Q:  We recently re-financed our property on the seacoast.  During the process with the V.A., we were mandated to have several inspections.  We had a home inspector come and check things out with no problems noted, our septic tanks and lines were all fine, and the radon tests were negative.  We have never had any real pest issues and were surprised to find out we also needed a pest inspection.  If we have not had any problems, why do we need to take that extra step?

A:  There are many reasons for a pest inspection.  Pest inspections are a crucial part of Real Estate transactions.  Many lenders require an inspection for wood destroying organisms in order to process loans for the sale or re-financing of properties.  Homeowners need to know if pests are damaging their homes.  Commercial interests such as restaurants, grocery stores, rental properties, storage facilities, offices, and warehouses all have special needs with respect to pest activity.  Pest inspections are a cost effective way to monitor for pest activity.  A trained pest inspector can see things that may be overlooked by others, and tell you if the activity is recent or from past activity.  In some cases treatment is recommended if there are signs of old activity and no warranty is present.  Termite inspectors complete form NPMA-33, an industry standard document that is used to report on the current conditions of structures being inspected. This document has a list of specific guidelines that must be followed during the inspection.  There is no warranty with this inspection due to the limited scope and limitations sited.  Paper work provided is only viable until the closing of the loan or sale.  Form NPMA-33 along with the attached diagram of the structure is a great snapshot of the conditions at the time of the inspection.  Any insect activity, damage, etc. must be noted on page 1, and specific guidelines dictate recommendations.  Page 2 describes the inspection, limitations of the inspection, and any disclaimers.  Page 2 is never changed and can be viewed or printed online.  The inspection also has page 3, Addendum 1, section V.  This addendum is a diagram of the structure based on the foundation elements. Any damage or insect activity will be noted on the diagram. Although most licensed termite inspectors have the ability to offer pest control services to control termites and other pests, they are bound to provide a truthful statement about their observations.  In all honesty, about one house in 15 that I inspect has an issue that needs treatment.  In my case, working with Colonial Pest Control Inc., I am able to not only inspect your property, but also offer treatment and recommendations to solve any pest problem we may encounter during the inspection.  If you need a pest inspection for piece of mind, re-financing, or sale/purchase of a home, call Colonial Pest Control Inc.  Inspections for real estate transactions, financing, or suspected activity can be done year round.  We supply all paperwork and complete most inspections in under an hour!  Call Colonial Pest Control Inc. for all your inspection needs, we offer free estimates for wildlife control, and service a wide area in New Hampshire and Eastern Massachusetts.   Call us at 1-800-525-8084

Tim Chace

2/05/2016

Photo Credit : Chris Baranski | CC BY 2.0