Tennessee's warm, humid climate is ideal for termites. Find out whether there's evidence of activity, past damage or conditions that invite them before you buy.
Wood-destroying organisms (WDOs) include subterranean termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles and wood-decay fungi. Subterranean termites are especially common across Middle Tennessee, and they can damage framing for years before anyone notices.
A termite and WDO inspection from Home Inspections by SP&D focuses on visible evidence of wood-destroying insects — mud tubes, damaged wood, frass and exit holes — along with conditions that attract them, such as wood-to-soil contact, moisture problems and stored wood against the house.
If your lender or loan program requires an official wood-destroying insect report, Tennessee generally requires it to be issued by a licensed pest control company. Ask your lender early, and Mark can help you coordinate.
Mark inspects accessible areas for these warning signs.
Pencil-width tunnels termites build along foundations and piers.
Hollowed, blistered or soft wood in framing, sills and trim.
Droppings, sawdust-like debris and small exit holes.
Moisture, wood-to-soil contact and debris that attract pests.
Termite damage isn't always visible from inside the living space. Activity often starts in crawl spaces, sill plates and areas behind siding where few homeowners ever look.
Finding evidence before closing gives you the chance to request treatment, repairs or a credit — and to have a structural concern evaluated if damage is significant.
Even when no activity is found, correcting conducive conditions like poor drainage or wood in contact with soil helps reduce the risk of future infestations.
Mark evaluates readily accessible areas, including:
Official wood-destroying insect reports required by lenders in Tennessee generally must come from a licensed pest control company. Mark's inspection documents what he observes for your own decision-making, and he can help you coordinate an official report if your loan requires one.
No inspector can see inside finished walls. Mark inspects readily accessible areas for visible evidence. Thermal imaging and moisture readings can provide additional clues.
A licensed pest control company can confirm activity and recommend treatment. If wood damage is significant, a contractor or engineer may need to evaluate the structure.
Yes. Termites can attack homes of any age, and pre-construction treatments don't last forever.
A focused look for wood-destroying insects.
Call 561-301-7571 and ask about your lender's requirements, too.
Mark checks the exterior, crawl space, framing and wood near grade.
Any signs of insects, damage or conducive conditions are photographed.
Mark explains when to call a licensed pest control company or contractor.
Wood-Destroying Insect Inspections • TN License #1374 • InterNACHI Certified • Serving Middle Tennessee