The NPMA-33 form serves as a Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report, a crucial document during the property transfer process. It provides detailed findings from a visual inspection of a property, specifically targeting any evidence of wood-destroying insects, which can significantly impact the property's structural integrity. The form also outlines the inspector's recommendations based on these findings and notes any obstructions or areas that were inaccessible during the inspection. To ensure your property transaction moves smoothly, consider reviewing and filling out the NPMA-33 form by clicking the button below.
In the realm of property transactions, the NPMA-33 form serves as a crucial tool for understanding the potential risks associated with wood-destroying insects. This comprehensive form, developed by the National Pest Management Association, highlights a property’s inspection findings, underlying concerns, and essential recommendations to address these issues. The form begins with general information including the inspection company’s details, date of inspection, and specifics about the inspected property, followed by a detailed inspection findings section that categorizes observations into visible evidence of wood-destroying insects, possible damage caused by them, and any signs of previous treatments. It further provides insights into whether there's a recommendation for treatment based on the findings, outlining the type of treatment suggested if necessary. Additionally, the NPMA-33 form lists areas that were inaccessible during the inspection, potentially hiding future problems, thereby underscoring the report’s limitations. The final section accommodates additional comments and entails signatures from relevant parties, ensuring that both the buyer and seller acknowledge the inspection outcomes. Important consumer information provided alongside explains the scope and limitations of the inspection, emphasizing that this report is neither a guarantee against future infestations nor a warranty. It also underscores maintenance advice for homeowners to prevent wood-destroying insect infestations, thus serving as a preventive guide alongside its primary function as an inspection document.
Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report
Notice: Please read important consumer information on page 2.
Section I. General Information
Company’s Business Lic. No.
Date of Inspection
Inspection Company, Address & Phone
Address of Property Inspected
Inspector’s Name, Signature & Certification, Registration, or Lic. #
Structure(s) Inspected
Section II. Inspection Findings This report is indicative of the condition of the above identified structure(s) on the date of inspection and is not to be construed as a guarantee or warranty against latent, concealed, or future infestations or defects. Based on a careful visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of the structure(s) inspected:
A. No visible evidence of wood destroying insects was observed.
B. Visible evidence of wood destroying insects was observed as follows:
1. Live insects (description and location):
2. Dead insects, insect parts, frass, shelter tubes, exit holes, or staining (description and location):
3. Visible damage from wood destroying insects was noted as follows (description and location):
NOTE: This is not a structural damage report. If box B above is checked, it should be understood that some degree of damage, including hidden damage, may be present. If any questions arise regarding damage indicated by this report, it is recommended that the buyer or any interested parties contact a qualified structural professional to determine the extent of damage and the need for repairs.
Yes
No
It appears that the structure(s) or a portion thereof may have been previously treated. Visible evidence of possible previous treatment:
The inspecting company can give no assurances with regard to work done by other companies. The company that performed the treatment should be contacted for information on treatment and any warranty or service agreement which may be in place.
Section III. Recommendations
No treatment recommended: (Explain if Box B in Section II is checked)
Recommend treatment for the control of:
Section IV. Obstructions and Inaccessible Areas
The inspector may write out obstructions
The following areas of the structure(s) inspected were obstructed or inaccessible:
or use the following optional key:
Basement
1.Fixedceiling
13. Only visual access
2. Suspended ceiling
14. Cluttered condition
Crawlspace
3. Fixed wall covering
15. Standing water
Main Level
4. Floor covering
16. Dense vegetation
Attic
5.Insulation
17. Exterior siding
6. Cabinets or shelving
18. Window well covers
Garage
7. Stored items
19. Wood pile
Exterior
8.Furnishings
20.Snow
Porch
9.Appliances
21. Unsafe conditions
Addition
10. No access or entry 22. Rigid foam board
11. Limited access
23. Synthetic stucco
Other
12.Noaccessbeneath
24. Duct work, plumbing,
and/or wiring
Section V. Additional Comments and Attachments (these are an integral part of the report)
Attachments
Signature of Seller(s) or Owner(s) if refinancing. Seller acknowledges that
Signature of Buyer. The undersigned hereby acknowledges receipt of a
all information regarding W.D.I. infestation, damage, repair, and treatment
copy of both page 1 and page 2 of this report and understands the information
history has been disclosed to the buyer.
reported.
