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What is a CL-100?

One of the primary attractions for low country living in South Carolina is our salubrious climate. Plenty of sunshine and breezes, plus our proximity to the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, create the perfect environment for enjoyment and relaxation. Unfortunately, that climate can contribute to a significant problem with property — termites. 

When buying or selling real estate in South Carolina that involves a lender, a CL-100 is a vital item on your check-off list. Technically known as the South Carolina Wood Infestation Report (WIR), the CL-100 is a mandatory report from a certified termite inspector that the home you wish to buy or sell is free from termites and other pests that love wood. 

The Basics of a CL-100 

The CL-100 report basically details any visible infestation and damage caused to a home by termites, wood-destroying beetles, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and wood-decaying fungi in accessible areas of a home. Since the South Carolina low country is hot and humid, and most structures are built from white pine (a termite delicacy), this report is required when borrowing money to buy property. 

You want a “CL-100 clear” report, (meaning ‘clear letter’) that verifies your home is free from the above pests and any detectable damage that would necessitate repairs. Any licensed pest control contractor in South Carolina can provide this inspection and report. 

What is Involved in a CL-100 Inspection? 

A licensed pest control professional will visually inspect your property (or the property you wish to purchase). He or she will look throughout and underneath the property for signs of: 

  • Active infestation of termites or other wood-destroying insects
  • Previous infestation of termites or other wood-destroying insects
  • Previous termite treatment 
  • Active wood-destroying fungi below the main floor (indicating a wood moisture content of 28% or above).  
  • Visibly damaged wooden members below the main first floor of the home including columns, sills, door jambs, exterior stairs, and porches.

 If the damage is enough to warrant further investigation, the inspector can recommend a deeper inspection by a structural engineer licensed and registered with the SC Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulations

Any repairs or pest remediation must be performed before a reinspection can issue a clear CL-100 report. 

Protect Your South Carolina Home 

Prevention is always better than a cure, so combat termites by never letting them or other pests get a foothold. Jeff Cook Real Estate recommends getting a termite bond with a reputable company. Be sure to review the contract with any company and know how often termite treatments will be made, as well as the levels of liability coverage for any damage that could occur. 

You should also follow these recommendations to keep your home clear of pests: 

  • Remove debris near your home and in crawl spaces.
  • Avoid piling wood near your home. 
  • Avoid using wood mulch in landscaping near your home. 
  • Provide adequate ventilation in crawl spaces and between plants and exterior walls.
  • Install proper drainage solutions around your home. 
  • Eliminate wood-to-ground contacts.
  • Remove dense vegetation growing close to the foundation or siding. 

For more help with buying or selling a home in South Carolina, including more information about CL-100 inspections and other aspects of closing, contact Jeff Cook Real Estate




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