Termites are a serious threat to the structural integrity of homes across the country. They thrive in the warm, damp climate in Alabama, which makes them a concern in local communities as well. If you purchase a house and discover a termite infestation, you may have some legal recourse.
There are some key considerations to determine who you may be able to hold responsible.
Did the seller lie when asked a direct question?
Although the law does not specifically require a home seller to disclose the presence of a termite infestation, sellers are legally required to answer honestly if you ask. That is why you should always ask a seller directly about termite infestations and other pest problems. If you did so and the seller lied to you, you may have legal recourse.
Did your home inspector miss the infestation?
Most home inspections will identify the signs of a pest infestation, especially with termites. Termite damage is hard to miss when observed by an experienced home inspector. If your inspector’s report does not include any information about the termite problem, you may be able to hold the inspector partially responsible as well.
Have you sought unsuccessful pest control services?
If you reached out to a local pest control service upon discovering the termite infestation, those treatments should mitigate the problem. If the termite colony persists even after treatment, you may have a case against the exterminator as well.
Termite colonies are well-organized and task-oriented workers that can devastate the structural integrity of a home. Protect your investment by seeking restitution from the responsible parties if you found an infestation after your purchase.
