Termite Damage during inspection

[Ryan Tongue]

Hey guys!

I'm under contract for a duplex in Muskegon, Michigan. The inspection report came back showing signs of old termite damage. I'm a new investor so I haven't dealt with this before, but I'm aware that termites can potentially be really bad. The inspector doesn't think it's serious or current, but I'd really like some further input from BP. This is what the inspector said:

"One main beam has termite damage. Also found a few floor joists with termite damage. No dust was found so it appears like this might be from past and not current. Suggest treating the areas and possibly installing sister boards to firm up the beams. The main beam also has been cut to accommodate a drain pipe. This has effected the structural integrity of the main beam. This will continue to drop over time and should be secured correctly."

[Drew Sygit]

@Ryan Tongue have heard of termites in Michgan before, but have never SEEN termites in Michigan.

Winter usually kills them.

The biggest challenge with this issue is doing it properly. 

Look up sistering requirements - to do it correctly you should span two support areas at the end of the repair area. You CAN sister an area with no support, but it is not as effective.

The main beam is more important as it's supporting the floor joists. You could sister it and/or dig & pour 24" deep concrete pads in the floor to support additional jackposts. 

The pain is removing all HVAC, plumbing & electrical so you can sister or replace a beam or joist and then put them all back in.