Commercial Woodworm Treatment
Guidance for landlords, agents and estates, because clear records protect sales and lettings.
- Plan work around your building
- Get findings in writing
- Request a survey for any site
Woodworm advice for landlords, agents and estates
Property managers face the same beetles as homeowners, although the stakes differ. A missed infestation can delay a sale, upset tenants or hide a repair bill. This page explains what to ask for when you manage more than one building.
Landlords
You must keep a rented home safe and in good repair. A written survey and a clear record help if a tenant reports holes.
Letting and managing agents
Agents often see the first report. A standard process saves time, because tenants know who to call.
Estates and portfolios
Many buildings mean many surveys. A single scope and a written record per building keep costs clear.
Listed and historic buildings
Old oak and thick walls need care. Work may need consent, so speak to the conservation officer first.
Property sales
Buyers and lenders may ask for a timber report. A clean report before listing can avoid a late price cut.
Offices, shops and hospitality
Trading premises need work planned around opening hours. Ask about out-of-hours options.
Managed buildings hide the timber beetles like
Roof voids, cellars, stair cupboards and shared sub-floors rarely get inspected. Because nobody owns the job, damage can run for years. A regular check each spring costs little and finds problems early.
Typical findings include old holes with no activity, active furniture beetle in roof timbers and damp joist ends. The fix depends on the finding, so ask for a written report each time.
Treatment that fits around your building
Out-of-hours work
Many jobs can run evenings or weekends. Ask the specialist to confirm access and noise limits.
Phased work
Large buildings can be treated in stages. That keeps most of the building in use.
Low odour
Water-based products have little smell. Follow the written re-entry advice for each area.
Records
Keep the survey, the quote and the treatment record for each building. They help at sale, letting and insurance renewal.
What to ask for in writing
- The beetle found and whether it is active
- The timber and rooms covered
- The method, the product and the date of work
- Any limits, such as areas that could not be reached
Commercial woodworm: your questions
Who is responsible for woodworm in a rented home?
Landlords must keep a home safe and in good repair. Tenants should report holes or dust in writing. Keep a copy of the report.
Can work be done out of hours?
Often yes. Ask the specialist about access, noise and when rooms can reopen.
Do listed buildings need consent?
Some work does. Speak to the local conservation officer and use a specialist who knows historic timber. See death watch beetle.
Can I get one quote for several buildings?
You can ask. Describe each building and compare scopes. See the cost guide for typical prices.
Managing a building with woodworm?
Send the postcode and what you have found, because details speed up the visit. A local specialist will call you.