What is a termite warranty?
A termite warranty is a warranty given to an individual for a specific property by a termite company. It is typically only put in place on a property that has recently been treated by the termite company issuing the warranty. Some people will also refer to the warranty as a termite bond.
What are the different types of warranties?
There are 2 types of warranties in our state (Georgia). The first type of warranty / bond is a retreat only warranty. The second type of warranty is a retreat & repair warranty.
What do the warranties state or cover?
Retreat only warranty: This type of warranty covers the re-treatment of the affected areas of the home, should any termite activity occur. This type of warranty does NOT cover the repairs of any damages to the home. This type of warranty is sometimes the only option on homes that are already heavily infested by termites, have a lot of uncorrectable conducive conditions, or homes that are already in bad shape, such as from rotting wood, moisture damage, etc.
Retreat & repair warranty: Just as the above warranty, this type of warranty covers the re-treatment of a property, should termite activity occur. In addition, this type of warranty will also cover the repair of any damages which occurred after the termite treatment was performed. Some termite companies will require you to pay a deductible in the event that any repairs need to be made, so make sure you find out what the deductible amount is, if any. In addition, you want to find out what the maximum coverage amount is. Are you covered up to the replacement cost of the home? Are you covered for up to $250,000? $100,000? Find out!
Am I required to have a termite warranty / bond?
In Georgia, home owners are not typically required to have a termite bond on a property. It’s important to note though that Georgia is in the top 3 states in the United States in terms of termite damage claims. In addition, termite damage is not covered by home owners insurance. There’s a reason why insurance companies won’t cover this as part of your normal policy. They are NOT in the business of losing money. They (the insurance companies) are not going to cover your home, because they know that it is not a matter of if you get termites, but rather a matter of when. The termite company is able to provide you and your home with what the insurance company won’t offer you, a termite warranty, which in part, is essentially an insurance policy on your home. Get a termite warranty to have your largest investment, your home, covered!
Although home owners are typically not required to have a termite warrant on their home, they are sometimes required to have one as a condition of purchase / sale / refinance, before the transaction will be completed.
How do I get one?
Get a termite treatment performed by a licensed pest control / termite company. As part of the treatment, you will be given a qualifying warranty.
How long is the warranty good for?
In Georgia, a termite warranty is good for 1 year, at which point it can be renewed yearly on a year to year basis.