Who is Responsible for Termites in Your Home?
Termites are insidious invaders of your home or business. Whether you are a homebuyer, renter or home seller, it would benefit you to know who is responsible for termite infestations.
How Termite Infestations Impact Homeowners
Termites not only devour wood they also leave homeowners and tenants with expensive, anxiety-ridden and sometimes dangerous scenarios. And what a problem it can be in various homeownership situations.
1. Buying a Resale Property
If you are buying a resale, the house may already have a termite problem that you might not be aware of. Here’s how it can affect you:
Undisclosed Infestations or Damage
Sellers may not know about a former or current termite problem or they don’t disclose it. Always request a termite inspection report or any evidence of past treatments.Inadequate or Poor-Quality Treatments
Many homes may have been "treated" with inferior termite treatments, providing little or no long term protection. The infestation may persist or recur soon after purchase if there's not proper pest control.Lack of Awareness
A lot of home owners do not even know what the initial signs of a termite problem are. Termites are frequently confused for ants, so they can get untreated for years.
Your Responsibility as a New Owner
Do not be complacent just because a house appears to be taken care of, complete a proper termite examination before agreeing on a sale. The tropical climate, wooden fittings and high humidity in Perth leave homes particularly susceptible to termites.
Tips for Resale Buyers:
Check the Property’s Treatment History
Request a copy of previous termite treatments, if any. Learn how it was done and how long ago.Schedule a Professional Termite Inspection
Have the property checked by a licensed pest control technician before you move in. This “fix” is proactive and can save you from significant structural damage and expensive repairs.Know the Lifespan of Pre-Construction Treatments
Houses that were treated for anti-termite before construction, are typically protected for 10 years but regular maintenance is always required.
Renting Out a Property
If you’re a landlord, termite prevention is more than just about protecting your investment — it’s also about keeping your tenants safe and comfortable.
Landlord Responsibilities:
Health & Safety
Termites could weaken floors, walls and ceilings, posing a risk to occupants. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to maintain safe living conditions.Regular Inspections & Treatment
Make sure to have year’s termite inspections included in your maintenance schedule especially where you are likely to have garden areas, wood panelling, timber fences, and you have a past history with the pests.
Tenant Considerations:
Ensure the Home is Safe
If you’re renting a property especially if you have children or elderly in the family — demand a pest inspection before you sign a lease.Report Issues Immediately
Pay attention to signs like mud tubes, wood dust or a hollow wall. Tell the landlord right away so that the problem doesn't get worse.
Final Thoughts
Additional concern for termites in Perth because it's hot and humid environment and wood is widely used. If you are a buyer, seller, landlord or tenant, keeping informed and proactive is what’s going to keep your property protected.
Shield Termite Treatment Maylands offers all pest control services in Maylands and surroundings. Feel free to contact us at (08) 6186 7426 or visit our website:
