Termite damage can be an expensive problem that impacts the safety and value of your home. In Maryland, the Eastern Subterranean Termite is the most likely culprit. The sooner you can
address an infestation, the better your chance of stopping the problem before it becomes more serious. The signs of a termite infestation are important for every homeowner to recognize.
The Spring Termite Swarms Around Maryland Homes
An important sign that should raise suspicion of termite activity is the swarms of flying termites, called “swarmers,” that rise in the spring. Most of the termites in Maryland live underground in colonies like ants. As the winter ends and the ground softens, clouds of winged termites take to the air. These termites are not hunting for wood and will not damage your home. Instead, they are trying to mate and start a new colony. If you see a swarm in your area, it means that an active termite colony is not far away, and you should look for other signs.
Many new homeowners who purchased their home in the late summer or winter first became aware of a problem when they woke up in April to find swarmers flying around their house. Sometimes, swarmers are described as “flying ants.”
Brown Termite Mud Tunnels
Maryland termites prefer to live in the dark. Staying out of the sun keeps them from drying up and dying. However, the termites need to search for wood to stay alive. If they cannot stay underground, they will build mud tunnels to keep them covered. On Maryland homes, these tunnels can be found running from the ground, up the exposed part of a cement foundation, and along the inside of houses, on wood beams and sometimes drywall. If you see mud tunnels on any part of your home, it is important to have an expert come and inspect the building.
Wood Damage in Maryland Homes
Another clear sign of a termite infestation is wood damage. Because termites like to stay in the dark, damage to wood will not be obvious at first. The insects damage wood from the inside out. You may notice spots on your wood that feel soft and spongy, and it looks like a little bubble. Because the termites bring extra moisture into the wood, you may see dark spots or blistering paint. In advanced stages, wood may begin to sag or crack due to the loss of support. If you notice wood around your home that looks unhealthy, you should call for an inspection right away.
Whitney, LLP Can Help With Maryland Termite Claims
Sometimes, Maryland residents have been told that their home is free from termites by a professional inspector. Later on, homeowners are surprised to discover that they have to hire a termite damage contractor to repair hidden damage, an unexpected and unfair expense.
Whitney, LLP’s termite lawyers offer legal consultations for Maryland homeowners who suspect that they have been taken advantage of by dishonest or negligent real estate agents, sellers, inspection companies or pest control companies.
Not only can our lawyers help you recover termite damage repair costs, but we can also seek compensation for the cost of termite treatments and emotional distress. In 2019, the attorneys at Whitney, LLP successfully recovered $1,068,000 in a termite damage case against a fraudulent and negligent inspection company. Another case involving a real estate agent who falsely represented to our clients that a termite inspection had been done was covered on WBAL by investigative reporter Barry Simms.
Maryland Termite Lawyer for Damage Claims
The negligence of a realtor or inspection company should not create a burden for you. If you are dealing with the cost of termite damage repair or need to hire a termite damage contractor at your Maryland home, the termite attorneys at Whitney, LLP can determine whether you have a case and how best to pursue compensation. A legal consultation is only a phone call away. Contact the Maryland termite attorneys at Whitney, LLP at (410) 583-8000 or reach out online.