IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR HOMEOWNERS CONCERNING TERMITES

An extraordinary example of termite tube construction in a crawl space


Why inspect?
Every year, thousands of homes are attacked by termites or other wood boring pests. Home purchasers need to know if these pests are present before investing their money. It is wise to have the property inspected by a trained professional from a reputable company.

What the consumer needs to know about clearance letters or wood infestation reports issued for real estate transactions.
Who orders an inspection?
An Inspection Service Firm may be selected by the seller or his agent, lending institution, or buyer, depending on the state's real estate laws or established practice. A trained professional will perform the inspection. He inspects all areas of the structure which are visible and are readily accessible to him. If he finds evidence of an infestation, he reports these findings on a specified form. An inspection may include sounding or probing areas where infestations are suspected. The inspection is performed for a nominal fee, usually paid by the seller.
Is the report for termites only?
Not always. The Subterranean Termite is the number one wood-destroying pest in the United States; hence its name is often attached to the so-called "Termite Report". There are other wood destroying insects, however, which may also be included in the report:
  • Powder Post Beetles
    Small beetles whose larvae feed in hard wood, like Oak

  • Old House Borers
    The larvae feed in soft wood, like Pine

  • Carpenter Ants
    Usually evident when moisture problems are prevalent In some areas, the report may include wood rot, which is caused by a combination of moisture and fungus growth, and can be very destructive.
Does a clearance or termite report guarantee there is no infestation?
No!!! The report gives the findings of a trained professional inspector who searched for visual evidence of these pests in the accessible areas of the structure. The report states that wood-destroying organisms were or were not found by the inspector in these visible areas. The possibility exists that an infestation may be hidden inside a wall void or beam, under carpeting, or other inaccessible area. For these reasons, it is generally recommended that the homeowner have periodic inspections for future protection.
What if evidence of an infestation is found?
The company will recommend and usually propose appropriate treatment to control the pest. For termites, a treatment is usually guaranteed for a year or longer, meaning that if an infestation is found while the guarantee is in effect, the company will re-treat at no charge.
What happens if damage created by these pests is observed?
"Damage" is an alarming term. It may be superficial or quite extensive. Damage is evidence of infestation, but evidence may not include damage. Normally, the integrity of the structure must be compromised to constitute structural damage that must be repaired.

Vermillion & Company Extermination offers our Inspection Service, with over 30 years of experience, to assist you in the sale or purchase of your home.

Please contact us for more information.

  • Roaches and Water Bugs
  • Fleas and Ticks
  • Ants, Crickets, and Spiders
  • Wasps and Hornets
Treatments are GUARANTEED AGAINST REINFESTATION FOR ONE YEAR!

We also offer rodent baiting and extermination consultation services.
We invite your questions and your business.
WE ARE "AT YOUR SERVICE."
Vermillion & Company Extermination - PO Box 7227 - Richmond, VA 23221 - 804 353-3226
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