National Home Inspector Practice Exam

What inspection finding suggests the need for pest control services?

1. Observance of only cosmetic damage

2. Detection of insect presence without visible damage

3. Finding evidence of infested wood

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Finding evidence of infested wood

Finding evidence of infested wood is a strong indicator that pest control services are required. Infestations, especially from wood-destroying insects like termites, carpenter ants, or wood boring beetles, typically manifest through damage to structural elements like beams, joists, and framing. Detecting infested wood means that pests have already established a presence and are actively causing harm, which necessitates immediate intervention to prevent further damage to the property. In contrast, observing only cosmetic damage may not necessarily indicate a pest problem; it could result from environmental factors or wear and tear, which may not require pest control services. Detection of insect presence without visible damage might suggest a potential issue but falls short of demonstrating that pests are actively causing harm; this scenario might require monitoring rather than immediate pest control action. Understanding these nuances is essential for home inspectors to determine when to recommend pest control services effectively.