When selling a house, there are many exciting decisions to make regarding renovating and landscaping, which often promise to add value to your property.
However, there are also more pressing matters that are not so enjoyable - namely, infestations.
Terry Fisher, who specialises in fast property purchases, said: "Signs of an infestation such as droppings in a loft or boreholes in timber are often dismissed until it’s time to sell.
**ARE YOU READING THIS ON OUR APP? DOWNLOAD NOW FOR THE BEST GB NEWS EXPERIENCE**
Rats and mice can become pests by chewing through electrical wiring
|GETTY
"Then they crop up when a sale is in progress or a survey is carried out. In some cases, it can deter buyers, and in others, it can completely collapse a sale."
In certain cases, particular infestations can even plummet a property's value by up to 20 per cent, Terry warned. The most common pests in urban areas, rats, can prove particularly detrimental to homes, establishing nests and even becoming a health hazard.
What's more, they can nibble through electric wiring, as well as damage previously pristine woodwork. It comes as no surprise that the furry pests can become such a headache for homeowners.
"When selling a home, you need to declare all known information - including details of past and present infestations," Terry flagged.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
"If a rat infestation was small and occurred several years ago, then it might not make much difference to a house’s value at all, especially if preventative measures have been put in place. But if it’s ongoing and you have failed to take action, this could spell a problem."
The expert advised requesting an expert to compile a report on the issue and offer a solution. Otherwise, you might risk deterring potential buyers or causing the price to dwindle.
Another hidden infestation that could threaten house prices is woodworm, the exceedingly common issue that often goes undetected in roof timbers and floor joists.
Without proper treatment, the larvae can cause "serious structural damage" and, ultimately, damage a respectable house price.
Weighing in on the matter, Terry advised: "Acting fast is key with woodworm, but that’s easier said than done when they often live silently, eating their way into the roof timbers and underneath floors."
'Acting fast is key with woodworm, but that’s easier said than done'
|GETTY
Another cause for concern is dry rot, which is regularly recorded in older buildings. The fungus generally gravitates towards damp locations.
If left to run rampant, your masonry and plaster can fall under threat - and can become an expensive fix, potentially running into the thousands.
Like with rats and woodworm, it is best to consult the experts if you notice the rot, which manifests in a white, fluffy growth, cracking or breaking timber, alongside a horrid smell.
Terry added: "With all types of infestations, delaying things is dangerous. If you suspect a problem, act fast and speak to a professional to avoid a negative impact on your property’s value."