Buying a home is a major milestone, but termites can turn your dream house into a nightmare. But don’t let that be a deal breaker! If you know what you’re dealing with, you can live happily in a home with previous termite damage. Maintaining your home’s value is, of course, the top priority of any new homeowner.
Termites cause major structural damage silently. And since their colonies can sometimes take years to grow, previous homeowners may not have even noticed them until it was almost too late. That’s why it’s crucial to include termites in a home inspection. Inspectors can catch signs of termite damage or termite damage repair.
So let’s explore what you need to know about these destructive pests and how to protect your investment.
Buying a House With Previous Termite Damage: What to Consider
It’s understandable to be worried about hidden damage and potential ongoing problems when it comes to termites. If there’s an active infestation, it needs to be taken care of right away. But if there are signs of previous damage, now repaired, you need to invest in long-term prevention so they don’t come back.
You can request a thorough termite inspection as part of the home buying process. This is also known as a wood-destroying insect (WDI) report, and it helps uncover any past or current termite activity. From there, it’s easier to take actionable steps towards a termite-free home.
It’s also important to note that termites can impact your homeowner’s insurance. Some companies may require documents (such as the WDI report) that prove that your home is free from termites.
What do these termites look like?
These tiny invaders are often mistaken for carpenter ants, but there are key differences. Termites have straight antennae, a thick waist, and wings of equal size. They’re typically pale in color, ranging from white to light brown.
In Illinois, we deal with the Eastern subterranean termite, which has a brownish-black to black body with translucent white-ish wings.
Should I buy a home with termite damage?
It depends on the damage – if it’s severe, buying may not be worth the risk or investment in repairs. While deliberating, it’s best to have an experienced termite control expert perform an inspection so that you can make an informed decision. Make sure that you also have a structural engineer check any damage to make sure that it doesn’t threaten the integrity of the home.
You may also be able to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price based on the findings during the buying process.
Signs of Termite Damage
When termites set their sights on your home, the results can be devastating. These voracious eaters can chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper, compromising your home’s structural integrity. Some common signs of termite damage include:
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Buckling or warped floors
- Peeling paint that looks like water damage
- Tiny holes in drywall
- Mud tubes on exterior walls
Is termite treatment safe?
Yes, termite treatment is safe when applied by a licensed professional, like Terminix Anderson. We understand that safety is a top concern for homeowners, especially when it comes to pest control. That’s why we’re committed to using eco-friendly, GreenPro-certified products in our termite treatments.
Our professional technicians are trained to apply these treatments safely and effectively, targeting termites while minimizing any impact on your family, pets, or the environment.
How to Prevent Termites in Your House
This is no situation to take on DIY or at-home prevention methods. Removing wood-to-soil contact and fixing moisture issues yourself helps prevent termites – but overall, infestations require professional prevention.
An expert termite team, like Terminix Anderson, will:
- Inspect to identify vulnerabilities.
- Install termite barriers and monitoring systems.
- Apply eco-friendly treatments to create a protective shield around your home.
Protect Your New Home With Professional Pest Control
When it comes to termites, early detection and professional intervention are key. So don’t let these destructive pests threaten your home and investment! The longer termites go undetected, the more extensive and costly the damage becomes. That’s why our professional termite control services are essential for protecting your investment and maintaining your home’s value.
Our comprehensive termite control services offer peace of mind and lasting protection. A licensed professional at Terminix Anderson will conduct comprehensive inspections to identify all termite activity and apply targeted treatments using eco-friendly, GreenPro-certified products. We’ll work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns before your closing date.
Get started with us today by giving our team a call or filling out a contact form here.
