Is this termite damage?

I'm currently looking at a duplex to purchase. It has hardwood floors (older) throughout the house and does have a basement (if that matters). Here is a picture of a place in the living room floor. It was only one of two places that looked like this. The other being a 2x6 in the basement near a window frame. In your opinon, what is the cause? I am still going to make any offer contingent on home inspection and termite inspection results.

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Yes-subterranean termite damage. What state are you in? That is always helpful to know when dealing with insect issues.

Urge the sellers to show any and all paperwork relating to pest control/termite issues. Date of termite treatment if any, re-treatment if required, etc.

When we treat for subterranean termites we perform the standard liquid soil treatment. Look on cement porches, sidewalks, patios, for masonry drill marks that will be about 4-8” from the foundation wall and spaced about 12-18” apart. The drill holes will be patched, but it never blends in perfectly.

Make sure the floor joists, sills, headers, band boards are probed with long screwdriver type tool to check for extent and nature of damage. If the ceilings/walls are covered with drywall, paneling, etc. that would be a hindrance to further inspection. Keep us posted with what you learn.

 

The home is located in Indianapolis, IN. Can't really ask the seller as the home was foreclosed by Fannie Mae. Will look for those indicators you mentioned though.