Woodboring insect attack is just one of the common defects that our surveyors look for as part of
their survey inspections. Woodboring insect attack relates to attack of timbers by insects, mainly
beetles of which the larvae after hatching from eggs submerge themselves in the wood for a period
of time before eating and tunnelling themselves back to the surface and exiting the timber leaving
what is known as flight holes. Flight holes leave small exit or emergence holes and an active
infestation can also leave a trail of powdered wood from flight holes known as ‘frass’. Woodboring
insect attack causes decay to the timber and can structurally weaken timbers, which can lead to
collapse.

There are different types of woodboring beetles that can attack different types of timber, but timber
is even more likely to be attacked if it contains moisture and is situated in areas where ventilation is
poor.

As part of our survey inspections, surveyors will visually look for signs of old flight holes and
powdered wood (frass) to visible/accessible areas of timber. Timbers that can be attacked include
structural timbers, furniture etc.

Timber treatment specialists can be engaged to treat woodboring insect attack with a chemical
treatment however, in more severe cases and depending on the extent of the infestation and type of
beetle, timbers may need to be replaced. It is important that such a defect is diagnosed and
adequately dealt with to avoid timbers becoming structurally weakened or collapsing and that the
infestation is cleared. Many timber treatment specialists will also provide a guarantee for treatments
carried out.