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New Home? Termites Don't Wait for Your Home to Age
New homes in Southern California are not immune to termite infestation. Drywood termites swarm into new attic framing within years of construction; subterranean termites exploit irrigation systems established around new landscaping.
Most new construction in California includes pre-construction Termidor soil treatment to protect against subterranean termites — check your purchase documents to confirm if this was applied and when.
Drywood termites can establish in new construction quickly. Attic framing in a 2-year-old home can harbor active drywood termite colonies if swarmers found entry during a warm-weather swarming period. The wood being newer doesn't deter them.
Common new construction termite entry points: unsealed attic vents (swarmers enter during swarming season), fascia board gaps (common in rushed construction), wood-to-soil contact at grade (plantings installed too close to foundation), and any construction debris left near the structure.
A first inspection 3–5 years after move-in is recommended for new construction in Southern California. This catches early-stage infestation before it spreads to multiple framing members, when spot treatment is most cost-effective.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does my new home have pre-construction termite protection?
Many California new homes include pre-construction Termidor soil treatment, but not all. Check your title report, HOA disclosures, or builder warranty documents. If you're unsure, have an inspector verify and assess current subterranean risk.
How soon after construction can termites infest?
Drywood termites can begin establishing new colonies in attic framing within 1–2 years of construction if swarmers gain entry. Subterranean termites typically take longer to establish from the surrounding soil but can be present as early as 2–3 years post-construction.
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