NM, Norwich
It is a bit early in the year for fresh emergence of wood-boring beetles. However, what you have described — new holes with “sawdust” underneath — is a classic indication that you have an infestation. The “sawdust” is called “frass” — the dust produced by larvae and adults biting through the wood, mixed with faecal pellets. Sometimes frass can be dislodged from old holes by vibration, so if you have been doing any building work, this could be the reason.
If so, wait until summer and check for fresh holes again.
Otherwise, you should check with your solicitor to see if there was a guarantee passed on at the time of the sale. DIY products are not suited to anything other than localised small-scale treatments.
If you do have a live infestation, it may not be contained by localised treatment. If and when you come to sell the property, it may be picked up by a surveyor, who will suggest a specialist survey and a guarantee.
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Contact the Property Care Association, a division of the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (01332 225 100, www.bwpda.co.uk) to find a contractor. Make sure that you protect the guarantee.
Richard Strand is executive director of the British Pest Control Association