What’s more exciting than purchasing a new home? Buyers may envision themselves growing old in the house, all of the wonderful memories to come, or what renovations they’ll make. Few people consider potential pest problems; especially those not visible to the naked eye.
A standard home inspection will assess the physical structure of the home, including the roof and foundation. A more specific pest inspection will detect conditions conducive to infestations and prevent buyers from uncovering costly damage down the line.
When touring a new home, keep an eye out for the following signs:
Termites:
Termites, known as the silent destroyers, can cause severe damage to a home’s structure by chewing through the wood, flooring, and even wallpaper. Clear signs of a termite infestation include: mud tubes, hollow sounding wood, damaged decks or wooden fences, and piles of discarded wings. (Click here to learn more about termites.)
Carpenter Ants:
Similar to termites, Carpenter Ants will feast on wood softened by moisture. Be on the lookout for moisture damage and piles of what looks like sawdust.
Mice and Rats:
Rodents enter homes looking for shelter, food and water. Signs of a rodent infestation include: sightings of droppings, scratching noises, gnawed wires, and gathered loose papers.
Bed Bugs:
While bed bugs are not as common in a home as they are in an apartment, it’s not impossible. Be especially careful when items like sofas and beds are left behind. If you are purchasing a new townhome or condo, be on high alert for bed bug infestations. It’s a good idea to ask the property manager about previous bed bug problems.
Know before you buy. Before making one of the largest, most important purchases of your life, request an inspection by a licensed pest control professional. Contact the Knockout team to ensure one of the happiest moments in your life is pest free.