If you are selling or buying a home, a termite inspection is important. When a bank is financing a purchase, a termite inspection is usually required. There are several benefits of having an inspection performed before putting the house on the market. Also, both buyers and sellers should know how to look for termites.
Benefits Of A Termite Inspection For Buyers
When you are making such a big investment, you want to be sure that the home's structure is sturdy. Too many people focus only on the building materials and the condition of the foundation. However, structural supports that are made from wood can be weak if they are infested with termites. Knowing about a termite issue can save you the expense of a bad investment, and finding out about an infestation that can be removed and has not caused a lot of damage yet can save you from a large unexpected expense after you move in. If you are using a VA loan, the seller may be required to pay for the inspection.
Benefits Of A Termite Inspection For Sellers
In many areas, the market is still competitive and is in the buyer's favor. If you want a buyer to choose your home over other properties, you have to make it not only visually appealing but financially appealing as well. Many people replace outdated furnaces or air conditioners. Some people put on a new roof. One low-cost way to attract buyers is to have a termite inspection performed. If a buyer sees that this is done, that takes one major worry out of the buying process. Also, since buyers are typically responsible for inspection fees as part of the buying process, this can be an attractive discount.
Signs Of A Termite Infestation
If there are sagging ceilings, walls or doors, this could be a sign of a drywood termite infestation. They burrow through the wood and leave behind tiny pellets. Subterranean termites are more common and prefer to burrow in the ground. They build little tunnels or dirt tubes along the foundation of the home, and they usually enter underground to attack wood beams in the home. However, they are not discriminatory and will also destroy paper, wallpaper and many other items. You can also try knocking on wall areas that should sound solid. If they sound hollow, termites could be invading. You may also notice swarms or piles of shed wings.
Stay ahead of termites to protect your home. Their colonies can grow exponentially in a matter of weeks and cost you thousands in damages. We service Northern Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. Please call us for a free estimate.