What to Do When Your Dream Home Has a Hidden Termite History

You’ve found the perfect home — great location, open floor plan, and a backyard you can’t stop picturing yourself in. But then you hear it: “The property has a history of termite damage.”

Don’t panic — this doesn’t necessarily mean you should walk away. A hidden termite history doesn’t have to destroy your dream home plans, but it does mean you should take smart, proactive steps to protect your investment.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what to do if your new or prospective home has termite history, how to spot warning signs, and when to call Attack Pest Control for expert inspection and treatment.

Understanding What “Termite History” Really Means

When a home has a termite history, it means there was a previous infestation — not necessarily an active one. Many California homes have dealt with termites at some point, especially older properties or those built with wood framing.

However, what matters most is whether the infestation was properly treated and repaired.

According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), termite damage is found in about 1 in 5 homes nationwide — and in warm, humid climates like Southern California, that number is even higher. So, a termite history isn’t unusual — but ignoring it could lead to costly surprises later.

Step 1: Review the Home’s Termite Inspection Reports

Before buying or renovating, ask for a copy of the home’s termite inspection report (sometimes called a “Wood-Destroying Organism Report”).

This document details:

• The extent of past infestations
  

• Treatment methods used (chemical, bait, fumigation, etc.)
  

• Any damage repairs completed
  

• Notes on areas that may still need monitoring
  

If the report is more than a year old, schedule a new inspection through Attack Pest Control. Our team provides detailed evaluations of both active infestations and structural integrity after treatment.

Step 2: Look for Lingering Signs of Termite Damage

Even if the termites are long gone, the damage they left behind can affect the home’s structure and resale value. Common signs include:

• Hollow or brittle-sounding wood
  

• Sagging floors or walls
  

• Paint that appears bubbled or peeling
  

• Small “pinholes” in drywall
  

• Stains or moisture spots
  

A professional inspection can confirm whether the damage is cosmetic or structural.According to The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), early repairs can prevent future deterioration and keep your home safe for decades.

Step 3: Ask If the Termite Warranty Is Transferable

Many pest control companies offer warranty programs that remain valid even when the home changes owners.

Before finalizing your purchase:

• Ask the seller for the pest control company’s contact info.
  

• Check if the termite warranty or protection plan can transfer to you.
  

• Contact the company to confirm ongoing treatment coverage.
  

If no warranty exists, don’t wait — schedule a termite protection plan with Attack Pest Control.Our team can evaluate, retreat, and set up a monitoring system to ensure your dream home stays protected.

Step 4: Invest in a Fresh Termite Inspection Before Moving In

Even if the home looks perfect, always get a new termite inspection before closing.Termites can go undetected for months or years, and untreated colonies can quickly rebound.

A new inspection by Attack Pest Control includes:

• Checking for active mud tubes and colonies
  

• Assessing foundation and crawl space vulnerabilities
  

• Identifying high-moisture areas that attract termites
  

• Recommending preventive treatments for long-term safety
  

  

Step 5: Evaluate the Cost of Repairs (and Use It in Negotiation)

If the inspection reveals damage, don’t let it derail your purchase — use it strategically.Get an estimate for repairs and negotiate with the seller to cover part or all of the cost.

Common repairs include:

• Replacing damaged beams or flooring
  

• Sealing foundation cracks
  

• Fixing moisture leaks
  

• Applying preventative treatments
  

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends requesting inspection records and repair receipts to ensure termite problems were handled by licensed professionals.

Step 6: Don’t Skip Preventive Treatment

Even after repairs, termites can return — especially if the surrounding soil and wood conditions haven’t been addressed.A preventive treatment plan ensures your home remains protected long after you move in.

Attack Pest Control offers tailored solutions that include:

• Liquid soil treatments for long-term protection
  

• Bait systems to target hidden colonies
  

• Annual monitoring and reinspection
  

Think of it as insurance for your home’s foundation — a small investment compared to potential damage costs.

Step 7: Maintain a Termite-Safe Environment

Your job doesn’t end after treatment. Keeping your dream home termite-free requires a few simple habits:

• Fix plumbing leaks promptly.
  

• Maintain proper yard drainage.
  

• Keep mulch and soil at least 12 inches away from the house.
  

• Store firewood off the ground and away from exterior walls.
  

• Schedule annual termite inspections.
  

You can also read our related article 👉 How Landscaping Mistakes Attract Termites to Your Property to learn how outdoor factors affect termite prevention.

Step 8: Get Expert Advice Before You Buy

If you’re still unsure whether to move forward with the purchase, call in a termite professional for a pre-purchase consultation.A certified inspector can provide objective advice on:

• The risk of reinfestation
  

• Repair quality and prevention options
  

• Long-term protection plans
  

Schedule an expert inspection today with Attack Pest Control — we’ll give you the confidence to make a smart, safe decision about your dream home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I buy a home with termite history?Yes — if it’s been properly treated and repaired. Many California homes have past infestations, but professional inspection ensures safety.

2. How do I know if the previous treatment was effective?Ask for documentation from the pest control company and schedule a fresh inspection for confirmation.

3. Can old termite damage come back?Old damage doesn’t cause new activity, but if untreated areas or moisture problems remain, termites can return.

4. How much does termite repair typically cost?Minor repairs can cost a few hundred dollars, while structural damage may cost several thousand.

5. Is termite treatment required before selling a home in California?It’s not legally required, but lenders often request a termite clearance report before approving a mortgage.

6. What’s the best way to prevent another infestation?Combine moisture control, annual inspections, and professional soil treatments from Attack Pest Control.

7. Can I transfer the seller’s termite warranty to my name?In most cases, yes — as long as you contact the company and request the transfer after closing.

Final Thoughts

Finding out your dream home has a termite history doesn’t mean you should give up on it — it just means you need to be informed and proactive. With the right inspection, treatment, and preventive plan, you can enjoy your home with total peace of mind.

Protect Your Home the Smart Way

Whether you’re buying, selling, or already moved in, Attack Pest Control is here to help.Call 626-915-1111 or visit👉 https://www.attack-pestcontrol.com/

Our experts provide thorough termite inspections, targeted treatments, and long-term prevention plans to safeguard your home — so your dream home stays just that, a dream come true.