Lets assume that in your state and the contract you are using for your offer says that you have the right to examine the property and make sure that everything is OK. Some reports are very simple. For example there are termites! yes or no. You pay very little for this report. Other reports will actually locate the termites for you by using infrared sensors to find the termites in the walls. Now the question is how much damage there is and how much will it cost to make the repairs. Most termite reports in North Carolina put responsiblity on a contractor to determine the damage and cost of repair. Sooo if the answer to the questin "do you have termites?" is yes. You will need to review your offer and determine what your next step will be. Because now you will be negotiating repairs on the home if there is damage to the home. Again you will need a contractor to make that determination and estimate of repairs. Your agent should advise you about this because every state has different contracts and provisions about negotiating repairs with or without termites.

Mon Apr 21 2008, 09:10

A termite report covers two areas of concern called "sections".

Usually the seller fixes the items in Section 1

Section 1 is concerned with actual termite or beetle infestation and dry-rot, caused by moisture.

Section 2 concerns itself with preventive measures that could lead to Section I type condition.

If you find you have termites, don't panic. Remember, termite damage is relatively slow. Most termite companies can take care of the problem.

Mon Apr 21 2008, 08:49

From the CA Real Estate forms, you would have signed a Wood Destroying Termite Form where after inspection, the termite prof. suggests the areas that need to be treated. This, almost always, is paid by the SELLER. If you request some extra work NOT included in the report, you should be paying it yourself. But since the termite grows in the ground below, I agree with Amy that you should have a continued pest/termite monitoring at least every three months. Now, if this is a condo, check with the Homeowner's Assoc, because, most of the time, this is included in the HOA dues.

All the best,
Laarni

Sun Apr 20 2008, 09:31

You need to have the seller treat the termites BEFORE you purchase that home. It involves treating the entire perimeter of the ground, including drilling into the patios and driveway. If there is damage to the inside, get reserve funds to cover it or seller to repair now, if visible. Most companies offer a warranty that is transferable, be SURE to renew it every year!

Sun Apr 20 2008, 08:02