X
Form NPMA-33(9/01/04) © 2004 National Pest Management Association. All Rights Reserved. No reproduction of this form is permitted without the express permission of NPMA
Page 1 of 2
Form NPCA-1 is obsolete after 12/31/04.
Important Consumer Information Regarding
the Scope and Limitations of the Inspection
Please read this entire page as it is part of this report. This report is not a guarantee or warranty as to the absence of wood destroying insects nor is it a structural integrity report. The inspector’s training and experience do not qualify the inspector in damage evaluation or any other building construction technology and/or repair.
1.About the Inspection: A visual inspection was conducted in the readily accessible areas of the structure(s) indicated (see Page 1) including attics and crawlspaces which permitted entry during the inspection. The inspection included probing and/or sounding of unobstructed and accessible areas to determine the presence or absence of visual evidence of wood destroying insects. The WDI inspection firm is not responsible to repair any damage or treat any infestation at the structure(s) inspected, except as may be provided by separate contract. Also, wood destroying insect infestation and/or damage may exist in concealed or inaccessible areas. The inspection firm cannot guarantee that any wood destroying insect infestation and/or damage disclosed by this inspection represents all of the wood destroying insect infestation and/or damage which may exist as of the date of the inspection.Forpurposesofthisinspection,wooddestroyinginsectsinclude:termites,carpenterants,carpenterbees,and reinfestingwoodboringbeetles.Thisinspectiondoesnotincludemold,mildewornoninsectwooddestroyingorganisms. This report shall be considered invalid for purposes of securing a mortgage and/or settlement of property transfer if not used within ninety (90) days from the date of inspection. This shall not be construed as a 90-day warranty. There is no warranty, express or implied, related to this report unless disclosed as required by state regulations or a written warranty or service agreement is attached.
2.Treatment Recommendation Guidelines Regarding Subterranean Termites: FHA and VA require treatment when any active infestation of subterranean termites is found. If signs of subterranean termites — but no activity — are found in a structure that shows no evidence of having been treated for subterranean termites in the past, then a treatment should be recommended. A treatment may also be recommended for a previously treated structure showing evidence of subterranean termites — but no activity — if there is no documentation of a liquid treatment by a licensed pest control company within the previous five years unless the structure is presently under warranty or covered by a service agreement with a licensed pest control company.
3.Obstructions and Inaccessible Areas: No inspection was made in areas which required the breaking apart or into, dismantling,
removal of any object, including but not limited to: moldings, floor coverings, wall coverings, siding, fixed ceilings, insulation, furniture, appliances, and/or personal possessions; nor were areas inspected which were obstructed or inaccessible for physical access on the date of inspection. Your inspector may write out inaccessible areas or use the key in Section IV. Crawl spaces, attics, and/or other areas may be deemed inaccessible if the opening to the area is not large enough to provide physical access for the inspector or if a ladder was required for access. Crawl spaces (or portions thereof) may also be deemed inaccessible if there is less than 24 inches of clearance from the bottom of the floor joists to the surface below. If any area which has been reported as inaccessible is made accessible, the inspection company may be contacted for another inspection. An additional fee may apply.
4.Consumer Maintenance Advisory Regarding Integrated Pest Management for Prevention of Wood Destroying Insects. Any structure can be attacked by wood destroying insects. Homeowners should be aware of and try to eliminate conditions which promote insect infestation in and around their structure(s). Factors which may lead to wood destroying insect infestation include: earth to wood contact, foam insulation at foundation in contact with soil, faulty grade, improper drainage, firewood against structure(s), insufficient ventilation, moisture, wood debris in crawlspace, wood mulch or ground cover in contact with the structure, tree branches touching structure(s), landscape timbers and wood decay. Should these or other conditions exist, corrective measures should be taken in order to reduce the chances of infestation of wood destroying insects and the need for treatment.
