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Campus News - June 30, 2001 |
Buyers beware of termites
By Richard “Bugman” Fagerlund, Physical Plant Department
Termites can be a problem in New Mexico and they occasionally turn up on campus
and have to be treated. With that in mind, the information below will help staff
and faculty who are buying a home in New Mexico.
Wood Destroying Insect Reports arent mandatory in New Mexico as they
are in most states, so when you buy a home it will not automatically be inspected
for termites unless it is a VA or FHA sale. You will have to ask your realtor
to arrange for a termite inspection. Normally the seller will pick the company
to do the inspection since they are liable for any findings. This may not be
in your best interest as a buyer. The seller will often pick a company who will
do a cursory inspection or who, if they find something, will do an incomplete
or spot treatment. You should have your realtor arrange for another
inspection by a company of your choice to confirm the findings of the sellers
inspection company.
You will also want to make sure the inspecting company is qualified to inspect
for other wood destroying insects such as false powder post beetles, anobiid
beetles and black-horned pine borers, all of which occasionally damage homes
in our area. Dont hesitate to ask questions of anyone doing an inspection
on your new home.
If termites are found it is up to the seller to get the home treated.
If you are buying or selling a home, or if you are concerned with termites in your present home and have questions, please contact me at fagerlun@unm.edu or 277-9904, or check out www.askthebugman.com
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University of New Mexico Albuquerque, New Mexico USA Copyright ©1998 The University of New Mexico. Comments to: paaffair@unm.edu |
Campus News Public Affairs Department Hodgin Hall, 2nd floor Albuquerque, NM 87131-0011 Telephone: (505) 277-5813, Fax: (505) 277-1981 |