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 contractor that is licensed with the Structural Pest Control Board. 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.

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Remove any excess vegetation from the exterior of the home.
5. 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 complete inspection.