A termite contract can be one of the most important documents attached to your house, especially when you sell or refinance. Alabama Extension warns that terms vary and urges homeowners to read the whole contract. Here's what to check before you sign, renew or buy a home with an existing termite bond. See our page on Prattville pest control for services.
Re-treatment only or damage repair?
This is the biggest difference between contracts. A re-treatment-only contract means the company treats again if termites return, but doesn't pay to fix damage. A repair contract also covers damage, within its terms. Repair coverage usually costs more. Ask which you're getting, and get it in writing.
Ten things to check
- which species are covered, including whether Formosan termites are included
- re-treatment only, or damage repair, and any dollar limits
- the treatment method: liquid barrier, baits or both
- how often inspections happen. Alabama Extension recommends at least once a year
- the annual renewal price and whether it can rise
- what you must do, such as fixing moisture problems or keeping mulch away from the foundation
- whether the contract transfers to a buyer if you sell
- the inspection report and map, which Alabama Extension says to keep on file
- the product label, which you can ask to see before treatment
- the company's Alabama license in the wood-destroying organism category
Getting quotes
Alabama Extension suggests getting at least three price quotes and being cautious of unusually low prices, because termite work requires specialized equipment and training. It also suggests checking the Better Business Bureau for complaints. Improper treatment, it notes, can lead to recurring problems and documentation trouble during a sale or mortgage. See the pest control cost guide.
New construction
If you bought a new home in a community like Highland Farms or Kingston Hills, ask the builder about the pretreatment. Alabama Extension says current soil termiticides generally last about 5 years, so the clock on protection starts at construction.
At renewal time
- ask what the latest inspection found and get the report in writing
- ask whether the original treatment is still effective. Alabama Extension says current soil termiticides generally last about 5 years
- check whether the price or terms changed, and whether any new conditions were added
- confirm that moisture problems flagged by the inspector were fixed, since some contracts depend on it
Keep a termite file
Keep the contract, every inspection report and map, product labels and receipts in one folder. It helps if termites return, if you file a claim under a repair contract and when you sell. Alabama Extension specifically recommends keeping the inspection report and map on file.