Extensive Termite damage is something we all cringe at hearing, especially when looking to purchase a new property. But what happens if your building inspector finds live termites within a house you are looking to purchase or has found pre-existing damage within the wall frames and roof frame.
Termites can cause serious structural damage to a home by destroying timber wall frames and timber trusses within a roof space, taking away the structural integrity of a building and putting people at risk of serious injury if areas of the building collapse.
Building inspectors will perform a non-invasive inspection at the property, meaning they cannot remove items of significance, put holes in walls or remove building materials during the initial inspection. They will check the property thoroughly for any signs of live termites, conducive areas to termite infestation or pre-existing termite damage.
So, what happens if our Building inspector finds a conducive area to termite infestation, detects live termites or finds pre-existing termite damage?
If an area of concern has been detected and noted within the report, the building inspector will recommend an invasive inspection from the required building specialist to further investigate the area. If live termites are detected a pest controller will also need to be contacted to eradicate the infestation prior to any rectification works being undertaken.
An invasive inspection normally consists of the required building specialist, normally a builder who specialises in termite damage rectification work, to come to the property once permission from the vendor has been granted and perform the invasive inspection. They will in some cases remove sections of roof lining or tiles to thoroughly inspect timber wall frames and roof trusses. In some cases, they will need to cut or remove sections of wall linings and inspect the condition of lower timber framing members that are normally inaccessible and then cover with plastic vents to leave a neat finish within the home.
The invasive inspection allows the builder to uncover the full extent of damage that may lie beyond the wall coverings and other hidden areas. They will then be able to provide a thorough damage report and provide clients with a quote for any rectification work that will need to take place to repair the damages.
It doesn’t always have to be a deal breaker when serious termite damage is found. if the correct steps are taken by conducting an invasive inspection and uncovering the full extent of damage that may be concealed, you can then negotiate with vendors and come to a fair agreement to have the damage rectified or have the sufficient money deducted from the initial asking price if you are willing to have the works completed yourself once settled.
Termite damage is unfortunately a common problem in SEQ, we hope this gives you an insight of what you can do if a professional building inspector detects live termites, conducive areas to termite infestation or uncovers pre-existing damage within a property you wish to purchase.
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