Most real estate offers require an inspection by a
licensed exterminator to determine that the house doesn't have termites or other
wood boring insects. The inspector will look for two things in deciding whether
or not to pass a house--an active infestation and evidence of a past
infestation.
If your house does not pass the termite inspection, get a list of
qualified exterminators from your Realtor. Find out the treatment options they
offer and their charges for the service. Exterminators are usually quite
competitive. If your home was treated for a past infestation, the company which
performed the extermination may be willing to re-certify your home without a
second treatment. Arrange for the termite inspection as early as possible, so
you will have time to determine the best way to get rid of them, if they are
found.
