There is an old termite treatment notice by the attic hatch

What it means

The house was treated once. A notice like this typically carries the company's name and the treatment date — the two things needed to trace the history.

It does not mean it is still protected. Treatment contracts run for a set period and may or may not have been renewed. Many houses around Windermere and Horizon West have changed hands since the original treatment, and the new owners never saw the contract.

What to do with it

Call the company on the notice and ask whether there is an active contract on the address, what it covers, and when it expires.

If there is no active contract, the house is relying on whatever protection is left from the old treatment. A fresh inspection is the way to find out where things stand. Termite inspection

If there is one, read whether it is for repair and retreatment or retreatment only — Florida requires that on the first page.

What to say when you call

• The company name and date on the notice
• The year the house was built and when you bought it
• Whether you have any contract paperwork
• Whether you have seen any termite signs

Common questions

There is no notice. Was the house never treated? Not necessarily — notices get painted over or removed. New homes in Florida receive termite protection at construction, with a certificate filed with the building department.

Can I transfer the old contract? Some contracts allow it. The contract itself, or the company, will say.

Should I remove the notice? No. Leave it in place for the next inspector.