Are termites a problem in Georgia? (Atlanta, Roswell: houses, inspection, homeowner)

[Ariel Mack]

My husband and I are considering relocating to Roswell, GA. We notice that many of the houses on the MLS listing are described as having "wood exterior walls". What are the issues related to houses with wood exterior walls (for instance, are termites a problem?)

Also, we have read some blogs about the need to spray shrubs in the yard monthly. Are mosquitoes and/or other bugs a problem in the area? We would greatly appreciate your comments on these 2 questions.

[BobKovacs]

You definitely want to have a termite inspection on any home here in GA, and have the house treated if its more tha 5 years old. The original treatment that's required when a home is built is only good for about 5 years.

[rcsteiner]

Originally Posted by Ariel Mack

My husband and I are considering relocating to Roswell, GA. We notice that many of the houses on the MLS listing are described as having "wood exterior walls". What are the issues related to houses with wood exterior walls (for instance, are termites a problem?)

Also, we have read some blogs about the need to spray shrubs in the yard monthly. Are mosquitoes and/or other bugs a problem in the area? We would greatly appreciate your comments on these 2 questions.

Termites are a potential issue in the Atlanta area, but most homeowners obtain a termite bond from a qualified company and either have the properly treated periodically and inspected yearly (in the case of Termidor chemical treatments) or have a Centricon bait system installed and inspected multiple times per year. Some opt for both methods.

Good termite bonds will cover all repairs due to damage from termites.

Never heard about shrub spraying ... it may depend on the types of plants someone has in their yard.

[neil0311]

Yes, termites are huge problem here. Probably the number one problem for most homeowners.

I would reiterate that termites are not a "DIY" endeavor here in Georgia. Not only can you not prevent or treat them properly on your own, you may find it more difficult to sell your home (or may have to pay for the bond anyway before you can sell) if you don't have a professional termite bond.

Advice is to contract with a qualified exterminator who backs their work and will pay for all the repairs if termites do damage. We use Arrow and have been very satisfied for the last 5 years.