Once you’ve finally completed a mortgage application and you’ve found the right house, the last thing you want is to move into a pest control nightmare. While there will always be little surprises with any new home, you probably want to avoid major complications like a termite infestation. So if you’re in the market for a new place this year, we recommend you take a second look for these signs of a potential problem. And, if you proceed with a purchase, these tips can give you some ideas for your first projects around the home.

First, examine the structure thoroughly for these signs of an active termite infestation:

  • Mud tubes on the exterior
  • Wood that is darkening or looks “blistered”
  • Small piles of what appears to be sawdust
  • Soft wood that sounds hollow when you tap on it
  • Discarded wings near doorways and windows

Seek a professional pest control company for guidance before proceeding with a home purchase. If an active infestation is present, we can advise you on how to proceed (possibly with a termite bond that will treat the problem now, plus cover the home after the purchase is completed).

If you don’t find signs of a termite infestation, keep in mind that you should still take steps to prevent a problem from occurring in your new home. Some of your first projects as a homeowner might involve…

Move stacks of firewood away from the home. These can become a nesting site for termites, who will later move into your home.

Remove rotting tree stumps or diseased trees. You probably want to renovate the yard and improve its appearance anyway. Removing potential nesting sites should be your first move.

Trim branches away from the home. Tree branches should never touch the structure of your house, for many reasons. Ditto for piles of leaf debris.

Limit your use of mulch. Mulch certainly has its place in the garden, but avoid placing it within 15 inches of your home’s foundation since it can provide a source of food for termites.

Check and repair gutters. Proper water flow is important for many reasons. In the case of termites, pooling water provides moisture which attracts the pests.

And of course, even if you don’t spot obvious signs of termites, an annual inspection is the best way to catch any problems early in their development. Call us to schedule a termite check-up, and we’ll help you protect your home and investment.