Buying Bahamas Real Estate? Don't Forget Termite Inspections

ASK any Bahamian real estate agent what the biggest pest is in the industry and they'll tell you straight – termites.

This is particularly true where there are wooden houses, mainly in some of the Bahamas out islands. Homes constructed of the original pine from the Bahamas island of Abaco are termite resistant although newer sections, unless properly treated, may have these uninvited guests.

It's been estimated that termites cause $5 billion in property damage every year in the U.S. That has the potential to make them more of a threat to homeowners than flood, wind, or even fire (depending on the area of the country).

Data isn't available in the Bahamas real estate industry, but agents have seen prices drop, significantly in some cases, because of termite damage.

Termites thrive in warm climates, such as ours. All it takes is the right combination of warmth, food and moisture to invite a termite infestation.

As a homeowner in the Bahamas, you can protect your real estate investment against these insidious pests. Contact your exterminator at the first sign of termites. We have a number of reliable exterminators to choose from.

As a purchaser, you would be well advised to seek a separate termite inspection.

Older homes, in particular, may be at risk because of the possibility of cracked foundations. However, we want to stress that a lot of older homes have been well maintained and treated to prevent termites from moving in.

Even new homes could be potential targets if the builders did not correctly perform termite pretreatments or use treated lumber.

If you are a homeowner, ask about a termite inspection and treatment programme. Purchasers should get an inspection. If you have any doubts about inspections, ask your Bahamas real estate agent for advice.