5.Neither the inspecting company nor the inspector has had, presently has, or contemplates having any interest in the property inspected.
Page 2 of 2
Completing the NPMA-33 form is a systematic process that necessitates attention to detail. Once filled, it serves as an official record of the inspection for wood destroying insects at a property at the time of inspection. To ensure accuracy and compliance, follow these steps diligently:
After completing the NPMA-33 form, ensure that all parties have a copy, including the inspection company, the property owner, and the potential buyer. It's crucial to act promptly if the form indicates the need for treatment or if there are recommendations for addressing potential risks. Follow up with the necessary professional services to address any issues noted in the report to ensure the property’s safety and compliance.
What is the purpose of the NPMA-33 Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report?
The NPMA-33 form serves as a detailed report following an inspection for wood-destroying insects in a property. It's used to document the presence or absence of these insects and any damage they may have caused. This form is essential for real estate transactions, helping buyers, sellers, and lenders understand if there are any risks or damage from wood-destroying insects.
What types of insects does the NPMA-33 report cover?
This report covers inspections for termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and re-infesting wood-boring beetles. It's important to note that it does not include mold, mildew, or non-insect wood-destroying organisms.
What does a visual inspection include?
A visual inspection, as outlined in the NPMA-33 report, involves checking readily accessible areas of the property for signs of wood-destroying insects. This includes attics and crawlspaces, where entry is possible. Inspectors may probe and sound unobstructed areas to look for visible evidence but are not responsible for dismantling or moving objects that might obstruct the inspection.
Is the NPMA-33 form a warranty against future infestations or damages?
No, the NPMA-33 form is not a guarantee or warranty against latent, concealed, or future infestations or damages. It represents the condition as of the inspection date and suggests contacting a qualified structural professional for further evaluation if needed.
How long is the NPMA-33 inspection report valid for mortgage or property transfer purposes?
The inspection report is valid for 90 days from the date of inspection for securing a mortgage and/or settlement of property transfer. It is not to be considered as a 90-day warranty against wood-destroying insect damage or infestation.
What happens if evidence of subterranean termites is found?
If active subterranean termite infestation is detected, treatment is typically required, especially for FHA and VA loans. Even if no activity is found, but signs are present in untreated structures, or if a previously treated structure shows new evidence without a recent treatment record, a new treatment may be recommended.
Can parts of the property be deemed inaccessible for inspection? What should be done?
Yes, certain areas may be inaccessible due to obstructions or conditions preventing entry. These areas will be noted in the report. If these inaccessible areas can be made accessible later, it is recommended to contact the inspection company for a follow-up inspection, which may be subject to an additional fee.
What should homeowners do to prevent wood destroying insect infestations?
Homeowners should eliminate conditions that attract wood-destroying insects, such as earth-to-wood contact, moisture issues, and improper drainage, among others. Regular maintenance and addressing these conditions can significantly reduce the risk of infestation and the need for treatment.
Filling out the NPMA-33 Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report accurately is crucial for both homebuyers and sellers. However, common mistakes can lead to misunderstandings or even legal issues down the road. Here are seven mistakes to avoid:
One common error is neglecting to read the important consumer information on page 2. This section details the scope and limitations of the inspection, clarifying that the report is not a guarantee against future infestations. Understanding this information is essential for all parties involved.
Another mistake is providing incomplete information in Section I, which covers general information about the inspection. Every field, including the company's business license number, date of inspection, and inspecting company details, should be meticulously filled out. Leaving any part blank or inaccurately filled can question the report's validity.
