Whether you own a rental property or your own home, discovering termites can be a stressful time for any property owner. In places like Alabama, where termites run rampant for a large portion of the year, there is plenty of time for an infestation to cause significant damage that is expensive to repair.
Termite bonds
Generally speaking, a termite bond is a contract between a pest control company and a homeowner. This contract requires the company to perform inspections for signs of termites or a termite infestation on the property, and it then remediates any damage that occurs as a direct result of the termites. It is important to note that this bond only covers damage directly resulting from termites. So if water damage allowed the termites access, the pest control company may refuse to cover the repairs and treatment.
There are also pest control companies that do not abide by the terms of their contracts, which can leave homeowners in a difficult position. Having already paid for termite control, the unexpected expense of potentially extensive repairs on top of that can be extremely stressful. The actual damage from termites is just one aspect of the problem as an infestation can cause health problems for those with asthma or similar conditions.
What can you do?
A termite bond or pest control agreement is a legal contract. A knowledgeable attorney can advise you on your rights under the contract and what recourse you may have. In some cases, a successful lawsuit could force the pest control company to treat the problem, make repairs, and even award compensation to the property owner for his or her emotional suffering and stress.
While most companies operate with the best intentions, that is not always the case. As a property owner, you need to protect your investment, and termites and other wood-destroying insects can wreak havoc on wood-framed structures. Contacting an attorney with experience in fighting pest control companies can provide you with the best chance to recoup your losses or simply resolve the problem.