What is a termite bond in Alabama

A termite bond is a contract between a homeowner and a pest control company. The bond stipulates that the company is responsible for regular exterminations, inspections, and termite-related repairs throughout the contract term. Understanding the benefits of a termite bond and the rights it gives you can help you know how to deal with any termite issues you might encounter on your property.

How Are Termite Bonds Issued?

Any certified pest control company in Alabama can provide a termite bond. When you buy a house, your home inspector, insurer, or real estate attorney may be able to recommend a reputable business. A representative from the pest control company will perform an inspection of your property to determine the specific terms of the bond.

Why Do You Need a Termite Bond?

Like much of the southeastern United States, Alabama is an ideal environment for termites to thrive. These creatures may be small, but they can wreak havoc on your home’s structure, as well as your food and water supply. However, most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover termite damage. This is why termite bonds are necessary.

When you buy a termite bond in Alabama, you enter into an agreement that can give you peace of mind about any possible termite damage. Depending on the specifics of the bond’s terms, this annual fee may entitle you to:

• An initial termite prevention treatment
• Regular termite inspections
• Further treatments as necessary at no additional cost
• The cost of repairs if termites cause damage to your home

Be sure to read and understand the terms of your bond so you can know what to expect.

Who Pays for Termite Inspections When Selling or Buying a House?

When a house is selling in Alabama, it is typical for the seller to pay for a termite inspection. Termite infestations can significantly affect home values, so buyers want reassurance that termites are not secretly damaging the property.

However, there are some cases where a seller may not pay for the inspection, including the following:

• If the buyer makes the termite inspection a condition of sale, they may opt to pay for it themselves to ensure an unbiased report.
• During negotiations, the buyer and seller may agree on a closing cost credit where the buyer pays for the inspection but gets money back at closing to offset the cost.
• If the seller has a current termite bond and documentation of recent inspections, the buyer may accept these and not request an additional inspection.

No matter who pays, a clear termite inspection report is critical for completing a home sale in Alabama. Sellers should fix any active infestations, while buyers should carefully review inspection results.

How Do I File a Claim If I Find Termites?

If you find termites in your home during the term of your bond, take the following steps to maximize your chances of a successful claim:

• Take pictures of the termites and damage to your home.
• Collect specimens of the insects to help determine which specific type of termites you have in your home.
• Contact the pest control company to arrange a treatment.
• Keep copies of your termite bond and documents relating to each inspection and treatment.
• If your problems continue, speak with an Alabama termite damage attorney who can begin a claim on your behalf.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for Termite Damage in Alabama?

Many people believe only termites are to blame for the damage they cause. However, the pest control company may bear some liability for your termite-related losses if you have a termite bond.

Many people consider termite damage a frustrating situation that primarily affects property. However, termite infestations can cause health problems for human beings as well. Some people suffer allergic reactions and asthma attacks due to termites. Termite damage to the structure of your home can also lead directly to serious injuries due to collapsing roofs, beams, walls, and floors. These injuries may include:

• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Internal organ damage
• Soft tissue injuries

In addition to these physical consequences, accidents from termite damage can also create psychological scars, leading to mental health concerns such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

When these types of adverse outcomes occur due to a pest control company’s failure to honor the terms of their bond, an experienced Alabama termite damage attorney can hold them accountable for that negligence.

What Compensation May I Be Owed for Termite Damage?

If you have a termite bond in Alabama, you may be entitled to compensation for damage based on the specific terms of your policy. Typical compensation can include:

• Repair costs – Most termite bonds cover repairing or replacing damaged structural elements like walls, floors, and roofing. Actual repair costs are usually reimbursed after presenting invoices.
• Hotel fees – If your home is uninhabitable during repairs, your bond may cover hotel fees for temporary accommodations.
• Loss of use – You may be compensated for associated expenses if you must move out during repairs.
• Personal property loss – If termites destroy your personal belongings, such as furniture, you may receive reimbursement up to policy limits.
• Medical expenses – If anyone suffers illness or injury related to the infestation or damage, you may be able to claim compensation for medical costs.
• Reduced value – In some cases, termite damage can lower the market value of your home even after repairs. Your bond may compensate you for this loss in property value.

It is essential to read your specific policy to understand precisely what is covered. An attorney can also review your situation and help you pursue the maximum compensation allowable under your termite bond.

Contact an Alabama Termite Damage Lawyer

If your home has had termite damage or you have suffered termite-related injuries while your home was under a termite bond, contact the skilled legal team at Gartlan Injury Law. Our experienced Alabama termite damage attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today or fill out our online form for a free consultation to learn how we can help you.

Visit Our Alabama Termite Damage Law Offices