A Sydney pest inspection a must when buying a property
A pest inspection is usually performed as part of a building and pest inspection when a property is changing hands. Many lending agencies and banks actually require a pest inspection to be completed before they will finalise a mortgage.
There are many different types of pests and wood destroying organisms (WDO) that can cause problems within a home, and potentially cost homeowners hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in repairs if problems are not discovered quickly enough.
What type of pests does an inspector look For?
Pest inspectors look for numerous different types of pests that can cause damage to a home. This usually includes:
- Termites
- Ants
- Beetles
- Bees
- Fungi
- Dry Rot
- Other types of pests that may be specific to the geographical area
Where do Sydney pest Inspectors look?
Pest inspectors will typically look at the entire property both inside and out.
Outside
Pest inspectors generally check all areas up to about 50m within the boundary of the property. Fence lines are a common feeding group for termites, as are any wooden outbuildings such as storage sheds and garages. Any trees and tree stumps will also be inspected, as they are ideal places for termites to nest. Closer to the property, all gardens, wooden edging, and cubby houses and other out buildings are also inspected.
Exterior of the home
Any good local pest inspector will pay particular attention to this area. The outside of a home can be very useful when detecting termites. Gardens with soil right up to the house can include a major food source, which can entice termites into the home. Sprinkler systems and leaking taps is often more than enough moisture for a termite colony to move in and begin eating away at any wooden structures including the house. Weep holes are also inspected for clearance and posts, lattice work, pergolas, and any other wooden structures are also checked for signs of termite damage.
Interior of the home
Inside the home, the inspector will look at all interior walls, cornices and skirting boards for termite and insect damage. When termites attack these areas, they often eat most of the wood and leave the paint, and in many cases, the homeowner doesn’t even realise. Particular attention is paid to all damp areas such as the bathroom, laundry room, kitchen, and shower, as moisture can attract termites. The inspector should also look at the roof cavity space and any subflooring that the home may have.
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