What might be happening
A surveyor may record old flight holes as evidence of previous wood-boring insect activity. The question is whether the infestation is active and whether the timber is still sound.
Surveyors may flag possible insect damage without having access to determine whether activity is current.
Before agreeing to treatment or extensive replacement, it is reasonable to ask what has actually been found, how far the damage extends and what is allowing it to happen.
What you can look for
Ask which timbers were inspected, whether fresh evidence was observed and whether any structural damage was identified.
You do not need to start taking the building apart yourself. If access is difficult, ask the person inspecting it to explain what needs to be opened up and why. Photographs of hidden defects are useful, especially when you are comparing quotations.
Putting it right
A targeted timber inspection can establish whether monitoring, treatment or repair is appropriate.
Be wary of a quotation that deals only with the damaged wood and says nothing about the water or building defect behind it. Once the cause has been dealt with, the remaining timber can be checked and the necessary repairs planned.
When to call someone in
Avoid paying for whole-house treatment solely because an initial survey mentioned old holes.
A carpenter or joiner may be right for a local timber repair. If the problem involves a leak, you may need a plumber or roofer first. Where supporting timbers have moved, sagged or seriously weakened, get advice from someone qualified to assess the structure.
Questions worth asking
- What evidence supports the diagnosis and proposed treatment?
- Which parts of the work are essential and which are optional?
- Will you put the findings, scope and exclusions in writing?