Frequently, people skip over the details in Section II regarding inspection findings. If evidence of wood destroying insects is observed, it's vital to provide a thorough description and location of live insects, damage, or signs of previous treatments. Failing to specify these details can lead to disputes or overlooked infestations.
Often, checkboxes regarding visible damage or previous treatment are incorrectly marked. If box B is checked, indicating evidence of wood destroying insects, failing to provide an explanation or recommendation can significantly impact decisions related to the property transaction. This omission can lead to confusion about the property's condition and necessary actions.
Underestimating the importance of Section IV, which outlines obstructions and inaccessible areas, is another common mistake. Clearly listing these limitations helps to set accurate expectations about the inspection's scope and any areas that may need further evaluation.
Not attaching additional comments and attachments as indicated in Section V can also be problematic. This section allows inspectors to provide further clarifications or documentation related to their findings, which can be critical for fully understanding the property's condition.
Finally, a frequent oversight is the failure to obtain the necessary signatures at the bottom of the form. The signatures of the seller(s) or owner(s), if refinancing, and the buyer acknowledge that all parties have understood and agreed to the information provided in the report. Without these signatures, the report's validity might be questioned.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures the NPMA-33 form is accurately and thoroughly completed, providing all parties with clear, comprehensive information about the property's condition concerning wood destroying insects.
When conducting a real estate transaction, especially those that involve securing a mortgage or refinancing, the NPMA-33 Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report plays a crucial role in ensuring the property is free from destructive pests. However, this report is often accompanied by other essential documents to provide a comprehensive understanding of the property's condition and legal standing. Here are seven other forms and documents frequently used alongside the NPMA-33 form.
All these documents, along with the NPMA-33 form, contribute to a transparent and informed transaction process, helping both buyers and sellers navigate through the complexities of real estate deals with greater confidence and security. Each plays a unique role in revealing different aspects of the property, from its structural integrity and environmental safety to its legal standing and market value.
The NPMA-33 Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report shares similarities with the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form. Both documents are critical in the real estate transaction process, ensuring buyers are fully informed about potential risks associated with the property. The Lead-Based Paint Disclosure specifically deals with hazards related to lead paint in homes built before 1978, providing buyers with essential information similar to how the NPMA-33 form informs about wood-destroying insect activity that could impact the integrity of the home.
Residential Property Condition Disclosure forms, required in many states, are akin to the NPMA-33 form in purpose. These forms oblige sellers to divulge known issues with the property, encompassing a broad spectrum from structural problems to pest infestations. While the Residential Property Condition Disclosure forms encompass a wide range of potential defects, the NPMA-33 is specifically concerned with wood-destroying pests, making the latter a more specialized document. Both, however, share the goal of transparency in property transactions.
Home Inspection Reports parallel the NPMA-33 form by detailing the condition of a home at the time of inspection. While Home Inspection Reports cover a comprehensive assessment of various home components—such as roofing, electrical systems, and plumbing—the NPMA-33 focuses exclusively on the presence of wood-destroying insects. Nevertheless, both documents are crucial for potential buyers by revealing either general or specific conditions that might necessitate repairs or otherwise affect their purchase decision.
The Radon Gas and Mold Notice and Release Agreement, like the NPMA-33, addresses specific environmental issues that could affect a prospective buyer's health and safety. Radon and mold disclosures inform the buyer about the risks and presence of these elements within the property, similar to how the NPMA-33 warns of potential insect-related damages. These forms are integral to ensuring buyers are aware of environmental and health risks associated with their potential new homes.
The Seller’s Disclosure of Financing Terms form, while primarily focused on the financial aspects of a property sale, shares an underlying similarity with the NPMA-33 form in that it discloses crucial information that could affect the buyer’s decision. While one pertains to the condition of the property in terms of pest infestation, the other relates to the terms under which the seller is willing to finance the property. Both documents thus play essential roles in the transparency of real estate transactions.
