Do I Need a Termite Bond or Just Maintenance? Let’s Talk About It.

If you live in the South—especially here along the coast of North Carolina—you’ve probably heard the words “termite bond” thrown around. Maybe you’ve even had a pest control company out to treat your home. But what’s the difference between termite maintenance and a termite bond, and which one do you actually need?

As a real estate agent, I get this question all the time—and the answer really comes down to the level of protection you want for your home.

What Is Termite Maintenance?

Termite maintenance usually means your home has been treated as a preventative measure or in response to a past issue. This might be a liquid treatment around the foundation, bait stations, or a spot treatment if activity was found.

✅ The good:

• It's proactive and can help prevent infestations.

• It's often less expensive upfront.

❌ The not-so-good:

• It’s a one-time fix unless you schedule repeat treatments.

• There’s no coverage or guarantee if termites come back.

• If they do return and cause damage, you’re responsible for both the new treatment and the repairs.

What Is a Termite Bond?

A termite bond is a service agreement between you and a licensed pest control company. It usually includes annual inspections, ongoing treatment, and—depending on the type of bond—repair coverage if termites ever cause damage.

There are two main types:

• Retreatment Bonds: Cover future treatments, but not repair costs.

• Repair Bonds: Cover both treatment and the cost of fixing termite damage.

✅ Why I Recommend It:

• You’re covered long-term, not just in the moment.

• You’ll have regular inspections to catch problems early.

• It adds value and peace of mind for potential buyers.

So, Do You Need a Termite Bond?

If you're asking me—as someone who sees homes go under contract every day—the answer is yes, a termite bond is almost always worth it, especially here in the South where termites thrive.

• Selling your home? Buyers often ask for a bond or prefer homes that already have one.

• Buying a home? Make sure to ask if there's a current termite bond—and whether it's transferable.

• Already own your home? It’s never too late to get one in place for peace of mind.

Treatments are helpful, but they’re not the same as a bond. A termite bond offers protection that can save you thousands in repairs—and help your home stand out in a competitive market.

Final Thoughts

Here in Coastal North Carolina, we’re no strangers to the beauty of Southern living—and the occasional nuisance that comes with it. Termites may be part of the landscape, but they don’t have to be part of your home.

If you have questions about whether your home is protected or you’re unsure what your property needs, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to connect you with local, trusted termite professionals and guide you through what makes the most sense for your situation. Because protecting your investment is part of what I do—and I’m here to help every step of the way.