Before you buy a property, you should get a pest inspection. While the buyer typically pays for this service, sellers may be able to negotiate a price that includes a pest inspection. If the seller is willing to pay for the inspection, the buyer will likely be happy to get it. Alternatively, you can have the seller pay for it as part of the closing costs. Regardless of whether the buyer pays for the inspection, you should get one before the closing date.
While a pest inspection is not a requirement for a home purchase, it’s a good idea to get one before closing. Having an inspection before you close is essential and will help ensure that you don’t have to deal with costly infestations after moving in. Pest inspections are relatively inexpensive and can save you money and stress later. You’ll be glad you did. And it doesn’t matter whether or not your lender or real estate agent recommends a pest inspection.
Why You Need an Inspection
Pests can cause damage to structural timber and stored wood. You should also check for rippling timber and bulging areas. These are signs that termites are active on your property. Look for mud trails or termite mounds as well.
Avoid storing things on the walls to avoid potential pests. You should also ensure your pest inspector is licensed to perform the necessary work. If you find a problem, you can refuse to purchase the property. Depending on what your inspector finds, you may even have to negotiate the property’s price.
A professional service like Peace Of Mind Pest Management can save you money regardless of how you pay for your pest inspection. It’s a good idea to get the inspection done annually to prevent infestations from occurring. Hiring a pest control company in your area is also a good idea. If you can afford it, consider hiring a professional.
Some states and counties require pest inspections before you can apply for a mortgage. For example, if you live in an area prone to termites, you should remove wood mulch from flower beds near your home. Your pest inspection will also identify signs of damage caused by these pests. Licensed pest inspectors will check the outside and interior of your home for visible signs of infestation. They will also check for damage caused by their activity, including wing holes and tunnelling.
A pest inspection is crucial for your home purchase. Even if the property appraiser’s report indicates a pest infestation, you may still not realize it. Pests not only damage the structure of a home but also make it unsanitary. Pest infestations can be expensive and difficult to remove. Your pest inspector will give you peace of mind by looking for any signs of infestation. If the inspector finds these signs, you may want to reconsider your decision to buy the property.
Process
The purpose of a pest inspection is to give you a comprehensive overview of the property’s health and condition. A pest inspector will examine areas that regular inspectors cannot see and can reveal hidden problems that a seller may have overlooked. They will also recommend ways to prevent unwanted visitors from settling in. A pest inspector will visually inspect a home’s interior and exterior, including the roof and subfloor areas. The inspector will also check if the property has proper ventilation.
The process begins with a thorough walk-through of your property. The pest inspector will check for any signs of infestation, such as droppings or areas where moisture collects. Since many pests thrive in moist environments, identifying these areas is vital to ensuring a thorough treatment plan. The inspector will use a flashlight to illuminate areas that appear unsanitary. You may also want to contact a professional pest control company if you notice any damage in any area.
A pest inspection will highlight any potential problems before they become costly, whether the inspector finds pests or just signs of infestation. For instance, a high moisture level can invite wood-decaying fungi and mice. Inspecting the home before a sale can help prevent the infestation from progressing further. A pest inspection isn’t a required part of the home sale process, but it can safeguard the home’s and its inhabitants’ health and safety.
