Buying a home is one of the most significant financial commitments you’ll make in your lifetime, and there’s nothing worse than buying a property with hidden flaws. These problems can result in unexpected repair bills, and if they’re serious, they could easily cost thousands of dollars to fix. Even worse, you might have to add these unexpected costs to your mortgage, thereby increasing repayments significantly. Therefore, a pest inspection is a great idea before you sign on the dotted line.
During a pest inspection, the inspector will identify both immediate and potential pest problems, as well as evidence of previous infestations and damage. Depending on the level of infestation, the inspector may also identify drainage or building faults that could be conducive to pests. Furthermore, a good Pest Control Knoxville TN inspector will note environmental issues such as standing water or overhanging tree branches. Once the inspector has identified the areas with pest infestations, he can provide you with a “Pest Clearance” certificate or a “Termite Clearance” after the inspection.
A pest inspection may take from thirty minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the home and the extra areas it involves. The inspector will note any damage that he or she finds and discuss how to treat the infestations. If the inspector finds evidence of pest activity, he or she will suggest treatments for you to take care of the problem before the inspection is repeated. If the inspector finds no evidence of infestation, the inspection may need to be repeated at a later date.
Many purchase contracts contain a termite contingency clause, which if termites are found in the home, enables the buyer to withdraw from the deal. Additionally, a pest inspector may look for pests that are specific to the area. For example, fire ants may access homes through HVAC systems. Rattlesnakes, on the other hand, may sneak into yards through wrought iron fencing. In some areas, white-throated woodrats can be a problem. These rodents are notorious for causing thousands of dollars worth of damage to homes.
A pest inspection is a vital step in the buying or selling process. Not only will a pest inspection give you peace of mind and a higher sale price, but it will also give you the confidence to call an exterminator before your buyers come knocking. Pest inspections are a vital part of a pest-free home, and if you want to avoid having to pay for termite treatment, a pest inspection is a must.
A pest inspection will cover your home’s interior and exterior, and the inspector will look for any obvious signs of infestation. The inspector may also examine the condition of electrical wiring and paint. They’ll also look for mud tubes, which are tunnels that subterranean termites build to travel. Pest inspections are also essential for the protection of your investment. If you suspect that your home is infested with pests, a pest inspection will help you avoid legal issues and make a wise choice.
A pest inspection will reveal hidden issues that a general home inspection cannot detect. It may also reveal the presence of native pests, such as scorpions and rattlesnakes. Even if you’re confident in your abilities, you may not be able to determine the full extent of an infestation or its impact on your property. It’s always best to get a professional pest inspection so you can be sure that the property is pest-free.
During a pest inspection, the inspector will look for actual pests as well as areas that could attract them. Wood mulch in flower beds is a good example of an environment that may be a breeding ground for termites and other pests. This is why you should make sure that you remove any wood mulch in flower beds near your house. Additionally, a pest inspector will look for signs of pest damage on your property, which can be an indication of pest infestation. A trained inspector will thoroughly check your home’s interior and exterior, including the crawl space, basement, and attic.
Another option is to pay for the pest inspection upfront. The price for a pest inspection depends on how many bugs are in your home and how severe they are. Many homeowners elect to pay for a pest inspection before listing their home. However, if you find a serious infestation later, it could cost you thousands of dollars. A professional inspection will ensure that you won’t be saddled with a large bill. You could also opt for a follow-up inspection before closing.