Purchasing a home is a major life milestone, but hidden termite damage can quickly turn that joy into stress. The good news? A history of termites doesn’t automatically mean a home should be ignored. With the right knowledge and professional guidance, you can confidently move forward in the sale, while preserving your new home’s value.
Termites are often referred to as “silent destroyers” for a reason. They can quietly eat away at wood, flooring, and support structures for years before anyone notices. Because colonies take time to grow large enough to detect, it’s easy for previous owners to miss the warning signs. That’s why it’s crucial to include a termite inspection as part of your home-buying checklist. A licensed inspector can spot current infestations as well as signs of past damage or repairs.
Let’s break down what to expect if you’re considering a home with a termite history, and how to move forward with confidence.
Considering a Home With Termite Damage? Here’s What You Should Know
It’s completely normal to have concerns about unseen damage or the risk of reinfestation. If the home has an active termite issue, immediate treatment is non-negotiable. But if the damage is old and already repaired, your focus should shift to preventing future problems.
As part of your due diligence, ask for a wood-destroying insect (WDI) report. This inspection reveals any past or present termite activity, equipping you with the insights needed to make a smart purchasing decision.
Also keep in mind that termite history can affect your homeowner’s insurance. Some providers will request proof, like the WDI report, to confirm the home is currently free of active infestations.
Spot the Signs: What Termites Look Like
Because termites are small and often confused with carpenter ants, it’s helpful to understand what sets them apart. Termites have straight antennae, a thicker waist, and four wings that are all the same length. Their coloring usually ranges from pale white to light brown.
In New York, the most common species is the Eastern subterranean termite. These pests have dark brown to black bodies with translucent, whitish wings. Without close inspection, they can be difficult to distinguish from other insects.
Is it Alright to Buy a Home With Termite Damage?
That depends on the extent of the damage. If repairs are extensive and the structural integrity is struggling, it may not be worth the risk or cost. Before moving forward, you should bring in a licensed termite professional for a full evaluation. A structural engineer should also assess any compromised areas to ensure the home’s framework and foundation are still sound.
In some cases, the inspection findings can give you room to negotiate. You might ask the seller to handle repairs before closing or reduce the price to account for the cost of restoring the damage.
Early Warning Signs of Termite Damage
Termites don’t always leave obvious damage. These sneaky pests often work behind the scenes, gnawing away at wood, wallpaper, and even your flooring, weakening the very bones of your home before anyone notices. Stay alert for these signs that termites may already be causing trouble:
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Buckling or warped floors
- Peeling paint that looks like water damage
- Tiny holes in drywall
- Mud tubes on exterior walls
Are Termite Treatments a Safe Choice for Your Home?
Yes, when performed by trained professionals like Arrow Exterminating, termite treatments are handled with care. We understand that protecting your household goes beyond just getting rid of pests. That’s why we use eco-friendly, GreenPro-certified solutions that are thoughtfully chosen with your home, pets, and family in mind.
Our team applies treatments with precision and efficiency, focusing on targeting termites while reducing impact on your surroundings.
Why Professional Termite Prevention Matters
DIY fixes can offer temporary relief, but they rarely provide the comprehensive protection your home truly needs. Simple actions like removing wood-to-ground contact or addressing leaks are helpful, but long-term prevention calls for help from the experts.
When you partner with Arrow Exterminating, you’ll receive a full range of preventative services, including:
- Inspections to identify vulnerabilities.
- Installation of termite barriers and monitoring systems.
- Eco-friendly treatments to create a protective shield around your home.
Protect Your New Home From Termites Before It’s Too Late
When termites enter your home, time is not on your side. The longer they go unnoticed, the more damage they can do, and the more expensive repairs become. That’s why acting quickly with professional help is the smartest way to protect your property.
Arrow Exterminating offers termite control you can rely on. Our licensed technicians conduct detailed inspections, detect subtle signs of activity, and apply targeted, environmentally responsible treatments. We also create custom protection plans tailored to your home’s needs, ideally before the purchase is finalized.
Ready to take a step toward professional pest control? Give us a call or fill out our online contact form to get started today.
