done.
7. Q.
How can I recognize a reliable termite firm?
A. Ask pointed questions about their business history and their people.
Find out how well trained their inspection personnel are, and if the
company belongs to local, state or national pest control
associations.
8. Q. Are there other
wood destroying insects besides termites?
A. Yes. Besides the most common
the subterranean termite-there are other kinds of termites, as well as
wood destroying beetles, carpenter ants and carpenter bees. Pest control
professionals know how to identify them and treat for them.
9. Q. What if the inspection shows termites or other
wood destroying insects are present?
A. Then it will be necessary
to treat the property to prevent any further infestation or damage.
10. Q. If treatment is needed, must I use the same
firm that did the inspection?
A.
Not if you don't want to. You can always pay
for a second opinion, and arrange for any treatment with whomever you
wish.
11. Q. If a treatment is needed,
what might be the cost?
A.
Costs vary widely, and no meaningful answer can be given until the
inspection is completed, the size and structure of the home determined,
and other factors assessed. It is important to remember, however, that the
cost of termite treatment is minor when compared to the equity and
investment represented in a home.
12.
Q. Could I do it myself?
A.
NO, since special equipment
and application techniques are required. Thoroughly trained and
experienced personnel have the skills necessary to do the job
properly.
13. Q. What if there already
is extensive damage?
A.
If the damage threatens the soundness or
appearance of the structure, it must be repaired. This is a specialized
type of work, but your Termite Control Representative is familiar with it and
can help you arrange for repairs.
14.
Q. Termites won't attack a new house, will they?
A. YES, Unfortunately, even before it is completed.
