Termite Damage in San Jose Real Estate: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
- Lauren Willard
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
Why Termites Are a Real Estate Dealbreaker
In a hot market like San Jose, termites can stall a sale fast. Whether you're buying or selling, termite inspections, repairs, and disclosures are essential to protect yourself and your investment.
What Termite Damage Means for Sellers
Mandatory Disclosures: California law requires sellers to disclose known termite activity or damage.
Lender Requirements: Many banks won’t fund loans unless the home passes a Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) inspection.
Price Reductions: Obvious or structural termite damage can drop your asking price by 5–15%.
🛠️ Pro Tip: Treating and repairing termite damage before listing often leads to faster, higher-value sales.
What Buyers Should Watch For
Request a full termite inspection report (Section I and II findings)
Don’t rely solely on the seller’s disclosures
Ask if treatment was done by a licensed provider and request proof
Review structural reports for signs of wood damage
What Does a Real Estate Termite Report Include?
At Good Sense Termite, we provide a Wood Destroying Pests and Organisms inspection report that includes:
Section I (active infestation or damage)
Section II (conditions deemed likely lead to infestation or damage)
Photos, diagram, and treatment recommendations
Quotes for local treatment or full fumigation if needed
Things to Know:
California law requires termite disclosure during home sales
Most lenders require a termite inspection for loans
Section I termite findings must often be corrected before escrow closes
Buyers should ask for proof of past treatments
Sellers benefit from treating termite issues before listing
Termite damage can reduce home value in San Jose by thousands
Good Sense Termite provides real estate-ready inspection reports
FAQ
Q: Are termite inspections required when selling a home in San Jose?
A: Not by law—but most real estate transactions and lenders require it, especially in Santa Clara County.
Q: What is a Section I vs. Section II finding?
A: Section I = active damage or infestation. Section II = risk conditions like wood-soil contact or leaks.
Q: Can I negotiate after a termite report?
A: Yes. Buyers often ask for repairs, treatment, or credits based on the inspection.
Q: Does insurance cover termite damage?
A: Unfortunately, no. Most homeowners insurance excludes termite-related damage.
Don’t Let Termites Derail Your Deal
Whether you're listing or buying, Good Sense Termite provides fast, reliable real estate inspections in San Jose—with reports tailored for smooth closings.
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