When it comes to making sure that the residential property you plan to purchase is free from termite infestations, you need to subject it to an escrow inspection, or what many homeowners simply refer to as termite inspection. An escrow inspection, however, refers specifically to a termite inspection done on any home or property you plan to buy.
While an escrow inspection can take some time, there are a few things you can do to prepare your home prior to the procedure. This ensures that no space, nook or cranny is left uninspected, making the task easier for the inspector and saving you potential problems in the future.
Indoor preparations you can do
An indoor escrow inspection will have to be thorough, given the fact that termites can thrive and hide under complicated woodwork and other hard-to-reach areas. To make the inspection easier for the inspector and more comprehensive, make sure that you clear the walls of anything, such as hanging frames or any other decorative items. Since the attic is usually filled with storage items and may accumulate unchecked moisture over time, it can easily attract termites and other wood-boring pests. As much as possible, clean the attic of anything that may hamper an escrow inspection. Cabinets under the kitchen sink and bathroom sink will have to be cleared of any stored items and clutter as well. Anything that blocks potential access points for the escrow inspector, such as furniture and appliances, will have to be set aside before the actual check-up begins.
Preparing the exterior of your home
If you want to make sure that no subterranean termites are infesting the perimeter of your home, you might want to have the exterior of the property inspected as well. An exterior escrow inspection can save you a lot of trouble later on, especially if the property is prone to termites that live underground. To make the inspection faster and more effective, take time to remove any debris around the borders of the home. Most inspectors require two feet of unobstructed space, at the very least, in order to work. Bushes or plants that grow adjacent to the wall will have to be trimmed or temporarily removed. Inspecting the garage and tool shed will also be easier if clutter is eliminated prior to the escrow examination.
With these simple preparation tips for an escrow inspection, you are assured of a more thorough and stress-free examination of your home from termites both inside and out.
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