How to Hire a Termite Inspector
Before you sell a home, or if you plan to buy one, hiring the right termite inspector can save you money and headaches in the long run.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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1
Look in the yellow pages under Pest Control for a licensed, bonded and insured company, or get a referral from a local real estate agent.
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2
Call several companies and get a quote for the cost of inspecting the home.
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3
Compare rates. If you are just having an inspection for the purpose of buying or selling a home, the cost shouldn't vary too much. If you want a monthly pest control service, find out what guarantees the company gives if an infestation returns before the next service call.
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4
Request a copy of work done and clearance before signing any real estate papers.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Buying or selling a home usually requires a clear pest control report. The inspector looks for termite infestation as well as other pest infestation, plumbing leaks, obvious roof leaks, dry rot and water damage.
Once the inspection is complete, note it on the termite report findings marked "Section I" and "Section II." Section I items are immediate problems that must be fixed or addressed before a clearance can be given. Section II items are not a problem now but could become a problem in the future, and do not require immediate attention or repair for a clearance.
Sellers typically pay for Section I repairs and leave Section II repairs up to the buyers.
The inspector is not responsible for inspecting areas that are inaccessible. Find out what areas are inaccessible and do what you can to open them up.
Pest control inspection companies that also do repair work recommended on the report are typically more expensive than a general contractor or repair person.
