Termite Bonds

Georgia is one of the highest-risk states for termite infestation due to its warm climate and high annual rainfall. Because of this risk, homeowners may want to acquire a termite bond when they buy or sell their homes. While not required by law, home lenders may require them as a condition for a loan.

But what is a termite bond, what does it do, and when should you get one? Read on for valuable insight from the Inspect-All Pest Services team.

What is a Termite Bond?

A termite bond is essentially a warranty between you and a termite extermination company, a little like a maintenance contract. It typically includes three important parts:

• An agreement for termite inspections as long as the contract lasts (typically a couple of years). These inspections can happen annually, quarterly, or on an agreed-upon schedule.
• An agreement to provide treatment and control if termites are discovered. A bond usually covers these services, so the homeowner doesn’t have to pay any extra. Many bonds include upfront service, before inspections, to take care of termite issues that were just discovered.
• Repair of damages or retreatment only. An agreement should specify if the service provider will retreat and repair any damage from a subsequent infestation or just retreat the structure without providing damage repairs. Not all homes qualify for a Repair Bond, so it is recommended that you inquire about the eligibility and costs associated.

Note: A bond is different from a “termite letter,” which is a statement that a house is or is not found free of termites upon inspection. Both are good to have, though; a termite letter certifies that a licensed home inspector has found the home free of termite infestation. This will make your home easier to sell – it assures potential buyers that they shouldn’t have to deal with an infestation while they’re moving in.

What Are Termite Bonds Used For?

Termite bonds are used to guarantee that the pest control company will keep an eye on your home and make sure that a new infestation doesn’t creep up on you. If you have a termite infestation, you may worry that termites will return, even after successful control services. A termite bond also delivers peace of mind; if you do end up with a termite problem, you’re covered!

Termite bonds serve an important purpose when buying or selling a home. If a home inspector finds a termite problem or a high likelihood of termites, buyers will often only agree to purchase the house if the owners take out a termite bond first. Likewise, lenders may not be willing to provide a mortgage for at-risk homes without a bond. Certain loans, like FHA and VA mortgages, specifically require pest inspections, so termite bonds can help homebuyers qualify for those lower-cost loans as well.

Who Provides Termite Bonds?

Only certified pest control companies can provide a termite bond. Some home inspectors work with eligible pest control companies and can connect homeowners or homebuyers with a reputable termite exterminator.

When Do I Need One?

You’ll need a bond if you are thinking about selling your home, or if you recently found a termite infestation and are worried about it returning. We don’t suggest waiting until a home inspection to determine whether you need a termite bond. A sudden termite discovery could delay seller plans at a crucial time during the transaction.

How Much Do They Cost?

Termite bond costs are determined by how long the bond lasts, what services are included, and additional factors – such as the size of the home and its location. The important thing to remember is that a termite bond will always cost less than a full-blown termite infestation.

Is There Anything Else I Should Know?

Termite bonds are either transferable or nontransferable. A transferable bond can be transferred to a new homeowner upon the sale of a home. As you might imagine, it’s important to get a transferable bond whenever possible.

We’ll Be Your Experts in Termite Bonds

Having a termite bond can ensure ongoing, everlasting protection from termites. Inspect-All Pest Services works with homeowners in Atlanta, GA to reduce termites through these agreements. Home-related warranties can get confusing, but getting a termite bond through us is simple! We’ll talk you through the process and answer any pressing questions you have.

Contact us today for a free quote. Let us help you achieve peace of mind and enjoy a termite-free home.