Subterranean termites live in soil across Georgia and attack wood from below, often unseen. Warning signs include spring swarms, discarded wings, mud tubes on the foundation, and hollow-sounding wood. Treatment usually means a liquid soil barrier or a bait system, often followed by an annual termite bond. Home sales commonly require a termite inspection letter.
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Termites are one of the most important pest concerns for Georgia homeowners. Native subterranean termites live in colonies in the soil throughout the state and travel into homes to feed on wood. Because they work hidden inside walls, floors, and framing, damage can go unnoticed for a long time. Regular inspections and an ongoing protection plan are common in the Southeast for that reason.
Signs of termites
- Swarmers. Winged termites emerging indoors or near the foundation, usually on warm days in late winter and spring, often after rain. Discarded wings on windowsills are another clue.
- Mud tubes. Pencil-width tunnels of soil on foundation walls, piers, or in the crawlspace. Termites build them to travel between the soil and wood.
- Damaged wood. Wood that sounds hollow, blisters, or has galleries packed with soil. Baseboards, door frames, and subfloors near moisture are common spots.
Flying ants are often mistaken for termites. Termite swarmers have straight antennae, a thick waist, and two pairs of wings of equal length. If you aren't sure, save a few in a sealed bag for the inspector.
Treatment options
- Liquid soil treatment. A termiticide applied to the soil around and under the foundation to create a treated zone. It usually involves trenching along the foundation and sometimes drilling through slabs, porches, or patios.
- Bait systems. Stations placed in the soil around the house and monitored on a schedule. Termites feed on the bait and carry it back to the colony.
- Spot or wood treatments. Used for specific infested areas, often alongside a whole-structure treatment.
Which approach fits depends on the construction (slab, crawlspace, or basement), the extent of activity, and nearby wells or water. A licensed company should explain why it recommends one method over another.
Termite letters for home sales
When a home is sold in Georgia, the purchase contract or lender often calls for a termite inspection. The result is commonly reported on Georgia's official wood infestation inspection report form, widely called a "termite letter." It notes visible evidence of termites and other wood-destroying organisms and any conditions conducive to infestation. Buyers, sellers, and agents should allow time to schedule it before closing.
Termite bonds and contracts
Many companies offer an ongoing service agreement, usually called a termite bond, with an annual inspection and renewal fee. Bonds vary a lot. Some cover retreatment only; others also cover repair of new damage, often up to a stated limit. Read the contract closely, keep your renewal paid, and ask whether the bond can transfer to a buyer when you sell.
Reduce your risk
- Keep soil, mulch, and wood from touching siding and framing.
- Fix leaks and keep the crawlspace as dry and ventilated as practical.
- Direct gutters and downspouts away from the foundation.
- Remove old stumps, scrap lumber, and firewood stacked against the house.
Need an inspection, a termite letter, or treatment? Request a pest control company and choose the timing that fits.
Frequently asked questions
What is a termite letter in Georgia?
A termite letter is the common name for a wood infestation inspection report, typically on Georgia's official form, prepared by a licensed pest control company. It's often required by the purchase contract or lender when a home is sold.
What does a termite bond cover?
It depends on the contract. Some bonds cover retreatment only, while others also cover repair of new termite damage up to a limit. Most require an annual inspection and renewal fee. Read the terms and ask whether the bond transfers to a buyer.
When do termites swarm in Atlanta?
Subterranean termites in Georgia most often swarm on warm days in late winter and spring, frequently after rain. Swarmers indoors are a strong sign of an active colony nearby and worth an inspection.