Just like title searches and appraisals are important during the home buying process, termite inspections also help you to avoid a disaster after closing on a home. If you arrange for a termite inspection, here is what you need to know.

Termite Inspection 101
In most cases, your mortgage company will require you to have a termite inspection before closing on your loan, but even if they don’t, checking for termites is a smart move for buyers. Termites are active in every state except Alaska, and they are responsible for more than $50 billion in damage each year. Buyers pay for the cost of termite inspection, but it is a worthwhile expense when you are investing in a new home. You won’t necessarily be able to see the signs of a termite problem, so an inspection by an expert is the only way to know for certain that a property is free from termites before closing.

Signs of Termites
Termite inspectors look for evidence of termites and other organisms that destroy wood, and if they see any signs of a problem, they determine if the damage is the result of an active infestation or that has occurred in the past. They will also look for areas around the house that could attract termites, such as areas with moisture problems or where the wood comes into contact with the ground.

Dealing with Termite Issues
If the inspector finds a past infestation that is no longer active, he or she can ensure that all necessary repairs have been made and give you a written guarantee of such. For an active infestation, your inspector can tell you if the issue is minor and can be adequately treated at the seller’s expense, or if you should move on from purchasing the property.

At CoreTitle, we’re committed to making sure no surprises await you after closing, with assistance with mortgages, settlements and thorough title searches. Get the help you need today by calling (856) 316-4005 for our offices in South Jersey; (267) 428-3821 for our team in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; (954) 434-1445 for our Ft. Lauderdale, Florida office; (239) 970-4200 for our Naples, FL office,  (305) 357 -3989 for our Miami, Florida office  or (734) 823-3356 for our Northville, MI office.