Termites in Arizona | ROVER REALTY

In Arizona, we have a simple saying about termites. It’s not if you’ll see them one day. It’s when.

Our desert climate is perfect for subterranean termites. The upside is that they’re easy to treat. Termites here aren’t a major crisis. They’re just a normal part of owning a home.

But what many people don’t realize is how termite issues actually work during a real estate sale — and how much bad information still floats around our industry.

A Real Example From This Week.

We’re helping a buyer using a VA loan. With VA financing, the rule is clear.
If there are termites, the home must be treated before closing.

What surprised me was the listing agent acting like the sellers treating termites was a big, unexpected favor. It’s not. In most Arizona home sales, buyers expect sellers to take care of termite treatment as part of the process. It’s normal, not extra.

How Termite Treatment Works in Arizona.

Arizona deals with subterranean termites, which live in the soil. That means:

Holes are drilled around the foundation
Product is injected into the soil
Holes are sealed
Treatment is filed with the state

There is no attic treatment for subterranean termites. There is no tenting. Treatment is simple and fast when you hire the right company.

The Warranty Follows the House.

Another common misunderstanding is who the warranty belongs to.
In Arizona:

All termite treatments must be registered with the Arizona Department of Agriculture, and the warranty follows the property, not the person.

It doesn’t matter whose name is on the receipt. What matters is correct state reporting.

Why This Matters for Sellers.

In this price range, our buyer had 17 homes that met his needs and four strong finalists. When buyers have choices, sellers can’t afford confusion, delays, or bad advice.

Incorrect information about termites can slow down a sale or even kill it.