Termites in the Charente

Member since 14 February 2016

AndynkerMember16 February 2016 17:26:45

Hi, we are planning to retire to Fance in two years and high on the list for a number of reason is the Charente, inland.

As we are getting closer to our dream move, we have started making more detailed enquiries into the realities of living in that area.

We have been surprised to find that most areas in Western France are within the red zone for termite infestation. In fact, it would seem, 42% of properties in the Charente are affected by termite infestation.

Can those of you living in such areas give us some idea of the realities of this problem, should we be put off moving to this area?

Do you have any advice as to how to avoide infestations -

we are aware of the legal obligations on sellers regarding this.

Thanks, Andy and Ker

Fred Indonesia Expert

Member since 02 August 2009

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Max Eastman

FredIndonesia Expert16 February 2016 21:10:52

28734

Not your desired country, but I have a little experience - a very little.

Termites are nasty creatures that will easily destroy a house by eating away any and all timber they get into.
They're difficult to see at first and almost impossible to get rid off once they're established
You have to make sure the roof/ceiling supports are aluminium, not wood, or you're in trouble.

This is what was left of my next door neighbour's roof supports

He found out after this happened.

I immediately checked our roof, finding obvious termite damage but the rental period was almost over so we moved house rather than go through the trouble of moving out while the roof was removed and replaced, then moving back.