If you are in the market for a new home, you'll want to line up a reputable pest control company to perform a CL-100 Wood Infestation Report when you find the home you would like to buy. Required for most real estate transactions, this inspection and report should be performed within 30 days of closing on a home. While paying for a Wood Infestation Report may sound like a hassle or an annoying extra expense, it is actually for your protection. And because the buyer is the one paying for the report, it ensures that the company you hire to perform this vital service is totally invested in looking out for your best interests.

WHAT IS A CL-100 WOOD INFESTATION REPORT?

A CL-100 Wood Infestation Report is a detailed report of a thorough visual inspection for signs of infestation of wood-destroying insects such as termites and beetles (and potentially certain species of bees). The report also includes inspection for signs of decay in accessible areas of the home, particularly decay fungi in lower levels of the home below the main floor. Pest Inspectors who perform CL-100 Wood Infestation Reports are required by law to document any potential signs of damage caused by a wood-destroying organism (which includes both the insects and the fungi). If the inspector finds a potential infestation, it may not necessarily be a deal breaker. In South Carolina, with our warm and humid climate, most homes in the area that are 10 years old or olderhave at least a minor amount of damage from wood-destroying insects or fungi.

HOW DOES A CL-100 WOOD INFESTATION REPORT PROTECT BUYERS?

A "clear" report does NOT guarantee there is no damage to wooden parts of the home or building, it is a thorough visual inspection for signs of an infestation. There may be damage that is not visible, however, it gives the buyer vital information about the structural soundness of the home they would like to buy. Minor damage from a previous infestation that was properly treated and remedied and poses no risk to the stability of the structure of the home should not impact a sale. However, if a current potential infestation is found, the buyer should have a building inspector/contractor assess the extent of the damage and the cost to treat and fix the damage. This information protects the buyer from unknowingly purchasing a home that comes with a hefty repair bill after closing to deal with infestation and damage.

Because Pest Inspectors are required by law to report potential infestations, those reports create a kind of tracking record as well. All of this adds up to providing the buyer with the most accurate information possible to help them avoid purchasing a home that not only may have a hefty repair bill but also could be structurally compromised and dangerous!