Why Termite Inspections Matter

There are very good reasons why termite inspections are strongly encouraged as part of a real estate transaction in many parts of the country, and why including regular termite treatments and inspections is sound preventive maintenance.  Termites destroy wood, and thus, homes.  A friend from Bethesda recently shared this photo with me and said I could share it with my blog readers.  Her story goes like this.

On weekends and in nice weather, her family was typically away from their primary residence.  Despite living in their home for over 30 years, they never once observed any telltale swarms of emerging termites.  Last year, they were horrified to learn that the entire back of their home, all three levels (basement plus two stories above ground) was destroyed by termites. Fortunately the insects had not yet reached the attic and the trusses of their roof.

The board on the left is a typical 2x4 board. On the right is what the wood looked like after termites had feasted on it. She said it was like paperboard, crumbling in her hands.  Contractors had to spend months removing the drywall, insulation, studs, electrical and plumbing from the back of their home and replace everything including the tiles in their kitchen. They were able to salvage their kitchen cabinets and some other appliances.  The cost was over $70,000.

So don't waive your right to a termite inspection prior to purchasing a new home and don't overlook regular treatments and monitoring for termites in your existing home.