A dream home with unwanted residents? Keep an eye out for these things during the viewing

You walk into a property and immediately see the potential: a lovely living room, a spacious garden and plenty of room for your furniture. However, it’s wise not to focus solely on the obvious positives during a viewing. Even small signs of pests can reveal something about the condition of the house. By keeping a keen eye out, you can avoid any nasty surprises after the keys have been handed over.

Look beyond the fresh coat of paint

A property is usually tidied up and cleaned thoroughly before it goes on the market. This means problems are less likely to be noticed. So be sure to check the corners, kitchen cupboards, the meter cupboard, the crawl space and the shed. Droppings, gnawed packaging, strange odours or scratching noises may indicate the presence of mice or rats. A large number of silverfish, on the other hand, can be a sign of a damp area.

A single insect or an old trace does not necessarily mean there is an infestation. If you see several signs or are unsure of the cause, ask questions and, if necessary, have the situation investigated further.

Check wooden beams and floors

Wooden components deserve particular attention, especially in older properties. Inspect visible beams, floorboards, stairs and window frames. Small round holes and piles of fine sawdust may indicate woodworm. The larvae live inside the wood and can remain active there for a long time.

Not every hole is evidence of an active infestation. It could also be old damage. However, fresh bore dust or wood that feels soft does require further investigation. Are you looking to buy a property in the capital and suspect an active infestation? A woodworm control specialist in Amsterdam can inspect the wood and assess what action is needed.

What can you do as a seller?

Even when you’re selling your home, it’s wise to take any signs seriously. A pest problem doesn’t usually go away on its own. What’s more, visible signs during a viewing can quickly make potential buyers feel uneasy.

You should therefore have the property inspected in good time to identify the pest, determine its source and assess the extent of the problem. Professional pest control not only tackles the infestation but often also provides advice on how to prevent it from recurring.

Take any concerns into account when making your purchase decision

Have you spotted anything suspicious during a viewing? Take photos, ask specific questions and discuss whether further investigation is needed. This will give you a better picture of the property before you make an offer. A dream home doesn’t have to be completely perfect, as long as you know what you’re buying and what work might still be required.