Entomologist Clearance Certificates and fumigation

Most sale agreements of residential properties [well, those near the coast, in any event] contain a clause that obliges the Seller to provide the Purchaser with an Entomologist Clearance Certificate [sometimes referred to as the “pest certificate” or a “woodborer certificate”. Sometimes the entomologist finds these pests and then recommends that the house be tented and fumigated.

I had a look today at the recommendations of the fumigator and am rather pleased that I have not had to move out of a house (yet!) while it gets fumigated. I have set out the list of recommendations for the home owner below. Judge for yourself what a nuisance this would be.

Regards,
Sieg

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The fumigator’s recommendations:

“Please note that it is our intention to fumigate the above-mentioned property for the eradication of woodborer, by using Methyl Bromide Gas.

All persons must vacate the premises when we arrive to commence fumigation. Fumigation is a process that can result in the death of humans and animals. It is therefore imperative that the following precautions are taken and carried out.

1) All humans, animals, pets, fish in tanks and bird seed to be removed from the premises.
2) Remove all unsealed foodstuffs with a liquid content e.g. eggs, butter, milk, meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, bread and cakes and wine.
3) Remove all medicines.
4) Remove all unwashed woollens, furs, kid leather items, Persian/Chinese carpets, thick pile shaggy carpets, latex rubber, yoga mats, pillows (feather and kapok), scatter cushions, suede jackets, army coats, wetsuits, eiderdowns and any pure wool products.
5) Photographic fluids, first aid kits, indoor plants, building blueprints.
6) Precious flowers within 1.5 m of the outside wall. These can be replaced after fumigation.
7) Depending on roof structure, you will need to remove T.V. and radio antennae including satellite dishes.
8) Remove any other items pointed out prior to fumigation.
9) Lock up all your valuables.
10) The building must be vacated a period of 2 days, including 2 nights. Access will be required to the roof void of the building. All rooms will be inspected immediately prior to the fumigation.
11) Notification to be given to insurance companies to inform them that a fumigation is to be carried out.
12) Notify neighbours that a fumigation is to take place, so that they can take precautions with their children and animals. During the fumigation, only authorised, working personnel will be allowed on site.
13) After fumigation air out all rooms, cupboards and drawers. No need to wash or rinse anything after the fumigation as there is no residue.
14) We cannot be held liable for damage caused to any roof structure, gutter, down pipes, electrical wiring or fittings.”

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Quote:

“But borrowing strength builds weakness. It builds weakness in the borrower because it reinforces dependence on external factors to get things done.”

Stephen R Covey in “The 7 habits of highly effective people”, 1989 at p.39