Whether you’re looking to buy a new home or sell your current one, one tiny thing should be top of mind: termites. Especially in the South, termites can quietly chomp away at your home 24 hours a day, all year round. That’s a scary thought! But don’t worry—we’ve got the termite know-how to protect your home, no matter where you are in the home buying or selling process.
Buyers (& Sellers) Beware
Termite Inspection: WDIR Reports and CL-100s
Terminix offers free termite and pest inspections. However, if you are buying or selling a home, there are state regulated “termite letters” that are required. Those inspections must be handled by a certified termite professional. These termite letters are sometimes referred to as WDIR reports or CL-100 letters. In NC, SC and GA, a certified termite professional must provide an inspection and provide documentation before the sale can be completed. If you plan to buy or sell a home, be sure to contact Terminix and let our experts make sure you have the documentation you need.
If you want more information on termite control tips for homebuyers and home sellers, check out our guide!
Pest Control Services
Beyond termites, your home can be vulnerable to other common pests such as rodents, ants, cockroaches, mosquitoes and bed bugs. Our pest control services offer comprehensive solutions to keep your home pest-free year-round. We emphasize preventative treatments designed to stop infestations before they start, so you can enjoy peace of mind.
Why Pest Inspections Matter
Whether you’re a home buyer, seller, or current homeowner, pest inspections provide peace of mind. Beyond visible damage, pests like cockroaches and rodents often hide in hard-to-detect areas, silently compromising the integrity of your home. Scheduling a professional pest inspection helps:
Protect Your Investment: Ensure your home remains structurally sound and pest-free.
Uncover Hidden Issues: Early detection prevents costly repairs down the line.
Simplify Real Estate Transactions: Avoid last-minute surprises that can delay closing.
Common Pests Found in Homes
During inspections, we frequently identify:
- Termites: Known for causing extensive wood damage.
- Rodents: Responsible for structural damage and potential health risks.
- Bed Bugs: A growing issue, especially in multi-unit housing.
- Ants and Cockroaches: Common pests that can quickly multiply without proper control.
Termite Checklist
Ensuring your home is termite-free requires proactive steps. Use this checklist to stay ahead of potential infestations:
Inspect Your Property Regularly: Look for signs like mud tubes, discarded wings, or hollow-sounding wood.
Control Moisture Levels: Fix leaks and ensure proper drainage to deter termites.
Keep Wood Away from Soil Contact: Store firewood and lumber off the ground and away from your home.
Seal Cracks and Gaps: Close entry points in your foundation and walls.
Schedule Professional Inspections: Regular expert evaluations can identify and address issues early.
Invest in Preventative Treatments: Apply barrier treatments and monitor termite activity year-round.
By following these steps, you can protect your home from the costly damage termites can cause. Acting proactively is key to maintaining a termite-free environment, ensuring your property remains a safe and valuable asset.
Moving soon? Take Terminix termite and pest control with you! Learn more about our Terminix Smoother Mover program.
FOR HOMEBUYERS
Pest Inspection
Buying a home is a major investment, and a professional pest inspection is essential. Our inspections cover termites, wood-destroying insects, and general pests that could cause damage or health concerns. We’ll also help you understand the termite inspection process for sellers and how it impacts your real estate transaction.
FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS
New Homeowner Checklist
Congratulations on your new home! To keep it safe and sound, follow our New Homeowner Checklist that includes routine pest control services for new homeowners, regular termite inspections, and tips for termite prevention. Early preventative treatment can save you thousands in future repairs.
Schedule Routine Pest Control Services: Ensure your home is protected from common pests year-round.
Arrange Regular Termite Inspections: Early detection of termite activity can prevent costly repairs.
Seal Entry Points: Inspect and close gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and your foundation.
Reduce Moisture Levels: Fix leaks, ensure proper ventilation, and prevent standing water around your home.
Maintain Landscaping: Trim plants and keep mulch and woodpiles away from the foundation to reduce pest harborage.
Invest in Preventative Treatments: Proactive measures can save you thousands in potential damages.
Educate Yourself on Local Pests: Learn about common pests in your area and how to spot early warning signs.
FOR HOMESELLERS
Selling a home? A pre-sale termite inspection is typically required to provide a termite letter for home sale—a document that confirms the property is free of termite infestations. These vary by state and are often called WDIR reports or CL-100 letters. We make the termite inspection process for sellers straightforward and stress-free, so you can close with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Pays for Termite Inspection When Buying a House?
Typically, the buyer covers the cost, but this can be negotiated during the home sale process.
Is Pest Inspection Included in a Home Inspection?
Not always. Pest inspections, especially termite inspections, are usually separate and conducted by certified termite inspectors. SC, NC and GA require a termite letter from a certified pest control company in order to complete the sales transaction of the home.
What is a Termite Letter?
A termite letter is an official document from a pest control company certifying that the property has been inspected and is free from termite damage or infestations. They are often referred to as WDIR letters or CL-100 letters.
Are Termite Inspections Mandatory When Buying or Selling a Home?
Requirements vary by state and lender. Homes sold in NC, SC and GA all require termite letters from certified pest control companies.
Can a Termite Infestation Impact the Value of a Home?
Absolutely. Termite damage can reduce home value and delay or prevent a sale if not addressed.
Terminix Is a Name You Can Trust!
With decades of experience and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction, Terminix is your trusted partner in termite control and pest management. Our expert technicians use proven methods and cutting-edge technology to keep your home safe from pests including mosquitoes, fire ants, roaches, fleas and bed bugs! Terminix’s guarantee that “if the pests come back, so do we” will give you the peace of mind you need. Reach out to Terminix Today!
Schedule your free inspection and get the expert advice you need to protect your home—whether you’re buying, selling, or simply maintaining it. If you require a termite letter to sell your home, we can also help with that!