By: Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
After purchasing our home, we discovered that the inspector had missed a very bad dry rot problem in the eaves. Is the inspection company responsible for this oversight? If so, how can I get them to make the necessary repairs? -- Marvin
Dear Marvin,
When you mention "inspector," it is not clear whether you mean the home inspector or the pest inspector. Home inspectors are not licensed to inspect for wood destroying organisms such as termites or fungus (dry rot), although they will often point out such problem as "moisture damage," or "possible insect damage" when observed. Pest inspectors, on the other hand, are specifically licensed to evaluate and repair this type of infestation and the resultant damage. Pest inspectors must guaranty their work for one year, and they are strictly regulated in most states.
If wood rot in your eaves was not reported by the pest inspection company during your escrow period, you should contact them immediately and ask them to take a look at the problem. Reputable companies will stand behind their work. Those who do not should be reported to the to the appropriate regulatory agencies.
. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted to our "