Buying a house with a termite warranty

According to recent statistics, termites damage 600,000 homes each year. Some areas and homes are more prone to termite infestation and damage than others, but no home is immune to termites. Many people falsely think a brick home is immune to termite damage, but that isn’t so. For people living in high termite infestation areas, it is important to consider how to proceed with home purchases where termites may be a problem. This is true for homes where termite damage has occurred, or where it may be imminent. Some homes will come with a termite warranty. To use a termite warranty effectively you’ll need to understand what a termite warranty is and what it covers. 

What is a Termite Warranty?

Treating a home for termites, whether it is a treatment for existing damage or pretreatment for new construction, includes a warranty. Most exterminators will offer a one-year warranty. The warranty may state future infestations are covered at no cost to the homeowner. The warranty effectively promises that the treatment performed is adequate. If you notice evidence of a reinfestation, you will need to call the extermination company that holds your warranty. You will likely need to schedule an inspection. Upon inspection, they will be able to tell you what needs treatment, the best course of action, and any damage that has occurred due to the infestation.

Is a Termite Bond the Same Thing as a Termite Warranty?

A termite bond is different than a termite warranty. A termite bond is an agreement between a homeowner and an extermination company to deal with termites. With a termite bond, you, the homeowner, keep the exterminator on retainer in case of termite infestation.

While termite bonds act similar to homeowners’ insurance, you will want to find out exactly what is included in a bond before you make a decision. Sometimes these will include a warranty, which includes retreatment at no additional cost. You will also want to ask whether they include inspections in the bond price, or if they incur an additional cost.

What Do I Need to Know Before I Purchase My Home with a Termite Warranty?

Before you make a final decision on purchasing a home with a termite warranty, you’ll want to take a few extra steps. Asking a few additional questions to ensure you are getting what you need will save you in the long run.

You’ll want to find out why they are offering the warranty for your new home. Some warranties come with new builds, while others are issued after an infestation has been identified and treated. 

If your home is a new build, you’ll want to know if pretreatment was performed. You will also want to know whether they build their homes using termite resistant materials.

You should ask how long the termite warranty lasts, and whether it includes inspections. Some warranties will include free retreatment, but will not include the cost of inspections or damage repair.

You should also find out if your home is in a high-infestation area. Some areas are simply more prone to termite infestation than others. Knowing whether your home is in such an area, can help you stay vigilant.  

Call Budget Brothers

For more information about a termite warranty, or any other pest-related problems, call the professionals at Budget Brothers Termite & Pest. We can help you assess the issue and quickly stamp out a termite infestation.