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TERMITES AND REAL ESTATE: THE PROVEN TERMITE SOLUTION FOR BUYERS AND BUYER’S AGENTS

Termite findings are a routine part of Bay Area real estate transactions. Drywood and Subterranean termites are common throughout local homes, which means termite reports often influence negotiations, repairs, credits, lender requirements, and closing timelines.

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Proven Termite Solutions (PTS) does not conduct Wood Destroying Pest and Organism (WDPO) inspections for initial real estate transactions.
 

Instead, PTS provides a no-cost termite inspection service within 24 to 48 hours with or without a WDPO inspection report supplied by the listing agent.
 

This inspection allows our licensed inspectors to independently observe and verify accessible conditions on site, as required by the California Structural Pest Control Board.

PTS supports real estate professionals and clients by offering:

 

  • No cost termite inspections

  • Competitive and transparent estimates

  • Friendly, responsive support during transactions

  • Fast fumigation and soil treatment scheduling

  • Thorough explanation of all scheduled services with buyer

 

If you would like preferred-agent scheduling or have questions about a current transaction, contact our office anytime at (800) 273-7667.

 

Read on for more detailed information about the close connection between termites and Bay Area real estate.

WHAT A TERMITE REAL ESTATE INSPECTION INCLUDES

A real estate termite inspection, also called a Wood Destroying Pest and Organism (WDPO) inspection, evaluates accessible areas for evidence of termites, fungus, dry rot, and moisture conditions that may weaken structural wood.​

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When termite evidence is present, PTS can complete a no-cost termite inspection within 24-48 hours.

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Complete a no-cost limited termite inspection within 24–48 hours 

 

An inspection includes:
 

  • Identifying observed treatment areas

  • Taking measurements

  • Preparing accurate estimates

  • Detail all aspects of recommended treatment

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This approach provides simple, effective treatments options for buyers and buyer’s agents. An existing termite report, when available, can be helpful context, but it is not required for PTS to perform an inspection or recommend treatment.

Real Estate Termite Inspection Illustration

SECTION 1 AND SECTION 2 ITEMS IN ESCROW

Section 1 Items
 

These represent active issues that require correction. Examples include:
 

  • Active Drywood termite activity

  • Subterranean termite tubes

  • Fungus, dry rot, or visible wood decay

  • Moisture-damaged areas that are deteriorating the wood

  • Cellulose debris in subarea

 

Lenders often require clearance for Section 1 items, and repairs are typically completed before closing.

Section 2 Items

 

These reflect potential conditions that could lead to future issues. Examples include:
 

  • Earth to wood contact

  • Plumbing leaks

  • Insufficient ventilation

  • Faulty grading

  • Vegetation touching the structure

 

These items are not always mandatory for closing and are typically negotiated between buyer and seller.

FUMIGATION IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Fumigation is a common recommendation when Drywood termite activity is present. It eliminates colonies hidden deep inside walls, attic beams, and inaccessible framing.

Because fumigation has a specific timeline, real estate agents are encouraged to schedule it as early as possible to avoid delays.

A typical fumigation schedule follows a three day process:

  • Day 1: Tenting and sealing the structure

  • Day 2: Gas exposure and aeration.

  • Day 3: Takedown and re-entry clearance following air quality testing

After fumigation, Proven Termite Solutions posts a re-entry notice confirming the date and time air testing was completed.

PTS schedules fumigation based on findings verified during inspection, and all completed fumigations receive a Notice of Completion for buyers, sellers, or lenders.

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SOIL TREATMENT AFTER REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Subterranean termite activity is typically resolved with a soil injection treatment that creates a long lasting barrier around the structure. This method is completed in one visit, does not require leaving the property and has a fast turnaround.

BENEFITS IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

  • Minimal need to vacate the home

  • Completed in one visit

  • Effective long-term protection

PTS schedules soil treatments based on verified inspection findings, and completed treatments receive a Notice of Completion for escrow documentation.

UNDERSTANDING THE TERMITE REPORT

The termite inspection report generally includes:

  • A written summary of findings

  • Details about each area inspected

  • Evidence of termites, fungus, or moisture issues

  • Diagrams identifying affected areas

  • Required treatments

PREVENTION AFTER YOU CLOSE ESCROW

Once the treatment phase is complete and escrow is closed, homeowners should take steps to prevent future termite activity. While annual inspections are not required, periodic evaluations of attics, subareas, and exterior conditions can help catch issues early.

Homeowners can reduce risks by:

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  • Repairing leaks quickly

  • Improving airflow in attics and subareas

  • Keeping soil away from siding

  • Trimming plants and shrubs away from the structure

  • Periodically checking areas the inspector flagged

These preventive steps protect long term property value and reduce future repair costs. For further prevention tips by season, view our Homeowner Termite Prevention Calendar.

Don’t wait. Schedule your FREE Termite Inspection today.

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