What We Inspect
November 25, 2015Order Home Inspection
November 30, 2015Termite Inspections in Columbus Ohio
VA Termite Inspections in Columbus, OH
Your Guide to Termite Inspections in Columbus Ohio
Are you in need of a termite inspection in Columbus, Ohio? Schedule an appointment at 1-800-241-1033! We also inspect for other wood-destroying insects.
There are plenty of insects and organisms that love to eat wood and will slowly destroy your residential or commercial building.
From termites and fungi to carpenter bees and powderpost beetles, Mother Nature has created plenty of creatures who dine on your prized possession. If you suspect that termites or other wood-destroying insects are attacking your property, don’t hesitate to schedule a termite inspection. Call Home & Commercial Inspections LLC immediately so you can prevent further damage and take the necessary steps to eradicate pests and repair your building. Don’t let pests eat away at your investment. Reclaim your property with our affordable termite inspection solutions. Serving Columbus and Central Ohio.
Termite Inspection: What to Expect
Detecting signs of insect damage requires the trained eye of a professional termite inspector. Our experienced termite inspectors know just what to look for and where to look when conducting your termite inspection in Columbus, Ohio. They will thoroughly examine all potentially affected areas and provide you with an Ohio Department of Agricultural Report (Form NPMA-33) that outlines where they detected problems, along with recommendations for the best course of action.
The Professional Termite Inspection Difference
In Columbus, Ohio, termite inspectors are required to be licensed, which means they have met state standards and completed the necessary training. Make sure you hire a professional to avoid unnecessary costs, reduce damage, and get the termite inspection done right the first time.
At Home & Commercial Inspections LLC, we have a team of licensed and experienced termite inspectors who are committed to providing excellent customer service. We know that the process of identifying and eliminating insects from your property can feel overwhelming. This is why our inspectors treat you just like they would their own family and strive to make every termite inspection feel more manageable. They are here to answer your questions walk you through every step of the termite inspection process in your Columbus, OH, residential or commercial property.
What Does a Termite Inspector Look For?
Here are some common signs of termite infestations that inspectors are trained to look for:
1. Piles of wings around window sills and doorways. During the termite’s reproductive period of their life cycle, they use their wings to travel and find mates. Once fertilization occurs, they shed their wings, which can accumulate in areas where they have formed a nest. If you or an inspector locates wings, the actual termites are bound to be close by. Our termite inspections will determine this.
2. Mud tubes along foundations and other access points. Termites are problem-solvers. If they run into a material, such as concrete, which they can’t eat through and prevents them from getting to a food source, they will simply build a bridge. Mud tubes are essentially termite highways that keep them protected and allow them to reach the wood in your building. The tubes are made from soil, wood, and other organic material, usually a brown color, which we will find during the termite inspection.
3. Mud in joints and cracks. A warm and humid environment is ideal for termites. They hate a cold draft, so they will actually use mud to fill in cracks and holes along construction joints to create a more comfortable environment. Inspectors will look for signs of mud accumulation in certain areas to see if termites have set up shop.
4. Presence of termites in other wood objects in your yard. If an inspector finds termites in outdoor fencing, landscape mulch, firewood, and dead trees located on your property, there is a good chance that termites have also made their way into the building.
5. Weak wood and dry rot. Unfortunately, termite damage can be hard to detect just by taking a look at a structure’s surface. Termites eat the inside of the wood, making it difficult to see pathways. A professional can tap pieces of wood and listen for a low or flat sound that indicates hollow wood. A well-trained ear can detect damaged wood during a termite inspection.
Previous Extermination Treatments
Even if your Central Ohio property has already been treated for termites and other insects, you may be due for another inspection and round of treatment. The weather conditions where you live, the density of any previous infestation, and the expertise of your last exterminator can all affect how long your treatment lasts. Your best bet is to schedule a yearly appointment with Home & Commercial Inspections LLC. Regularly inspecting your property and checking for signs of termite damage is by far the best tool for protecting your residential or commercial investment. Schedule a regular and routine termite inspection with us today!
☏ Call Us to Schedule a Residential or Commercial Inspection
Or Dial 1-800-241-0133 and ask to schedule a termite inspection in Columbus, Ohio, for your residential dwelling or commercial building!
