Termite Inspections and the Law
Real estate transactions require termite inspection first before the process of buying a house can be possible. It is very important for a real estate property to pass pest inspection because this will determine if loaning companies will lend the buyer some money for the house. Depending on each state, lending companies require an inspection done by a pest expert before an agreement can be made.
Normally, checking for termites is done by a licensed person. This expert will be able to accurately tell if a home is indeed infested with termites, or if the problem is caused by other organisms present in the house. The inspection covers the entire home from top to bottom and may take thirty to forty five minutes to complete. However, the length of time may still vary upon the size of the house and the existence of any clutter or debris.
Why is the Inspection Required
Buying or selling a property will mostly require a request or a mandate for a termite inspection as part of the transaction in many states. In most market transactions, properties that are for sale are carried out by realtors. Lenders are also involved in the transaction by asking for a termite inspection before they released any funds from escrow. There is also a need for a termite inspection even if the transaction does not include a realtor especially if there is an escrow involved in the process. Lenders usually demand some form of home inspection that includes a checking of termite infestation so that the condition of the real estate is ensured.
The value of any property is mostly necessary in any real estate transaction. When an infestation is present and any damage has been done, this will affect the value of the real estate and will also be a determining factor during the negotiations. Another reason for a termite inspection is for the use of property tax as this is also requested. A property that does not have any findings of infestations will be valued higher than properties that have infestations, which could affect the level of taxation.
Questions to Ask During Inspection
Ask the inspector where exactly are the termites.
In most cases, active termites that are found in a piece of wood debris lying on the ground outside the home or in a crawl space access door do show any real damage to the house. However, this will indicate that an infestation is present and should be treated.
Ask the inspector for any evidence of any termites inside the structural part of the building.
This will include the floor joists, band, support girder or sill. If there are active termites get a licensed exterminator to evaluate the area and ensure that there is no sign of structural damage.
Ask the realtor about your next step.
Most realtors understand how termite damage can affect the result of a sale. If you are a buyer, ask your realtor about your next step and possible negation that is suitable for the situation. A good realtor will be able to make the seller be responsible in paying for wood replacement, fumigation, and so on. Most buyers may have second thoughts when it comes to homes with termite damage, but if all is done right, which involves having the property be treated for termites after the inspection, then this should not stop any buyer from purchasing a possible dream house.
Preventive Pest Control can handle all your termite inspections and treatments to help you close that deal. Schedule an appointment now!