The Importance of a Termite Inspection When Purchasing a Home

Termites season in Texas will generally fall between February or March and can be active year-round.  The early spring tends to be the time when a new colony of termite swarmers are getting established.  Now that we are at that time of the year, and the temperatures are creeping up, here are some things to consider when you are purchasing a home.

1. Certain Types of Mortgage Loans Require it

FHA and VA loans require a termite inspection before your mortgage company will approve your home loan. Depending on that type of loan will be contingent on whether there is an active infestation of termites or not.  Finding out if the loan requires a termite inspection is something your real estate agent and mortgage company will verify.  In fact, determining whether or not you want a termite inspection should not be in question.  After all, your home is the largest investment you will ever make, so why take chances?

2. Conducive Conditions of the Property

Termites live in the soil and have to maintain that soil contact in order to survive.  They will either build a mud shelter tube up the side of the concrete foundation or enter through a tiny crack in the foundation if that crack extends to the soil line.  If the soil line is above the foundation or the footing is too low, termites will not be detectable until there is damage on the inside of the house.  Certain other conditions around the home such as moisture, heavy mulch, and dense vegetation against the foundation will also be factors.

3. Termite Damage Is Costly

Termites cause over $5.5 billion in property damage each year in North America.  That’s a lot of money.  Now whether or not a house has signs of termites does not have to be a deal breaker.  There’s a difference between a previous infestation that has already been dealt with and a current one.  Just ask your real estate agent about the best course of action when this is determined.  The seller should even have documentation on what that course of action was.

There is no reason to worry about whether or not this inspection takes place.  That’s because Diamond Head Inspection Services, LLC will provide the termite inspection for FREE with every home inspection.  Let us give you peace of mind knowing the termite inspection is taken care of.  Call us today at (737)600-2949 or go on the website at www.diamondheadinspectionservices.com.  Schedule your inspection today!