We conclude our four-part series on termites answering your questions about wood infestation reports, disclosure, and buying a home in Arizona. Thanks to Dr. Robert Smith, Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, for this valuable information.

Question: How do I find out about the termite infestation/ treatment history of a house I am interested in purchasing?

Answer: Ask the seller and the real estate agent about the termite history of the house. The seller/agent is required by law to make full disclosure of the termite history to the prospective buyer. Carefully read the wood infestation report and call the inspector with any questions you have. If the structure has been treated by or is under contract to a pest control company, ask the company if they will allow you to see their records. If the seller/agent does not make a full disclosure prior to the sale, you have legal recourse. If you ask specific questions about the termite history of the house in the presence of witnesses, your position is greatly strengthened should problems later arise.

Question: What is a Wood Infestation Report (WIR)?

Answer: A WIR is a form that is filled out by a pest control company inspector after inspecting the structure for termite and fungus damage. Evidence of an active or past infestation by termites, evidence of past treatment for an infestation, and conditions conducive to infestation by wood destroying organisms would be reported.

Question: What are "conditions conducive?" Answer: Conditions conducive are features of the structure or grounds that facilitate and encourage infestation of the structure. These include wood-to soil contact, excessive moisture, wood scraps etc.

Question: Is the WIR a guarantee about the termite history of the structure?

Answer: No! The inspector who fills out a WIR is not required to move heavy objects to inspect behind them. He is only required to report what is observable to the trained eye or damage the can be detected by lightly tapping on wooden parts of the structure.

Question: Can a seller/agent deceive an inspector who has been hired to do a WIR?

Answer: Unfortunately yes, and it happens frequently. The owner/seller will remove all visible evidence of an infestation and do superficial cosmetic repairs with wood putty and paint just before the inspector makes his visit to examine the structure. The inspector sees no evidence of the past or current infestation and has nothing to include on the WIR. Buyer beware!!!!

Question: Should I decline to purchase a house with a history of termite infestation?

Answer: Not necessarily. There are many factors to consider when confronted with this situation. For example: How extensive is the infestation/damage? How old is the house? Can you get a substantial discount from the seller because of past termite damage or an active infestation? Is the house made of frame stucco or of masonry construction? How much will it cost to keep the house under contract to a pest control company for regular inspection/ treatment?

Question: What can I do to investigate the quality of the pretreatment on a new home I am considering for purchase?

Answer: Find out what company did the pretreatment and ask them questions about what they did, what chemicals they used and what concentrations of A.I. and at what rates did they apply the termiticide.