Termite & Pest Inspection in Rochester, MN
Home Inspectors Rochester MN | Termite Inspection (507) 721-0922
A certified termite inspector will review all accessible locations for signs of termite infestation and damage – both past and present. In addition to identifying activity, your inspector also should indicate areas in or around the home that can be conducive to termite activity.
Structural and moisture issues can include standing water on the roof, pooling water around the foundation, wood mulch close to the foundation, and wooden deck supports that touch the soil.
What Does a Termite Inspector Check?
A termite inspector looks for visible signs of termite infestation, including:
- wood damage
- mud tubes
- discarded wings
- termite exit holes
- termite droppings
Your inspector also will look for moisture issues and wood-to-ground contact that can be conducive to termite activity.
Home Inspectors Rochester MN | Home Inspection 507-721-0922
Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Reports in Rochester
A termite inspection is formally known as a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection and covers more than just termites. In Rochester, MN, the most common wood-destroying insects our home inspector encounters are carpenter ants, which are far more prevalent in Minnesota than subterranean termites. Carpenter ants hollow out wood to create nesting galleries, and they are particularly active in homes with moisture issues, since they prefer damp or decaying wood. We also inspect for powder post beetles, which leave small round exit holes in hardwoods and can cause significant structural damage over time if left untreated. Our WDI report documents any evidence of current infestation, past damage, and conditions conducive to wood-destroying insect activity.
When Lenders Require a WDI Inspection
If you are purchasing a home in Rochester with a VA loan, FHA loan, or USDA Rural Development loan, your lender will likely require a Wood-Destroying Insect inspection before closing. Even for conventional loans where it is not required, we strongly recommend a termite inspection for any Rochester home, particularly properties with wood-to-soil contact, crawl spaces, older construction, or evidence of past moisture problems. The cost of a WDI inspection is minimal compared to the thousands of dollars that untreated carpenter ant or termite damage can cost in structural repairs.
Protecting Your Rochester Home from Wood-Destroying Insects
Prevention is the best strategy for protecting your home from wood-destroying insects. During our termite inspection, we identify conditions that attract these pests, such as wood mulch piled against the foundation, tree branches in contact with the structure, improper grading that directs moisture toward the home, and firewood stored against exterior walls. We provide specific recommendations to reduce your risk. For a complete evaluation of your home's condition, combine your WDI inspection with our full home inspection service. Call (507) 721-0922 to schedule your termite inspection in Rochester, MN.