(The follow is a guest blog written by Katarina Smith with Bug-N-A-Rug)
As a homebuyer, you may be wondering if termite prevention is something that you need to worry about. As areas that are near a body of water or in a humid climate are considered at high risk for wood-destroying insects, we highly recommend investing in a termite inspection, or WDIR, if you live in the Wilmington area.
What is a WDIR?
A Wood Destroying Insect Report (WDIR) is a report required by most lenders that identifies any wood-destroying insects found during a home inspection. The WDIR will also identify if there is any past or current evidence of infestation and/or damage.
What Insects does a WDIR Identify?
The most common wood-destroying insects in North Carolina include:
* Subterranean Termites
* Old House Borers
* Powder Post Beetles
* Carpenter Ants
* Carpenter Bees
Are WDI Reports Required by the State of North Carolina?
While WDI Reports are not legally required by North Carolina state law during the process of buying, selling, or refinancing a house, most lenders will require a WDIR if the property
being purchased is located in an area known to have a high population of wood-destroying insects, such as Wilmington. In North Carolina, we use Form No. WDIR 100 for reporting the presence or absence of wood-destroying insects in structures for sale. Any company performing an inspection must be licensed by the Structural Pest Control Division in order to issue this report.
What are the Benefits of a WDIR?
Aside from the obvious aspect of identifying any active infestation and determining the damage, getting a professional termite certification can also:
* Help you avoid costly repairs down the road—By catching termite damage early, you
can prevent further damage to your home and save money on repairs.
* Allow you to negotiate a better purchase price—If the report reveals termite damage,
you can use this information to negotiate a lower purchase price for the home.
* Help you get a termite warranty—Many companies offer warranties on homes that
have been inspected and certified termite-free. This can give you valuable protection
against future damage.
* Can give you peace of mind—Knowing that your home is free of termites can help you
sleep better at night.
Common Questions About Termite Inspection
Here are some common questions that prospective homebuyers may ask themselves when it comes to inspecting a home for insect damage.
What Does Termite Damage Look Like?
Common signs of termite damage include:
* Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
* Mazes or galleries in wood
* Piles of wood dust or dirt around the wood
* Holes in wood
* Discolored or warped wood
* Swarmers (winged termites) inside your home
* Discarded wings along the floor and window sill
* Peeling paint or wallpaper
* Cracks in walls or ceilings
If you notice any of these signs, the home you are viewing most likely hosted a termite colony.
Should You Buy a House with Termite Damage?
You should not buy a home if there is an active and unresolved termite infestation or if there is extensive structural damage to the home, as this will only lead to costly repairs. But
if the damages are minor and the infestation is eliminated, the house may still be a viable option, especially as this may allow you to negotiate the price.
Do You Need Termite Prevention When Buying a House?
If your lender requires a WDIR, then they will likely also require you to have some form of termite prevention in place. This is to protect their investment in the property and to ensure
that the home is not at risk of infestation or damage.
How Do I Get A WDIR?
A Wood-Destroying Insect Report can be issued by any pest control company that is licensed by the Structural Pest Control Division. To schedule an inspection, call the company, ensure that
they are licensed, and find a time that works for you and the inspector. If you are looking for a local pest control company in Wilmington or the surrounding area that
offers WDIR, as well as ongoing termite protection, contact Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators. With mover 25 years of experience and same-day service options, they can help to protect your future