Pest Control Operators and Reports

What should real estate consumers reasonably expect of North Carolina Pest Control Operators when they complete the standard "Wood-Destroying Insect Information Report"? This was the subject of a recent memorandum from the Structural Pest Control Division of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture which has been excerpted below:

1. Must make a careful visual examination of all accessible areas of a building find attempt (by "sounding" accessible structural members) to determine the presence of any damage by wood-destroying insects.
2. Must report any wood-destroying insect damage, any evidence of recent activity, and any "conditions conducive to subterranean termites" (e.g., insufficient ventilation, cellulose debris under structure, etc.).
3. May submit a bid to treat the structure and stop any such activity, but may not be qualified to make damage repairs or determine whether repairs have been made.

1. Is used to report infestations of and damage by various wood-destroying insects (not just termites).
2. Is not a "clearance letter" or a warranty as to the absence of wood-destroying insects; but rather is a report of the apparent absence of such insects at the time of inspection.
3. Is the only form which may be used to report infestation of buildings and structures for sale.
4. May be issued only by licensed pest control operators.

In short, according to the Structural Pest Control Division, "The most important thing to remember is that the report must be, as required by law, a true indication of the presence or absence of wood" destroying insects and their related damage."

For further information, contact the N.C. Department of Agriculture, Structural Pest Control Division, PO. Box 27647, Raleigh, N.C. 27611, Phone (919)733-6100.