Wood destroying termites like this, can be discovered during a termite inspection in Columbus Ohio
Damage caused to wood is commonly found during a termite inspection in Columbus Ohio
An example of termites shedding their wings found during a termite inspection in Columbus Ohio
VA Loans and Wood-Destroying Insect Inspections
Veterans will need to complete a termite inspection on their potential property before securing their loan if the building is located in a zone with a “very heavy” to “moderate” probability of infestation. This is a requirement in 30 states, including Ohio. However, the VA may provide assistance to those living in low-probability areas who still want the assurance of a termite inspection. Veterans looking to take advantage of the great rates and 100% financing available with VA loans will need to complete a termite inspection on their potential property before securing their loan. Depending on the amount of damage that is found, the seller may be responsible for addressing any and all issues.
Who Orders and Pays for the VA Termite Inspection?
The buyer is responsible for ordering the termite inspection, but the seller is required to order and pay for the pest inspection under the terms of a VA loan. There are only nine states where the VA allows buyers to pay for the inspection. Buyers may find that the seller and their real estate agent raise a little fuss about the cost, but VA is clear about this requirement, which is meant to protect veterans and ensure that they purchase a safe and sanitary residential or commercial building.
What Zone Am I In?
In general, the northern-most states have the lowest probability of termite infestation. The further south you travel, the better conditions become for termites. Ohio is located in the “moderate to heavy” probability zone, which means veterans will be required to have their potential property inspected before securing a VA loan. It also means that other property owners across the area should invest in regular wood-destroying insect and termite inspections.
Columbus, Ohio, falls within the “moderate to heavy” probability zone. To schedule your termite inspection in Columbus, Ohio, or Central Ohio, call us at 1-800-241-0133!
Common Wood Destroying Insects
Subterranean Termites
Termites are perhaps the most well-known wood-eating pests. They thrive on damp wood and form colonies that burrow tunnels and damage buildings, furniture, and trees. More often than not, property owners will notice piles of wings or tunnels being burrowed before they ever see the actual white bodies of the termites. Home & Commercial Inspections LLC can help you keep your peace of mind with a termite inspection in Columbus, Ohio.
Termite Quick Facts
- Over $4 billion in damages to homes and businesses each year
- Drawn to moist wood
- Can be hard to detect
- Often spotted in crawl spaces and around structural beams
- Create hollow wood
- Termite tunnels are made with soil, saliva, and feces
- Wood damage can take years to surface
Carpenter Ants
Like all ant species, carpenter ants are hard workers, which means they can cause a lot of trouble in very little time. They have a habit of chewing wood, both with and across the grain, to form interesting patterns. As they bore through wood, they carry the shavings outside the nest. Because they work in large colonies, you may actually be able to hear them at work, biting away at your building with their strong jaws. If you schedule a termite inspection in Columbus, OH, then we will also look for signs of carpenter ants.
Carpenter Bees
These large bees love to eat a variety of woods but are especially partial to any surfaces that are already weathered. Signs of carpenter bees include an entrance hole and the appearance of sawdust, a result of their boring. They tend to prefer structural pieces of wood and avoid surfaces that have been painted or sealed. Over time, carpenter bees can form tunnels that reach 10 feet long and cause extensive damage. If you schedule a termite inspection in Columbus, OH, then we will also look for signs of carpenter bees.
Powderpost Beetles
As with termites, property owners are much more likely to spot damage than actually see powderpost beetles in action. These beetles chew circular holes that can be clearly seen. Depending on the exact type of beetle, the size of holes can range from .09 to 0.28 inches. The powderpost beetle gets its name from the fact it can turn hardwoods into powder, which is exactly why you will want to call a professional if you suspect an infestation. If you schedule a termite inspection in Columbus, OH, then we will also look for signs of powderpost beetles.
Wood-Destroying Fungi
Both white rot and brown rot, which is often referred to as “dry rot,” can compromise the integrity of wood. Typically, wood that has been damaged by fungi will feel much lighter than normal and may even be sprouting mushrooms and brackens. Brown rot causes wood to take on a brown color and crumble simply by being touched. White rot is just as destructive but causes a bleached appearance and makes the wood feel spongy. If you schedule a termite inspection in Columbus, Ohio, then we will also look for signs of wood-destroying fungi.
What Happens if There is an Infestation?
