CategoriesTermites

Handling Termites

Termite: What Does Termite Inspection Entail

A termite inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of a home for evidence of wood-destroying insects. The inspector will visually inspect the entire interior of a home (including accessing and entering any sub-space such as basements and crawlspaces) and exterior of the property. After the inspection has been performed, the findings are reported on a special wood destroying insect form separate from the home inspection report.

How long does an inspection take?
The average termite inspection takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes for a thorough inspection, depending on the size and conditions (e.g. clutter; storage of personal items, etc.) of the home and property.

Can termites live in colder climates?
Yes, termites have been found throughout the United States, even in Alaska! Cold weather does not kill them, it only slows them down or causes them to go into a hibernation state.

Why inspect the attic if termites stay close to the ground?
The termite inspection is actually an inspection for wood-destroying insects. The inspector is also looking for other types of wood-destroying insects, such as ants and carpenter bees.

CategoriesRadon

What is Radon

Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It comes from the natural breakdown of uraniumin soil,rock, and gets into water and the air you breathe. Radon typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon can also enter your home through well water. Your home can trap radon inside. Any home can have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements. In fact, you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure at home. That is where you spend most of your time.

State officials want residents to test their homes for an undetectable radioactive gas that could cause cancer. The New Jersey Department of Health said one in six New Jersey homes has elevated levels of radon, according to a press release. Radon occurs naturally and has no color, odor or taste, and moves into soil and home foundations. The gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer and causes an estimated 566 deaths in New Jersey each year.