Why New Homeowners Need to Have a Termite Inspection

Purchasing a home is stressful enough. No one wants to find unpleasant surprises after closing the sale and taking possession of the keys.

That is why a home inspection – specifically a termite inspection by a pest control professional – is so crucial. Without a thorough inspection, termite damage may go unseen and cause serious problems with the appearance and structural integrity of your home.

It’s hard to believe that tiny termites can lead to such big problems, causing more than $5 billion in damage to property each year. Their cellulose-heavy diet includes wooden materials in unprotected homes. They can chew through your wood beams, decks, floors, trims, cabinets, furniture, and more, and cost you thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars in repairs.

Does NY Require Termite Inspection?

While the state does not mandate termite inspections for home sales, your lender may require one. If you are purchasing your home with a federally backed VA, HUD, or FHA loan then a certified termite inspection is mandatory nationwide.

Will a Bank Finance a House With Termites?

Because ongoing termite damage can decrease the value of a property, most lenders require termite inspection and remediation before finalizing a loan. Typically, they require a termite clearance letter from a certified pest inspector stating that the property has been inspected and is free from active infestation.

They may also request a list of prior termite damage that was found during the inspection. If an infestation or damage is discovered, you will need to work with the seller to determine who is responsible for making the necessary remediations and repairs so the sale can move forward.

Is It Bad to Buy a House That Has Been Treated for Termites?

If the termite problem has been resolved and any prior damage addressed, there is no reason to cross the home off your list of possibilities.

Current termite treatments are highly effective, and proper use of preventatives should keep the destructive pests from returning. Even if the home is now termite-free, you may be able to use a previous infestation or prior damage as a negotiating point when reaching a final purchase price.

Can You Get Termites in New Home Construction?

Current building codes reduce the likelihood of termites finding their way into a newly constructed home… but an infestation is still possible. It is much easier to find and eliminate termites in the initial stages of an infestation than it is to find out later once damage has occurred.

For your peace of mind, we recommend termite inspections for new homes as well as older ones.

Does Homeowners Insurance Protect Against Termites?

Homeowners insurance rarely, if ever, covers termite damage. Pest prevention is the responsibility of the homeowner/policyholder. If termites cause damage, the homeowner must shoulder the cost of repairs.

Twin Forks Pest Control® is Your Long Island Termite Expert

Whether you are purchasing a home or have lived in your home for many years, Twin Forks Pest Control® is your Long Island Termite expert. For more than 20 years, we have helped residents and businesses with termite inspection, removal, and prevention. To schedule an inspection, or for a free, no-obligation estimate, contact us online or call (631) 324-9020 in East Hampton; (631) 287-9020 in Southampton, or (631) 298-0500 in Southold.