What happens when your dream house has a termite problem? These pests can be easy to overlook when searching for a new residence, but they can cause thousands of dollars in property damage. Before you buy a house that may have an infestation, use the following guide to learn more about these insects and what you can do about them.

How to Identify Termite Damage

When conducting a walk-through of a residence, look for telltale signs of an infestation, such as hollowed walls and floors. These insects eat the cellulose in wood, which creates grooves that can turn into structural damage over time. You may also find mud tubes the size of pencils outside where the ground and the building meet. They’re caused by subterranean termites that burrow underground and come to the surface for food and air. Another sign of an infestation is drywood droppings. This species nests inside the wood and uses tunnels to remove fecal matter from their home. The droppings resemble coffee grounds or sawdust.

Why Schedule an Inspection Before Buying a House

You can overlook the presence of an infestation on a property even after a careful examination because the insects are silent and often stay out of sight. However, a pest control specialist knows how to identify infestations before they lead to expensive structural repairs. The professional thoroughly examines the house from top to bottom and can find indications you might miss. So, before you close on your dream house, hire an exterminator for an inspection.

How to Incorporate Treatment Into Negotiations

If a house has a minor termite problem, it may still be worth purchasing. Typically, the sellers are the ones who pay for both inspections and treatments. Once the inspector assesses the house’s insect problem and the extent of the damage, they estimate a price for repairs and treatment. The homeowners may decide to fix the issue themselves or leave it up to the buyer. If they expect the buyers to address the problem, the price of the home should drop to accommodate the repair expenses.

If you’re buying or selling a home and need treatment for an infestation, count on the team at Collins Exterminating to get the job done. For almost 60 years, this pest control company has helped clients throughout Bolivar, MO, and the surrounding areas rid their homes of unwanted insects. Their certified exterminators can handle everything from termites to bedbugs, and they also offer a five-year pest-free guarantee on all of their work. To learn more or to schedule service, call (417) 326-2124 or visit them online today.