During the inspection, several issues were identified—many of which are quite common for homes in this region. Catching these early is critical for protecting the property and preventing costly repairs down the road. Here’s a breakdown of what we found:

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are a major concern for any homeowner. They live underground and can enter the home through cracks in the foundation or plumbing lines. Once inside, they silently feed on wood, weakening the structure over time. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent extensive damage.

Dry Rot Issues

We found dry rot in multiple areas of the home:
-Siding
-Trim
-Belly board (the wood covering the home’s foundation perimeter)

Dry rot occurs when moisture infiltrates the wood, allowing fungus to grow and break down the wood fibers. Over time, this can compromise the integrity of structural components.

Moisture Intrusion Behind Stucco

Cracks in the stucco allowed water to seep behind the exterior walls, contributing to moisture damage and dry rot. Moisture behind stucco can go unnoticed for years and eventually lead to costly repairs if not addressed early.

Vegetation Too Close to the Home

We also noted that plants and trees were growing too close to the house. This can trap moisture against the structure and create easy pathways for pests, including termites, ants, and rodents. Keeping vegetation trimmed at least 12–18 inches away from the structure helps reduce these risks.

Crawlspace Conditions

Inside the crawlspace, we found:

• Cellulose debris (wood scraps that can attract termites)

• Moisture issues

• Active plumbing leaks under the bathrooms

Moisture in the crawlspace can lead to fungus, mold growth, and wood rot. A vapor barrier is recommended to control humidity levels and prevent long-term moisture problems. The active leaks need to be repaired to stop water from continuing to saturate the crawlspace.