Parklands grew fast from bare dune land into rows of townhouse complexes and family homes, so many pest issues here come from the sand and open veld that still surround parts of it.
Parklands: what drives timber pests here
Newer homes have little old timber, but roof trusses and wooden decks can still be inspected for borer. Beetle certificates are still required on sale.
Most homes are newer brick houses and townhouses in complexes with shared walls and gardens. Some estates have ponds and open spaces with water features.
Parklands is built on sandy, windy coastal ground near Big Bay and Table View, with open dune and veld land still at the edges. The South-Easter blows hard in summer, and winter brings cold fronts and rain. Ponds and wetlands in estates and parks hold water year-round.
Signs to look for
Tick every sign you have noticed. It takes ten seconds.
From the technician
Agents tend to ask for the certificate, but buyers benefit most from understanding it. It covers accessible timber at the time of the inspection, not every hidden beam in the house.
What happens when we come out
Our inspector checks all accessible timbers in the roof void, along with exposed woodwork such as floors, skirtings, door frames and built-in cupboards. We look for exit holes, frass, larval galleries and the condition of the timber, and we note any areas that could not be accessed. If the accessible timber is clear, we issue the Certificate of Compliance. If beetle activity is found, we recommend treatment, usually borer injection or spray on the affected timber, or replacement where the wood is too damaged, and re-inspect afterwards before certifying. We will always tell you plainly if something is a cosmetic old hole and if something is active.
- Book early in the sale
Contact us as soon as the offer is accepted so there is time for any treatment before transfer.
- Access arranged
We confirm access to the roof void and other timber areas, and note any parts that are sealed off.
- Inspection
Accessible timbers are checked for exit holes, frass and active borer damage.
- Findings explained
You get a clear answer on whether the timber is clear or what needs treating or replacing.
- Treatment if needed
Affected timber is treated or replaced, then re-inspected.
- Certificate issued
Once the timbers are clear, the Certificate of Compliance is issued for the transfer.
Stopping a repeat visit
- Keep records of any timber treatment or roof repairs done on the property, as they help explain what the inspector sees.
- If you are renovating, use treated timber for any new roof work.
- Have an older home's roof checked every few years, not only when you sell.
- Keep roof voids dry and well ventilated, since damp timber is more attractive to some borers.
- Order the beetle inspection as soon as a sale is agreed rather than leaving it to the week before transfer.
How much will it cost?
The cost of a beetle inspection depends on the size of the property and how easy it is to access the roof void and timbers. Sectional title units, freestanding homes and larger properties with multiple roof spaces take different amounts of time. If beetle activity is found, treatment or timber replacement is quoted separately based on how much timber is affected.
There is no DIY route for a Certificate of Compliance, since the transfer needs an independent inspection. What you can do is look in the roof yourself before listing, so a surprise does not derail the sale. If you see fresh powder or new holes, it is much better to know early.
Questions we get asked in Parklands
Do you come out to Parklands for beetle certificate inspection?
Yes. Parklands is part of our regular Blaauwberg & West Coast route, along with Table View, Bloubergstrand, Melkbosstrand, Milnerton. Most bookings are done within about 48 hours, and after-hours visits can be arranged.
Is a beetle certificate required to sell a house in the Western Cape?
In most Western Cape sales, the sale agreement or the buyer's bank requires a beetle Certificate of Compliance before transfer. Your conveyancer will confirm what your agreement requires.
What happens if beetles are found?
We explain where the activity is and recommend treatment or replacement of the affected timber. Once that is done and re-inspected, the certificate can be issued.
How long does the inspection take?
Most homes are inspected in a single visit. Our average turnaround for bookings is about 48 hours, which helps when a transfer deadline is close.
What is the European house borer?
It is a wood-boring beetle that attacks softwood roof timbers, and it is a notifiable pest in the Western Cape. Finding it means the infested timber must be properly dealt with.
Who pays for the beetle inspection?
That depends on the terms of the sale agreement, but it is usually the seller. Check with your estate agent or conveyancer.
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