Artà Warns After Roof Collapse: Termites Discovered - Residents Advised to Have Inspections

Partially collapsed roof: termites identified as the cause

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In Artà, a small but serious incident startled many neighbors: in a house on Carrer de les Roques, a piece of roof suddenly gave way. Fortunately no one was injured, but during the inspection experts found termites in the wooden structure.

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The town hall has therefore asked residents in the surrounding area to have their houses checked — as soon as possible. Sounds dramatic? Yes. Reason to panic? Not necessarily. But: the earlier you detect a problem, the less cost and trouble later.

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What to look out for now

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Check door frames, roof beams and visible wooden elements. Typical signs are:

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• wood that feels crumbly or sounds hollow when tapped;
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• fine, sandy deposits (frass) or small dirt tunnels on walls;
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• sunk or tilted floors and doors that suddenly no longer close properly;
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• discolored or crumbly wood in dark, poorly ventilated areas — basements, roof structures, behind coverings.
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Termites work quietly and unobtrusively. Sometimes damage goes unnoticed until quite a bit has already been destroyed.

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Practical steps for those affected

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If you see something suspicious: note it, photograph it, and hire a professional pest control company. DIY methods and home remedies may seem tempting but often only provide short-term help. Insurance does not always cover every damage; therefore a careful look at the policy — and the discussion with the municipality or a certified assessor — is worthwhile.

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The municipality itself asks residents to have inspections carried out by qualified pest control experts and to report damages to the town hall, so that potential systematic checks can be organized. If you need help finding service providers, you should contact the municipal administration — best by email or in person, not via random ads.

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A few honest words at the end

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I'm not a panic-monger, but the neighbor who wants to know what's going on. A small piece of roof giving way is a good reason to take a closer look. And: inspections take time initially, but can save thousands of euros later. So: keep an eye out, take photos, ask professionals. Better to act now than to renovate later.

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Note: In case of acute danger (structural components at high risk of collapse), please immediately inform the fire department or the municipal technical service.