Hi Dono,
I have seen many pest and building reports. The inspectors themselves do need to cover their backsides so the reports always seem worse than the problem really is. As a general guide line, every fault they find, they will presume the worst and predict the worst if it is not fixed then quote massively over what the fault will cost to repair. I see this all the time!
I have been told by some inspectors that the insurance premiums are up to $30,000. I have been told by others that they have to get insurance from New Zealand as other insurers won’t touch them. I’m not sure if this is true, it’s just what I have been told.
So, with this in light, it is understandable why inspectors are “over the top” in their reports. Just remember that it is a default report they provide, it’s not a report to say how good the home is, it’s a report to say how bad the home is.
I have seen homes which are riddled with termites (sometimes even live). I have had others where there is only minor damage under the home or to the fence. Sometimes they have a little nibble and go away. Other times they may go right through a home, leave mud-tracking everywhere but not eat anything.
I would advise you speak to the actual inspector. You paid him so I’m sure he would be happy to have a chat. I think you will get a clearer picture by speaking to him rather than reading what is basically, a “cover my backside” report.
Also keep in mind the re-sale issue. Once you have termite damage it is very hard to hide. Even if you replace all the damaged beams, you will probably end up with drill marks in the concrete slab + various stickers in your meter box. So next time you sell, the buyers pest inspector will probably realise there has been previous termite issues. Otherwise the builder inspector will notice newer beams compared to older ones- and their not stupid, they know what’s going on.
Honestly, when you mention the word “termite”, many buyers run or believe they can purchase the property for land value. It can be very difficult issue to deal with.
If you do end up buying the property, be sure to keep all documentation and photos of all work and treatment. This is usually the saving grace for many vendors when they re-sell the property. If you can give the next buyer piece of mind that there have been regular pest inspections/treatments and the original problem was fixed, you won’t have any issues.