I had an inspection today that the client did not want a termite inspection. But while I was there I observed obvious Termite damage. I’m just curious what others would do in this situation. I’m thinking the best thing to do would be to say I saw “possible insect damage” and recommend they get a full inspection? I am licensed to do WDO inspections but since they have refused that portion of the inspection I’m at a loss. Thanks!
Write what you say: “evidence of subterranean termites was seen in several places, per client instruction no additional inspection was done”.
(or based on comments below)
“evidence consistent with damage by termites was seen in several places, per client instruction no additional inspection was done”.
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the above is bad advice imo
do not identify species
“possible insect damage observed consult a competent pest control specialist”
there’s always more that wasn’t presented by the op
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I thought the same in regards to identifying anything specific. Just trying to find the sweet spot between CYA and “you didn’t pay for a termite inspection.” Thanks!
why go there?
if anything remind them you are wdi cert, if factual, & would like their continued biz based on their reassurance of other deficiencies identified in your report
i don’t sell inspections or reports
i sell myself & my abilities 1st & foremost
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Since termite damage can be considered structural they should be advised to have the areas further evaluated. If not by you, then someone else. Either way, you should be covered. In Jersey, you won’t get a mortgage without a clear termite certificate.
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I had a WDO Connecticut S license to do inspections, but would never take on the liability when agents readily recommend getting a separate report. But, if you’re going to correctly recommend a full termite inspection and you obviously have the training to identify termite damage, why wouldn’t you identify the damage and other signs as “termite damage requiring further inspection by a licensed termite company,” especially when language like “possible” could be misconstrued against you as “yes, possible, but not really likely.”
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I’m licensed to do WDI inspections in Ohio. Here we have to use the npma-33 form. I always offer and recommend a termite inspection but in this case the client turned it down. So, when I’m doing the inspection and find termite damage I wasn’t sure how to proceed. I figured I couldn’t be the only person this has happened to. I ended up stating that I observed insect damage in this area and recommended a pest control company further evaluate.
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I had a similar situation happen this week. Buyer was adamant to turn down wdo inspection, yet I found termite in the 80+ yr old house (big surprise!).
I informed them I saw what looked to be termite damage and recommended a full WDO. However I did not go as in depth and prod as per a usual wdo.
Also if they don’t pay for it they do not receive an NPMA-33.