When Sarah and Mark purchased their dream home in a humid coastal region, they skipped the optional termite inspection, trusting that the home’s recently remodeled interior meant it was in excellent condition. Six months later, they discovered mud tubes along their foundation and hollow-sounding baseboards in the living room.

The Problem

The previous owners had painted over termite damage without repairing it. Subterranean termites had entered through small cracks in the foundation, thriving in the moisture-rich environment.

Resolution

• Sarah and Mark hired a pest control professional to treat the infestation with liquid termiticide.

• They replaced the damaged baseboards and sealed all foundation cracks.

• Total cost: $7,500 for treatment and repairs.

Lesson Learned

“Never skip a termite inspection, no matter how perfect the home looks. We learned the hard way that termites don’t care about aesthetics.”

• Always schedule a professional termite inspection before buying a home, even if it’s not required.

• Inspect the foundation for cracks and signs of mud tubes.

• Be cautious of recently painted or remodeled homes—hidden damage could lurk beneath the surface.

The Situation

Lisa, a first-time homebuyer in a dry, warm climate, purchased a mid-century home furnished with vintage wooden furniture included in the sale. A year later, she noticed piles of what looked like sawdust near one of the cabinets. An inspection revealed a drywood termite infestation originating from the furniture.

The Problem

The vintage furniture had been infested before the sale, and the termites had begun spreading to other wooden structures in the home.

Resolution

• Lisa had the home fumigated and the infested furniture professionally treated.

• She also applied borate treatments to all exposed wood in the house.

• Total cost: $3,200 for fumigation and furniture restoration.

Lesson Learned

“I didn’t realize termites could travel in furniture. If I’d known, I would’ve inspected the furniture before moving in.”

Tips for Homebuyers

• Inspect all wooden furniture included in the sale for signs of termites, such as frass or kick-out holes.

• Be especially cautious with second-hand or vintage wood items.

• If in doubt, treat the furniture with a professional insecticide before bringing it into the home.

The Situation

Tom and Rachel loved the lush landscaping around their new home in a suburban neighborhood. However, within a year, they discovered termite activity in their attached garage. Mulch and overgrown plants had created a direct pathway for subterranean termites to reach the home.

The Problem

The couple had overlooked the risks associated with landscaping too close to the foundation. Excessive moisture from mulch and dense vegetation had attracted termites to the area.

Resolution

• They removed the mulch and trimmed back plants near the foundation.

• A pest control company installed bait stations around the property.

• Total cost: $1,500 for landscaping adjustments and bait station installation.

Lesson Learned

“We never thought our beautiful garden could invite termites. Now, we keep plants and mulch far away from the house.”

Tips for Homebuyers

• Maintain a gap of at least 12–18 inches between landscaping and the foundation.

• Use termite-resistant alternatives to mulch, such as gravel or rubber mulch.

• Ensure proper drainage to avoid moisture buildup near the foundation.

What Homebuyers Wish They Had Known

1. Inspections Are Essential: Skipping a termite inspection can lead to costly surprises.

2. Furniture Can Be a Trojan Horse: Drywood termites often travel in infested wood items.

3. Landscaping Matters: Mulch, plants, and poor drainage can attract termites.

• Overlooking warning signs like small holes, frass, or warped wood.

• Assuming that remodeled or newer homes are termite-free.

• Ignoring preventive measures such as sealing cracks and maintaining proper landscaping.

• Hire Professionals: Schedule termite inspections with licensed experts before buying a home.

• Stay Informed: Learn the signs of termite activity and conduct routine inspections.

• Prevent Vulnerabilities: Focus on moisture control, landscaping adjustments, and regular maintenance.

These real-life case studies highlight the importance of proactive measures to protect your home from termites. Whether it’s inspecting the foundation, treating furniture, or adjusting landscaping, small efforts can save you thousands in repair costs. By learning from others’ experiences, homebuyers can take steps to avoid the stress and expense of dealing with termite infestations.