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Last Modified on Jun 22, 2025
While finding termites is never easy, it can be an amazing feeling to know that your home is finally free of an infestation after proper treatment. However, even though the pests are gone, you’re left to deal with the aftermath of their destruction. This leaves many homeowners wondering if old termite damage could be a problem and what they can do to fix it.
Understanding what to do when you have a termite infestation and how to care for your property once it’s gone is critical. At Campbell Law, P.C., we’re here to help you through it.
The Significance of Old Termite Damage
Termite damage is a significant issue across the United States. Termites damage around 600,000 homes every year around the country, causing property owners to spend nearly $5 billion on treatments and damage repair.
Termite destruction does not magically disappear just because the visible pests have been exterminated. Termites ingest wood starting from its interior, which results in serious damage to structural components like support beams and floor joists. The final outcome results in structural damage that remains hidden from surface-level observation but is absolutely detrimental. Old damage can include:
- Wooden beams that are hollowed out
- Cosmetic damage, especially to the walls and ceilings
- Moisture issues, which invite termites
Unfortunately, these issues can’t be resolved with a simple cosmetic procedure. You may need professional restoration work or even structural repairs.
Who Is Liable for Termite Damage?
As the property owner, you are likely responsible for fixing the damage a termite infestation caused. However, if you can prove that a third party was responsible for the infestation or its related damages, you may be able to file a legal claim that helps you recover damages. Negligent pest control providers, termite inspectors, and home inspectors are often held liable when termite damage causes destruction.
For example, if a termite inspector missed clear signs of damage or a seller was aware of a termite infestation but didn’t disclose it, they may be held liable by the current property owner.
How Old Termite Damage Affects Your Home’s Value
A beautiful kitchen remodel cannot erase the doubts that termite damage creates in potential buyers. In many markets, homes with a history of infestation or untreated damage can lose staggering amounts of their value. Lenders may also be reluctant to finance homes with a record of pest activity, especially if structural integrity is questionable. In competitive real estate environments, even a small history of termites can be a deal-breaker.
It is critical to keep records of every treatment applied to your property and each inspection and repair that is conducted. If you ever need to disclose past termite issues, being able to demonstrate that the problem was resolved professionally and completely is critical.
What to Do If You’ve Already Purchased a Damaged Home
Finding termite damage after closing on a home can be a frustrating process. You should begin by assembling all of the paperwork associated with the purchase of the home. The documents you need include your home inspection report, termite bond if available, seller disclosures, and pest control treatment records.
The next step is to hire a termite damage lawyer. If the seller or inspector had actual knowledge of the damage and failed to disclose it, then you may be able to file a termite damage claim for the cost of repairs or the loss of value to your property. Many termite damage claims are based on breach of contract, fraud, or professional negligence.
Termite Tom & Campbell Law Pc
You’re In Good Hands
We focus on termite cases every single day. Proven Experience Matters.
Hire a Termite Lawyer Who Can Help
Campbell Law, P.C., exclusively handles termite claims. Our firm is run by “Termite Tom,” a seasoned litigation attorney with over two decades of experience. Our team has recovered more than $300 million for clients through over 19,000 termite damage claims. We represent homeowners, renters, and home buyers who have been harmed by negligent pest control companies and home inspectors.
If your home is infested with termites or you have hidden structural damage, we are here to help. Our termite litigation attorneys can fight for your rights and hold the responsible companies accountable for their actions.
FAQs
What Should You Do If You Find Termite Damage Without Termites?
The presence of damage without live termites shows that an infestation may have been treated, and the damage they left remains. Old damage can still weaken the structural integrity of your home and decrease property values, which is why it’s crucial to repair it quickly. A forensic inspection can confirm if termite activity is over or ongoing.
Can You Buy a House With Old Termite Damage?
While you can buy a house with old termite damage, you should do so with caution. You will need to have a licensed inspector go over the home carefully to make sure it is structurally sound. You will also want to ensure you get paperwork detailing any previous treatments or repairs. If you later find out that damage was covered up or misrepresented, you can file a claim with the help of a termite damage attorney to seek financial compensation.
Can You Live in a House With Termite Damage?
Whether or not you can remain in a home with termite damage depends on the severity of the damage they’ve caused. If the damage is only cosmetic, it will likely not affect the overall safety of your home. However, if there is severe damage to key structural elements of your home, it’s likely that you will need to do major repairs before your home is safe to live in again. You should have a professional assess the severity of the termite damage that occurred.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix Termite Damage?
Unaddressed termite damage endangers the structural integrity of your home while creating unsafe living conditions and lowering property value. Persistent damages that remain unaddressed will eventually cause structural pieces to collapse. It may also affect future insurance claims or the sale of your home. Homeowners may hire a termite damage lawyer if negligence or a breached bond caused the problem.
Contact Termite Tom Today
If you have old termite damage, your entire investment could be at risk. Termite Tom can help you hold responsible parties accountable for termite damage. Contact us today for more information.
