The South African Pest Control Association (SAPCA) recently voiced its concern over the potential decrease of south African property values due to unnecessary structural damage caused by inadequate soil preparation. According to the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act 103 of 1977), buildings shall be, where so required by the local authority or in areas of high termite infestations are protected from subterranean termite activity. ?Unfortunately some pest control technicians and builders do not adhere to these regulations,? says Lynette Cokayne, the CEO of SAPCA. ?They are brushed off as not essential.? Soil poisoning refers to the application of pesticides and termiticide to the soil during the pre-construction of a building. This is to prevent termites from infesting the building and causing structural damage. Termites feed on wood and serve an important function by converting dead trees into organic matter. These insects have micro-organisms in the digestive systems that help digest cellulose. Although termites are soft-bodied insects their hard jaws bite off small fragments of wood and when termites feed on the wood in buildings they can cause serious damage to the structure of a building. SAPCA encourages all future buyers of buildings and homes as well as developers to ensure that they are aware of the proper requirements for soil preparation and that they demand that the correct process was followed as well as using qualified people. One of the biggest concerns is the damage to the foundation or underlying structure of the house. It can?t always be detected but as structural damage becomes more severe it can cause sagging floors, cracks in walls and other damage to the house. Subsequent injection and drilling will add to the cost of the property. Home appraisals determine the value of the house when a prospective buyer applies for a loan or when the owner wants to sell or wishes to determine the value at any other time. When appraised a home with structural damage will have a significantly reduced value. The entire building is affected by the condition of the foundation and any weaknesses or damage to the foundation will be viewed as a risk for the entire structure and will have a negative effect on the final evaluation. SAPCA advises the public to ensure that they have a reputable pest control company managing the termite prevention process and other pest control needs. To find a SAPCA member near you, visit their website at www.sapca.org.za