Should you buy a home with a termite history?
Should you buy a home with a termite history? It’s an important question that leads to a lot of other questions: How much does termite damage affect the value of the house? Can you get a mortgage for a house with termite damage? And can you live in a house with termite damage, so long as it can be repaired?
While termites are notorious pests that cause more than $5 billion in property damage each year, treating — and living in — a home with a termite history is absolutely possible. With a little management, you can have that right-sized, right-priced and right-located home of your dreams… without termites.
Should you buy a home with a termite history?
The first step when considering buying a home with a termite history is to collect data. In addition to a traditional home inspector, consider hiring a licensed termite inspector. Regular home inspectors are not trained to recognize termite damage, so working with a termite control professional who can assess your home is key.
An inspection is key for another reason: If you’re getting a mortgage, lenders will want a wood-destroying insect (WDI) inspection to assess the structural soundness of the property and track future treatment.
What will a termite pro look for?
Your termite control professional will be looking for a few things:
- Signs of previous termite damage
- Conditions favorable to termites
- Indications of an active infestation
- Extent of existing damage
A Certified Sentricon Specialist® will report on whether the damage is localized — often an easier fix — or more widespread and difficult to treat.
How much does termite damage affect the value of the house?
If the infestation is no longer active and the property has been repaired, it may not impact your home value at all. But a long-standing problem can lead to reduced market prices, increased repair costs and buyer hesitation — a good reminder why termites should not be left untreated. After all, termite damage is rarely covered by homeowners insurance.
One way to mitigate costs is to negotiate termite treatment and repairs prior to the sale of the home. If the previous owner agrees, you can request a trusted pest management company to ensure the damage is fully repaired.
Often, sellers are responsible for covering termite treatment and repair costs. But even if you have to handle repairs yourself, doing so can save countless thousands down the line. Make sure to document the treatment and repairs for future inspectors and buyers.
How long will termite treatment take?
Every case is different. But going with a proven treatment like the Sentricon® system means you won’t have to change anything about your daily routine while the termite threat is eliminated.
In many cases, the Sentricon system can eliminate a termite colony in 90 days or less. And, even after the infestation is gone, your home will continue to be safeguarded against future threats as long as the system is maintained.
Can you live in a house with termite damage?
Yes! While you should always do your research and collect data before signing on the dotted line, a proper termite inspection, the right termite control team and a clear plan of action can protect your new home from further damage.
Always read and follow label directions.