Once you have had your home or commercial building inspected by a professional, and you have received a detailed WDI report, the first priority will be to eliminate the insects. The type of treatment will vary depending on the insect. You may be suffering the effects of both fungi and insects, which can require a more comprehensive approach. The inspector will thoroughly assess the damage and make recommendations for repairs. The cost of repairs can vary widely, depending on the amount of damage and where is it located, which makes it even more important to work with a trusted professional.
Who Pays for Treatment If a House Is Infested?
In the case of a VA loan, the seller is required to pay for treatment and any necessary repairs. However, this is not the case with standard loans. While most states require a termite inspection to secure a loan, the actual treatment costs are open for negotiation. As a buyer, it makes sense that the seller would cover the cost; buyers are by no means required to pay for treatment. The inspection is merely meant to uncover any problems, but you will have to negotiate exactly who pays for what, and this may require you and your real estate agent to make changes to the original contract.
Termite Inspections throughout Columbus OH and Central Ohio
If you are in need of a termite inspection in Columbus Ohio, then contact us and schedule an appointment now. We inspect for all wood destroying insects.
"*" indicates required fields
Give us a call for top quality Termite Inspection in your Columbus Ohio or Central OH area! 1 (800) 241-0133!
Termite Inspections Primary Service Areas
Get a Quote for Termite Inspections
"*" indicates required fields
What People Are Saying About Our Termite Inspections
Submit your review | |
Very polite, professional and thorough! Very knowledgeable and didn't make me feel like any question was too much or too dumb. I would recommend to anyone looking for an inspection for any reason! Greg was my inspector and he did an amazing job and if I ever need this done again, definitely would ask for him!
James was extremely personable, knowledgeable, and very detailed oriented. He took the extra time needed to explain all of the issues to ensure I was aware of exactly what was occurring with my home. He identified several issues and actually saved us from a future leak in our brand new roof!! I would recommend Home & Commercial Inspections 100%.
Greg did a wonderful job on our home inspection! His inspection was very thorough and detailed. Additionally, he went above and beyond to ensure that we were knowledgeable as first-time home buyers on important aspects of home maintenance. We received our inspection report same day helping us to make a timely decision. He was friendly, personable, and extremely knowledgeable. From the booking to the services rendered, I would strongly recommend this company.
Tony did a great job on the inspection for my new condo purchase. His attention to detail was terrific and he took time to explain items to me in detail, including maintenance issues to be aware of in the future. He answered all of my questions and took time to listen to my concerns. Booking the appointment online was a breeze and the report was very thorough and included clear pictures. I would highly recommend them to anyone, especially those new to homeownership.
Tony was wonderful! Extremely thorough in checking out our future condo. Including suggestions of things we can do to secure safety. Our realtor forgot/didn’t add radon test which we specifically asked for and HC Inspections made sure to revisit prior to our deadline to set up the radon test & get the results to us. Much appreciated!!!
First time home buyer! We had Matt Brown and he was very professional and kind. He took time to answer all of my questions and explain the reasoning for things. Since he knew it was my first time buying a house, he went out of his way to explain the inspection process, break down the severity of issues we uncovered and provided helpful suggestions on how to go about fixing the issues. Would highly recommend Matt and Home & Commercial Inspections LLC!
Very easy process to schedule, and our inspector Greg was amazing. He was able to answer all of our questions and took the time to explain what he was looking for. Overall this was an amazing experience and we would use this service again. the scheduling process was fast, and the inspection was thorough, and the detailed notes after helped make sure nothing was missed.
Greg was meticulous in his work and made sure to explain issues as we went along. He also provided tips for maintaining our appliances as we are first time homebuyers. He went above and beyond to ensure we knew what we were getting into in our purchase!
We were so impressed with James from our previous home inspection a few years ago that we requested him again for our new home. He was great back then and still is now. He’s very thorough and informative and has gone out of his way to our answer questions and provide us additional information. He’s very professional and has a great friendly personality. If we ever need another inspection we’d definitely be calling him again.
We requested to work with Greg based on the reviews that we saw and were so glad that we did! He was very responsive via text/phone - on our scheduled day, he showed up early and began inspection right away. His inspection was very thorough and professional. As we walked through the house, he also gave us (as first-time home owners) lots of valuable home maintenance tips. We are recommending Greg and the company to our neighbors and friends, and we will also work with him again for our 11-month warranty inspection!
Positive: Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value
I really like he took his time and answer any questions that I had and made sure that I understood everything that was going on.
