Solving The Greenville Termite Problem: CL-100s, Treatment, And Smooth Closings
- Ien Araneta
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
Buying or selling and suddenly discover termites? Take a breath. In the Upstate, wood-destroying insects—and the moisture issues that attract them—are common and manageable. With the right sequence (inspect → treat → repair → document), you can keep your deal on track and protect the house for the long haul.
How To Solve A Greenville Termite Problem (Without The Panic)
Start With Facts, Not Fear
Book a licensed pest company for a CL-100 Wood Infestation Report (the South Carolina standard most lenders require). The CL-100 checks for active subterranean termites, prior damage, wood-boring beetles, carpenter ants/bee activity, and visible moisture/fungal issues. It summarizes: (1) what’s present, (2) whether it’s active, and (3) recommended corrective actions.
Treatment Options You’ll See In Greenville
Liquid termiticide trench & treat around the foundation; sometimes small drill holes at patios/garages to complete the barrier.
Bait systems (stations placed around the perimeter) with ongoing monitoring.
Moisture fixes in crawlspaces (gutters/splash blocks, grading, vapor barrier, dehumidifier/vents) when the CL-100 cites excess moisture or fungus.
Repairs: What Typically Counts
If termites damaged structural elements (sill plates, joists, band boards), expect sistering or replacement by a qualified contractor; non-structural trim repairs are usually straightforward. For significant framing concerns, bringing in a structural engineer to specify the fix can smooth underwriting and buyer confidence.
Documentation That Keeps Closings Smooth
Paid invoice for treatment and any moisture correction.
A transferable termite bond or warranty (includes retreatment, and sometimes repair coverage—read terms).
Before/after photos and itemized repair receipts.
The updated CL-100 showing treatment and whether the issue is now inactive/mitigated.
Who Pays For What?
Customs vary by contract, but in many Upstate deals the seller provides a clear CL-100 by closing and handles treatment and any structural repairs tied to an active infestation or moisture condition. Buyers often assume the annual termite bond renewal after closing. Nail this down in writing with your contingencies and repair addenda.
When To Re-Price Versus Repair
If treatment and structural repairs are modest, fix it and move forward. If the scope is large or timeline tight, a price/credit can be cleaner—especially when contractors are backed up. The key is clarity: signed estimates or invoices so the appraiser and lender see real numbers, not guesses.
Prevention Is Your Long-Term Win
Maintain gutters and downspouts; slope soil away from the foundation.
Eliminate wood-to-ground contact (deck posts, landscaping timbers).
Keep mulch thin and pulled back from the foundation.
Install/maintain a crawlspace vapor barrier; consider dehumidification if readings are high.
Renew the termite bond and keep annual inspections on calendar.
What Buyers Should Do
Keep your due-diligence window realistic to allow treatment + repairs + re-inspection.
Ask for the termite bond to be transferred and for receipts attached to repair addenda.
If damage looks extensive, get a second opinion (WDO specialist and, if needed, an engineer). Value is protected by doing it right, not by doing it fast.
What Sellers Should Do
If you suspect issues, treat and fix before listing; a clean CL-100 and fresh bond are powerful.
Disclose prior treatment; buyers appreciate transparency and documentation.
Should something surface mid-contract, move quickly—pick one qualified company, approve repairs, and keep the paper trail tight.
Watch Or Listen To The Selling Greenville Podcast
Subscribe to the Selling Greenville podcast for real-time insights, bold perspectives, and unfiltered takes on the Upstate housing scene. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply watching the market unfold—this is where Greenville goes to stay informed.
Bottom Line
A Greenville termite problem isn’t a deal killer—it’s a checklist. Verify with a CL-100, treat effectively, repair correctly, document everything, and protect the home with a transferable bond. Do that, and you’ll close with confidence.
Ien Araneta
Journal & Podcast Editor | Selling Greenville
Comments