Utility Transfer and Easement Agreements, similar to the NPMA-33, address specific details purchasers must be aware of before acquiring property. These agreements inform buyers about the utility setup and any existing easements that could restrict property use—comparable to how the NPMA-33 outlines potential or existing wood-destroying insect issues that could impose limitations on the property's safety and usability.
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Standards of Practice document, though broader in scope, shares the fundamental aim of the NPMA-33. Both set forth standards for inspecting homes, but while ASHI’s Standards provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the general condition of a home, the NPMA-33 zeroes in on pest infestation issues. Each in its way contributes to a thorough understanding of a property's condition.
Real Estate Purchase Agreements formalize the terms and conditions of a property sale, including provisions for inspections like those covered by the NPMA-33 form. While the Purchase Agreement outlines the agreement’s entirety, including price and contingencies, the inclusion of specific inspections, such as for wood-destroying insects, underscores the importance of both documents in ensuring buyers are informed and protected.
Environmental Hazard Disclosures, mandated in certain areas, reveal the presence of potential environmental risks associated with a property. Like the NPMA-33, these disclosures focus on keeping the buyer informed about specific concerns that could affect the livability, safety, or value of the property. The focus on wood-destroying insects in the NPMA-33 is an example of disclosing such specific risks to ensure informed decisions.
Termite Bond Agreements, often supplemental to the NPMA-33, offer another layer of protection and assurance post-inspection by providing treatment and prevention services against termite infestation. While the NPMA-33 documents the current state of infestation and damage, Termite Bond Agreements address future risks, making them complementary documents in real estate transactions aimed at managing and mitigating the impact of wood-destroying insects.
When it comes to filling out the NPMA-33 Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report, accuracy, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of the sections are crucial. Here are some dos and don'ts to ensure your form is completed correctly and efficiently.
Do:
Don't:
By following these dos and don'ts, you’ll create a detailed and precise NPMA-33 form that serves as a valuable tool for property transactions, helping protect all parties involved against the potential risks of wood destroying insect damage.
Understanding the NPMA-33 form is crucial for anyone involved in buying or selling a property, yet several misconceptions often cloud its real purpose and scope. This document is essential for identifying potential wood-destroying insect (WDI) infestations that might affect the structure’s integrity. Let’s address some of the common myths:
This is a misunderstanding. The NPMA-33 form, as explicitly stated, is an inspection report that documents the presence or absence of wood-destroying insects at the time of inspection. It does not provide any guarantee or warranty against future infestations or damages that may occur after the date of inspection.
Actually, the NPMA-33 form specifically targets wood-destroying insects such as termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and reinfesting wood boring beetles. It does not include inspections for other pests like rodents, cockroaches, or non-insect wood-destroying organisms like fungi.
The form does include a section on visible damage from wood-destroying insects. However, it's crucial to understand that this is not a structural damage report. If damage is noted, it only indicates that damage from wood-destroying insects was observed, not the extent or severity of the damage. A qualified professional should be consulted for a comprehensive evaluation.
Finding no visible evidence of wood-destroying insects does not mean the property is free from other issues. The form does not assess mold, mildew, or the general condition of the property. Moreover, insects could still be present in inaccessible areas not covered by the inspection.
The inspection is limited to readily accessible areas where a visual inspection can be performed without moving, dismantling, or destructing any part of the building. Sections of the property that are obstructed or not easily accessible, such as certain crawlspaces or areas behind heavy furniture, are not covered by this inspection.
Correctly understanding the NPMA-33 form is essential for property transactions. It ensures that all parties have accurate expectations about what the form signifies regarding wood-destroying insect inspections. Knowledge of these common misconceptions helps clarify the form's purpose, scope, and limitations.
Filling out and using the NPMA-33 form, known as the Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report, is a critical step in the home buying or selling process. Below are nine key takeaways that everyone involved should keep in mind:
Understanding and properly utilizing the NPMA-33 form can significantly influence the handling of wood destroying insect issues in real estate transactions. It provides crucial information that protects the interests of sellers, buyers, and homeowners alike.
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