A. A
termite inspection, also called a pest inspection, is a visual
inspection of a building by a state licensed professional. The
inspection will comprise of a search for evidence of termite infestation
and damage to the structure caused by any such termite activity. The
inspection will also look for conditions that are conducive to
infestations developing such as standing water, plumbing leaks and wood
to earth contact. All accessible areas of the house, including
crawlspaces and the exterior will be covered by the inspection. If there
is no crawlspace, the attic will be inspected. An average inspection
will take about 60 minutes and the findings are recorded in a report.
Q. Is It a Legal Requirement in California?
A.
California state law does not mandate that an inspection be done prior
to the sale of property. However, in many cases, mortgage bankers do
require that the inspection be done so as to protect their investment.
It should be noted that the inspector is not responsible for any
infestation or signs of one that may appear after the inspection date.
For this reason it is a good idea to have the inspection done as close
as possible to the close of escrow. Some buyers include a termite
contingency in the purchase terms which will enable them to withdraw
from the transaction if termite damage should be found.
Q. How do I find the Right Pest Control Company?
A.The
pest control industry in California is highly regulated. Look for a
company that is licensed by the Structural Pest Control Board to do
inspections. Contact a few companies and check out their qualifications,
experience and the technology that they use to control any termite
infestations that may be found. Also ask for references and contact
others who have used these service to see what their experience has
been.
Q. What should be included in the Report?
A.
California law demands that the report includes information on any wood
destroying insects that may be found along with the presence of fungus,
Details of structural damage, if any, present on the date of the
inspection,should be noted. Conditions that are conducive to
infestations developing such as stagnant water, faulty grade levels etc.
should also be noted. A diagram that shows the parts of the house that
have been inspected and also where infestations have been found must
form part of the report. Areas not inspected because of inaccessibility,
must be mentioned. Recommendations for treatments of infestations
and repairs to be done, should also be given in the report.
Q. Who can see the Report?
A.
When a termite extermination company is hired to do an inspection, it
is accountable to both the seller and the buyer, irrespective of who has
paid for the inspection. The person ordering the
inspection must receive a copy of the report within 10 days of the
inspection, being done. A copy of the report should then handed over to
the buyer or seller, as the case may be. The escrow company will
normally ask for a copy of the report.
More FAQs will be covered in the next blog.
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