Under-Construction Flat Buyers: How to Check Anti-Termite Compliance

When you buy a flat under construction, anti-termite treatment is something you cannot inspect after possession, because it is in the soil beneath the building. Your only chance to verify it is during construction or through documents. A few polite questions and requests can make a difference.

This guide gives a practical checklist for buyers.

The short answer

To check anti-termite compliance in an under-construction flat, ask the builder in writing whether pre-construction soil treatment is being done at each stage, which provider and chemical are used, request treatment certificates and photos, ask whether it follows the relevant Indian Standard (IS 6313), confirm what warranty is provided and who honours it, and visit the site at key stages if possible. Keep the builder's written replies and ask for documents before possession.

Stages to ask about

1. Foundation excavation: Treatment of trenches and pits before concrete.
2. Plinth and backfill: Treatment of backfilled soil around the plinth.
3. Floor base: Soil below the ground floor slab.
4. Junctions and services: Around pipes and at wall-floor joints.
5. Perimeter: Treatment around the building edge.

Questions for the builder

• Which pest control company is doing the treatment?
• Which chemical, what concentration and how much is used?
• Is it done at every stage, and are records kept?
• Will you provide the treatment certificate and warranty before possession?
• Is wood used in the building treated, and how?
• Who is responsible if termites appear after handover?

Documents to request

1. Treatment certificate with dates, areas and chemical.
2. Warranty with duration and terms.
3. Photos or site visit reports from key stages.
4. Details of the pest control contractor.

If you visit the site

• Ask when treatment will take place and, if possible, be present.
• Check that timber and wood waste are not buried in the soil.
• Check that the work happens before concrete is poured.
• Take dated photos.

At handover

• Confirm that you have all documents.
• Inspect wooden fittings, wall bases and ground-floor areas for signs.
• Note the defect liability period and the terms for termite problems.

When to call a professional

An independent inspector can review the documents and inspect the finished flat. For ground-floor flats and larger projects, this is especially worthwhile.

Frequently asked questions

Can I check treatment after the flat is built?

Not directly. You rely on documents and an inspection for signs of activity.

What if the builder will not share documents?

Ask in writing and note the refusal. It is a warning sign.

Do upper floors need the same check?

The treatment is at ground level, but the building's protection affects all floors.

Is the warranty transferable?

Ask. It depends on the terms.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on termite control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full termite treatment guide for Bangalore.