Are you planning to buy a home? If so, the last thing that may be on your mind is pest control.
However, pest control companies are vital to the home-buying process because they can expose underlying infestations. In the worst cases, new homes may have massive termite issues.
Your home may also contain mice and rodents that can spread disease. You should get an inspection regardless of the home’s age. To be on the safe side, request an inspection regardless of the season.
This article will highlight the importance of a pest control plan for new homeowners. Let’s explore.
Mandatory Inspections
In some cases, mortgage lenders require pest control inspections on a new home. Lenders want to know if the home contains termites or other wood-destroying insects.
Lenders aren’t as concerned with other pests, such as mice or cockroaches. Additionally, many lenders don’t require a pest control inspection. If the seller leaves the home vacant for a long period, pests can enter unabated.
Older Homes
Pest issues in older homes tend to occur as the housing material degrades. Further, older houses are more likely to contain termites, or the home may have a history of termite damage.
Termites can enter when the foundation and drywall have undergone significant wear over the years. Moreover, termite infestations can occur as the home naturally settles. Besides termites, other pests can enter the home in the following ways:
- Plumbing may be an issue if the pipes are old, allowing rodents to enter.
- Older roofs tend to contain holes and gaps that allow bats, squirrels, or mice to enter.
If your mortgage lender doesn’t require a pest inspection for an older home, request an inspection. Independent companies like ABIS conduct pre-purchase inspections and will provide a full report.
Without a pre-purchase inspection, you could end up with a pricey pest control bill. If the home contains termites, for example, you could pay anywhere from $200 to $900.
Newer Homes
Whereas termites are more common in older homes, rodents are common in newer homes. A new house is typically constructed in the 1990s or later.
New homes contain gaps and crevices that allow vermin to enter. Many builders take shortcuts when building new homes, leaving your home vulnerable to outside pests.
- Example: For attached garages, builders usually leave gaps between the sheetrock and the foundation. This area can be an ideal entryway for mice and insects.
Further, many builders construct new homes near wooded areas, which are traditional habitats for rodents. When their habitat disappears, rodents use the new homes as prime nesting grounds.
Also, be aware of feral cats or dogs that may live in the woods. These animals can leave behind ticks and fleas that can enter your home with ease.
Additionally, many materials for new homes aren’t stored properly. If contractors store the wood in a damp environment, moisture can accumulate in the wood, allowing insects to nest within.
Signs of a Pest Infestation In Your New Home
Many new homeowners don’t notice small issues that could indicate a pest control problem. You should consider a pest control company if:
- You have cracks anywhere in your home: You may see cracks in your drywall, foundation, windows, or doors. This is a common issue in older homes, especially as the foundation degrades. Also, drywall cracking is a common problem in newer homes if the lumber is fresh-cut and contains a high amount of moisture.
- You notice a damp smell in the home: A damp smell indicates high moisture, which is a prime haven for insects. Moisture allows mold and mildew to fester. Insects feed on mold and other forms of matter within the wood.
- You have woodpiles in the backyard: The previous owner may have left behind woodpiles or other debris. These are nesting havens for mice and other pests. Also, be aware of excess shrubbery allowing rodents to dwell undetected.
Remove outside debris when you move into your new home. Plus, you should have excess tree limbs removed around your home.
Branches allow rodents to access your roof. If you find cracks in your walls or baseboards, ask a pest control rep about sealing the home. Sealing will keep insects out while preventing water breaches.
Water not only damages your home but also attracts insects and rodents. A sealing plan can also protect your home during the winter season.
Seasonal Pest Control
Pest control companies are useful regardless of the season. For example, the winter months cause rodents to seek shelter from the cold. Many insects mate during the spring season. Bees and wasps usually awaken during the spring, and ants may scurry indoors to escape rainfall.
Additionally, ants flourish heavily during the spring and early fall because they thrive in warm soil. However, the intense heat of the summer slows down their numbers.
That said, the heat will cause ants and other pests to move indoors. Other summer pests that should be on your radar pests include ticks, cockroaches, chiggers, bagworms, and beetles.
The Importance of a Pest Control Plan
Whether you’re purchasing an old or new home, pests can invade your home using the slightest openings. However, a pre-purchase pest control inspection can expose all types of pests, ranging from mice to roaches.
An active pest control plan is also paramount if you live in wooded areas. Woods attract moisture and allow insects to thrive.
Interested in reading more? Read more on our blog to gain insight into other topics.