New Build Homes in Old Orange Groves: Not Often Talked About Challenges with Termites

Today, we're addressing a specific concern for many new homeowners in Florida: the unique challenges of constructing new homes on land previously used as orange groves.

The Appeal of Orange Grove Lands

Florida's iconic orange groves not only contribute to the state's identity but also to its evolving landscape. As residential developers seek attractive, available land, these groves are increasingly being transformed into residential communities. While the idea of living on these historic lands is appealing, there are several important considerations for potential homeowners, especially when it comes to termites.

Soil and Environmental Conditions

Soil Composition: The sandy soil that is ideal for citrus cultivation presents unique challenges for building foundations. This type of soil can shift and settle unevenly, potentially creating entry points for termites. The loose nature of the soil also facilitates easier movement for termites, allowing them to colonize new homes more quickly and extensively.

Pesticide Residue: While the pesticides used in orange groves might have helped keep pests at bay in the past, their residue can diminish over time, reducing their effectiveness against termites. Additionally, the environmental impact of these chemicals can make the land more hospitable to termite colonies as the natural predators of termites are also kept away.

Increased Termite Risk

Ideal Conditions for Infestation: The combination of warm, humid climate and rich organic material (such as leftover roots and tree stumps) creates an absolutely ideal breeding ground for termites. New construction disturbs the soil and can unearth dormant termite colonies or attract new colonies looking for a fresh food source.

Construction Challenges: Often, during the construction phase, large amounts of wood and other cellulose materials are present on-site, which can attract termites. If preventative measures are not taken during this phase, it can lead to significant termite problems before the home is even completed.

Proactive Measures for Homeowners

Termite Bonds: For homes built on former agricultural lands, securing a termite bond is a wise investment. This bond ensures regular inspections and treatments, significantly reducing the risk of termite damage.

Pre-Construction Treatments: Treating the soil with termiticides before beginning construction can create a chemical barrier that helps prevent termites from reaching the structure. This treatment is particularly important in areas like former orange groves where termite activity is likely to be high.

Regular Inspections: Once the home is built, regular termite inspections are crucial. These should be more frequent than in other areas due to the increased risk factors associated with the land’s previous use.

Bottom Line

Although these areas can be beautiful, building a new home on land previously used as an orange grove in Florida comes with its own set of challenges, particularly from termites. If you are considering building a new home, be vigilant, ask questions, visit the job-site weekly as significant changes happen quickly, and have written into your contract (before you sign it) the right to a Foundation, Pre-Drywall, and Pre-Closing Inspection on your new home. The goal is to ensure that your new home is safe from the ground up, protecting your investment from common and not-so-common risks associated with these lands.

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New Build Homes in Old Orange Groves: Not Often Talked About Challenges with Termites