Woodworm in a Property Survey: A Buyer's Complete Guide

Seeing woodworm in a survey report is worrying. It is also common, particularly in older homes. This guide explains what the note means, what to do next and how to protect your purchase.

What the report means

A general survey may mention signs of woodworm. It usually does not say whether the beetle is active. The surveyor may recommend a specialist inspection, because they cannot judge the timber in detail. However, a note is not a verdict.

Many notes refer to old holes in a loft or floor. Those often need no treatment. Treat the note as a prompt for a check, not a reason to walk away.

Step 1: ask for a specialist report

A timber specialist can name the beetle, check whether it is active and say what needs doing. Ask for a written report. It helps you decide, and a lender may want to see it.

Our page on what a survey covers explains what to expect.

Step 2: ask the seller what they know

Ask whether the seller has had treatment. Request any paperwork, such as reports and invoices. Old records can show that the problem ended years ago, although you should still check.

Records of guarantees or warranties are only as good as the firm behind them, since a closed firm cannot honour them. Check who issued them and whether they transfer to a buyer.

Step 3: judge the risk

Consider the findings:

• Old holes, no activity. Often no action is needed.
• Active beetle, light damage. Treatment is usually enough.
• Weak timber. Repairs may be needed, and a structural check is wise.

Our guide to is woodworm dangerous? helps you weigh the risk.

Step 4: get costs

Ask for a written quote. Published UK guides put a whole house at about £800 to £1,000 or more, and a loft at £500 to £800 outside London. Repairs add to that. The cost guide lists the sources.

Step 5: negotiate

If the specialist finds active beetle, you can ask the seller to treat it, to cut the price or to share the cost. Get any agreement in writing before you exchange contracts. A solicitor can help.

Step 6: after you buy

Keep the survey and any treatment records with your property papers, because a future buyer may ask for them. Check the loft and floors each spring. If you plan a loft conversion or new floor, check the timber first.

Mortgages

A lender may ask for a timber report if the survey flags woodworm. A clear specialist report can answer that. Ask your lender what they need, because requirements differ, and do so before you exchange.

Ready to take the next step? Request a survey, or read what to do if you find woodworm.

Homes differ by city, so local advice helps. Our pages on woodworm treatment in Nottingham and woodworm treatment in Plymouth explain the usual problems.

To go deeper, read about the spray treatment and the structural timber repair, because the right method depends on the beetle.