Termite inspection is often a forgotten expense buyers face and neglect on a regular basis. Just recently I noticed some termites in my own bathroom sink! They had come out of the wall behind my mirror and fell into the sink. I later found out that they were coming in through the plumbing. It’s a miracle I found them before they could do more damage. The home had a previous inspection before we bought it and there were no termites at the time. However, it did have previous treatments for termites before the inspection.

My pest control tech explained to me that there was a recent spike in activity due to the rain we just had. Here in San Antonio we have Subterranean termites. Subterranean termites will start swarming in the spring usually, but when in a drought you are more likely to see them after some much needed rain comes in, so keep your eyes open. They can come through plumbing space in the slab or shifting cracks.

Don’t let termites go unchecked. An inspection for a buyer can start around $100. Extreme damage can cost thousands. Don’t be affraid to ask for a discount or shop arround. If you own your home many pest control experts will give you a free inspection and only charge for the treatment. Treatment can be around $350 depending on what needs to be done and what type of home you have. After each termite inspection or treatment, pest control will leave a sticker under the kitchen sink (it’s the law). Also termite reports, if available, will be listed on a seller’s disclosure notice when a house is listed for sale. This information will serve you in looking for future termite activity in problem areas.

For detailed pictures and descriptions of termites click here.

Krishna Perkins ABR, SFR

Covenant Partners
http://www.sahomelocator.com