5 Questions About Wood Borer Inspections in Port Elizabeth

Whichever brings you to True Clean in Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha, start by telling us what you need checked and whether there is a deadline. These five questions explain the practical steps.

1. What does a wood-borer inspection involve?

We visually inspect accessible timber for signs of wood-borer activity. The inspection is about the timber we can reach and see; it is not a laboratory test of every piece of wood in the property.

Tell us about any areas that concern you and any previous treatment you know about. Show us the affected timber rather than rely only on a description over the phone.

We can then explain what we found and the next steps for that property.

2. Is it only the roof that gets checked?

No. Depending on the property and access, the inspection can include floors, skirtings, stairs, roof timber and timber around outbuildings.

External timber such as fascia boards, barge boards and wooden fences can also need attention. Tell us about sheds, garages and separate structures when arranging the visit.

Concealed or inaccessible timber is a limitation that needs explaining. We would not describe a visual inspection as proof of the condition of wood we could not inspect.

3. What should I prepare before you arrive?

Arrange access. Locked garages, outbuildings or other areas need to be opened for the inspection.

Tell us in advance if someone else holds the keys or if there are restrictions on entering parts of the property. Where access depends on a tenant, seller or agent, make those arrangements before the appointment.

If an area cannot be inspected, we need to discuss what that means for the work and documentation. It is better to establish that before a transfer deadline is close.

4. What happens if you find an infestation?

We explain the finding and discuss the treatment required rather than assume that the visit will end with a clearance certificate.

Where treatment is appropriate, that work needs its own scope and quote. If the job requires fumigation, we refer that part to another company.

An inspection request is not a promise of a clear result. Allow for the possibility that findings may affect the next steps and the timing.

5. Can you issue the certificate in time for my property transfer?

Tell us the deadline when you enquire and provide the requirements you have received from the person handling the transfer.

We can discuss the inspection, access and documentation needed, and what would happen if treatment is required. Do not assume that a certificate can be issued before the property has been inspected.

Confirm the required certificate scope and timing with your conveyancer or the person requesting it. We will explain the terms of the document we can provide. A wood-borer inspection should not be assumed to cover every timber pest or the structural condition of the building.