A home may appear structurally sound and still be falling apart. That’s because termites – wood-boring insects of just one-quarter inch length – attack wood from the inside out, causing serious damage that can go undetected for years.
Homeowners in every state except Alaska are at risk of termite infestation. In fact, each year homeowners pay in excess of $2.5 billion to repair termite damage and control the insects – costs that are generally not covered by homeowners’ insurance. Termites are so damaging because they attack the wood closest to the soil where the home’s load-bearing components are located. If a termite infestation goes on for too long, the loss of structural support can lead to additional deterioration including sagging walls and door frames.
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Some primal termite knocked on wood.
And tasted it and found it good!
And that is why your Cousin May
Fell through the parlor floor today.
– “The Termite,” a poem by Ogden Nash
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In some cases, there are visible indications of termite infestation that can serve as warning signs when you are looking at a prospective home to buy. They include:
- Swarms of winged insects inside or around the home.
- Live termites located in the wood elements.
- Dead termites or their wings around windows, doors, heating vents, bathtubs and sinks.
- Hollow sounding wood in the home’s walls.
- Bulging walls caused by above ground nests of certain termites.
- Sawdust-like powder near the doors, windows, garage.
- Very small holes in the wood inside or outside the house.
- Paint that appears to be buckling on wood surfaces.
- Small mud tubes on inside of outside walls
However, despite these signs and because of the stealth nature of termites, having a professional inspection by a licensed structural pest control inspector is the only way to know for certain if a termite problem exists. In fact, many lenders require a termite inspection before a home sale is finalized.
Inspectors will likely test for termites, as well as other wood-destroying organisms including carpenter ants, carpenter bees and powder post beetles.
Purchasing a home is a large financial investment so don’t take a chance on an inspector who may not be thorough. Ask friends or real estate professionals not connected to the sale for a referral. You can also contact the American Society of Home Inspectors (https://www.ashi.com/) for a local referral.
Make sure that the inspector has current liability coverage, including errors and omissions or malpractice coverage to cover any negligence. Check the inspector’s license and any outstanding complaints through your state licensing agencies or state consumer protection agency. Get a written copy of the finished report.
The standard real estate contract is contingent upon inspections, so if a termite issue is uncovered, you can generally be released from the contract or negotiate with the seller for repairs or a lower sale price.
About Deborah Laemmerhirt
Let me assist you in finding everything you need to know about buying or selling a home! As the preeminent real estate professional in my community, I am dedicated to providing the finest service available while breaking new ground.
Because the real estate industry is becoming more sophisticated and challenging every day, you need a professional that understands the industry and is positioned to stay ahead of the game.
I go the extra mile to help you achieve your goals. That’s why I constantly research the home, market and estate values so your home is priced effectively from day one. I also make sure the public knows your home is for sale by using innovative marketing techniques to attract potential buyers.
As an Internet-savvy real estate representative in Connecticut, I’ve had the opportunity to help many home buyers find their ideal homes and many sellers obtain top dollar for their homes. Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions that most people ever undertake, so I will help you through every step of the process. My goal is to make your home selling or buying experience as easy and enjoyable as possible.
My services include:
Explaining the home selling and buying process thoroughly
Diligently selecting homes that meets your criteria
Pricing your home correctly and implementing a unique yet proven marketing plan
Negotiating on your behalf
Tracking the closing process to ensure a smooth transaction
I welcome the opportunity to address any questions you might have about buying, selling or current market conditions. Please call or e-mail me any time, and I will be happy to discuss your next steps in the buying or selling process.
I specialize in both Residential and Commercial Properties.
I also head a Real Estate Group to provide you with expert service and support.
Areas of Expertise
Making transitions in your life is challenging. You may be moving from out of town, a different state, internationally or just next door! Regardless of the distance I am prepared to respond to your unique needs.If you are a BUYER looking to downsize, up-size, want a new construction, desire a condominium, to invest, even if this is your first home, I will design a unique plan to fulfill your needs in a reasonable time frame, with the best negotiated price and the least amount of inconvenience.For my Home Sellers, I have an innovative marketing plan that will leave nothing to chance. Just call, and I would be happy to share the DIFFERENT and SUCCESSFUL TOOLS I utilize on each of my listings.
I have lived in Connecticut for over 35 years. I practice Real Estate in Fairfield County, New Haven County and Litchfield County. This includes, but is not limited to Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Oxford, Ridgefield, Redding, Roxbury, Sherman, Southbury, Warren, Washington, Westport and Wilton.
