Entomological Report in Cape Town

Why a Beetle Certificate/Entomology Report is Essential in the Western Cape

In the humid, coastal climate of Cape Town, wood-destroying insects thrive. While an Electrical or Plumbing COC is required by law, an Entomology report  is a contractual necessity driven by the South African property market and financial institutions.

Most banks will not register a mortgage bond in the Western Cape without a “clean” entomology report. This protects the bank’s investment—and yours—from structural collapse caused by infestations that often remain hidden deep inside roof trusses and floorboards.

What Species Are Covered?

A standard Cape Town Deed of Sale usually specifies that the property must be free from certain “notifiable” beetles. At ComplyNow, our SAPCA-registered inspectors focus on the species that cause the most economic damage:

Hylotrupes bajulus (European House Borer): The most dangerous of the three. It attacks seasoned softwood (like pine roof trusses) and can cause structural failure before any outward signs are visible.

Anobium punctatum (Common Furniture Beetle): Typically found in older wooden flooring, skirtings, and antique furniture.

Oxypleuris nodieri (Brown House Borer): Similar to the European House Borer, it targets structural timbers in roof spaces and fascia boards.

WDO vs. General Pest Control

It is important to note that a Beetle COC is not the same as a general “Pest Control” certificate.

• Beetle Certificate: Focuses specifically on insects that destroy the structural integrity of the wood.

• Pest Control: Deals with public health pests like cockroaches, rodents, and ants. While we can assist with general pest
  eradication, your property transfer specifically requires the
  specialised Entomology/WDO sign-off provided by a registered Wood-Destroying Organisms inspector.

Entomology Report Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is a Beetle Certificate valid for in Cape Town? A Beetle COC is typically valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Because beetle larvae can remain dormant inside wood for years before emerging, banks and conveyancers require a very recent report to ensure no new activity has started during the sale process.

• • What happens if the inspector finds an active infestation? If active beetles are found, the property fails the inspection. We will provide a detailed report and a quote for remedial treatment (which may include localized injection or full fumigation). Once the treatment is complete, we issue the Clearance Certificate at no extra inspection cost.

  • Does the certificate cover “old” damage? Yes and no. A Beetle COC certifies that there is no active infestation. If we find old exit holes but no “fresh frass” or live larvae, the property may still pass, provided the structural integrity of the timber hasn’t been compromised.

  • Are Sectional Title units (Flats) exempt? In most cases, yes. Since the Body Corporate is responsible for the “common property” (including the roof), individual flat owners are rarely asked for a beetle certificate unless the bank specifically requests it for internal timber features.

  • Why is Cape Town a “high-risk” area? The Western Cape is a “notifiable area” for certain species like Hylotrupes bajulus. The combination of our winter rainfall and summer heat creates the perfect breeding ground for wood-borers, making the certificate a standard safety net for every Cape Town sale.

Entomology Report

Entomology Report