Termites in the Lexington KY area and How To Prevent Them From Showing Up

Every year termites are responsible for over $5 billion in property damages in the United States according to the National Pest Management Foundation. That is more of a threat to homes than fire, flood or wind. But many homeowners know very little about the danger these little bugs can pose to their property.

Termites really are the silent killer because you don’t notice the damage done until it is so extensive. Termites may take up residence in a home for years – even decades- eating way at the structure from the inside out. On average a subterranean termite colony can consume a two-by-four- per year.

Termites need just a small crack in the foundation to enter the home. That crack can be as thin as a business card. Open window vents and roof joints are also popular entry points. Usually older homes are more at risk, but just because a new home had a termite pre-treat at construction doesn’t mean it is out of the woods either. If a builder did not do the treatment correctly, the termites can show up in less than 5 years. Keep in mind, Kentucky is in the south and the warm climates in the South are prime spots for termites.

When looking at homes, a buyer may want to inquire if the seller has yearly termite treatments does to the property. Sellers would also serve themselves well by having regular inspections done with a termite specialist. When I first begin my real estate career nearly a decade ago, it seemed like all the lenders required a termite inspection to be conducted on the home the buyer was purchasing. However, it seems basically no lenders require that today. Even if your lender doesn’t require it, I still ensure my buyers understand the importance of this inspection and stress the importance of having this done prior to closing. In the Lexington KY real estate market, sellers are usually required to treat the home/premises if active termites are discovered.

Here are some ways to prevent Termites:

1. Keep moisture out, use gutters/downspouts to divert water away from the home’s foundation.
2. All firewood, mulch and wood chips should be stored away from the home
3. Shrubs, vines and plants shouldn’t be planted too close to the home
4. Ventilate crawl spaces to reduce humidity
5. Close up gaps and cracks in attic vents, roof eaves and window joints
6. Remove old tree stumps and roots near the home

About the Author: Kim Soper is a lifelong Lexington KY resident and Co-Founder of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Cypress. She has over 17 years experience selling real estate all over Lexington KY and the Central KY areas.  Kim is the manager/Realtor of ExploreLexingtonKY.com - Home to Your Best Source for Lexington KY Real Estate!