Hi

A question for a builder/chippy.

There is a house for sale which I know has some old termite damage in the kitchen window frame and toilet door frame - got the basic details from a P&B company who previously did an inspection on the house for a previous buyer...... I got lucky that I got that much out of them.

Agent has asked for my unconditional offer by tomorrow, owner want to sell. I was going to pass it up but thought if I get it cheap enough I'll take a punt on extent of damage. I live interstate so can't have another look first, only had a quick glance originally and not being aware of termite issue then.

By frame I suspect the inspector means jamb/architrave around the aluminium window, and door jamb/achitrave as studs would not be visible. House is BV on slab on ground, built 1993. Logan area, Brisbane.

Damage is described as extensive, but I assume this is in their eyes as I can't image the owners allowing it to be eaten away in front of them to the point where it is obvious to those with less than a keen eye.

A few things to consider. Is the frame (jamb/artitrave) that has been eaten likely to be soft pine (painted), and the achilles heel of the house as I assume house frame would be hardwood or TP, or hardier maple which I assume was used up until pine took over. Is there a reasonable chance the house frame may be untouched.

How did the termites get in?? Both areas of damage are in rooms where plumbing exists, so possibly around plumbing access points not cemented in thoroughly and just attracted to a little moisture from leaks in the area. (I am no expert in these areas). There are a lot of shrubs around the house touching the building so this is another consideration for entry, and possibly soil too high against base of the walls. Gate post is another possibility if attached to wall. Otherwise slab cracks???

So what is the likelihood of house frame damage compared to the identified door and window jamb/architrave damage? I assume P&B included a look in the roof space, although I think there is insulation which might inhibit inspection.

Inspection also identified live termite damage in the back fence - which needs replacing. I suspect there are a lot of termites in fences and old remaining stumps of trees/shrubs in the gardens in QLD.

I posted this thread in another category but thought there may be more builders reading this category

Thanks


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