*Disclaimer* – The info below is applicable to the State of Georgia. Info and requirements can vary greatly from state to state. Please research the requirements in your individual state or situation. This is only meant to be a guide. For this same reason, I am remaining somewhat vague with my answers.
What is a termite letter?
Official Georgia Wood Infestation Inspection Report. The name will obviously differ from state to state, as the Georgia report is only valid for Georgia.
The termite letter is really more of a report than a letter. It is a report compiled by a licensed pest control / termite company that states that a licensed technician has inspected the home for termites and other wood destroying organisms. It then presents the findings and any conducive conditions.
Common names for a termite letter:
Termite letter, termite clearance letter, Official Georgia Wood Infestation Inspection Report, NPMA-33. For the purpose of this blog, I’ll just refer to it as a termite letter.
When do I need a termite letter?
Termite letters are often required when buying / selling or refinancing a home.
Why do I need a termite letter?
If you are buying or selling a home, or refinancing, the lender will more often than not require you to get a termite letter. Before the lender will loan you a bunch of money on a house, they want the piece of mind of having a licensed termite company inspect the home so they (the lender) knows that they are not giving you a loan on something that is infested with termites, and is about to fall apart. There have been situations in which new homeowners have just walked away from such homes, leaving the bank with a worthless property.
Is the buyer or the seller responsible for the termite letter?
We have completed termite letters for both, buyers and sellers. It seems to vary from lender to lender, and also depends on what type of loan it is.
What kind of protection does a termite letter give me?
If you receive a “clear” termite letter, it is essentially a 90-day letter that states that the home does not appear to have any active termites. If termites are found within the 90 days, the termite company is responsible for performing an adequate treatment in the home at no cost to the homeowner.
How much does a termite letter cost?
I have seen the cost of a termite letter vary from about $40 up to around $150. As long as the customer requests the report at the same time as the termite treatment is being performed, we will do the termite letter at no additional charge.
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