Termites have recently been found in the Laurentian Hills neighbourhood of Kitchener, and the city has taken steps to encourage homeowners to do something about it.
A new bylaw has been drafted by the city council’s finance committee, which will make dealing with infestations by this destructive insect the responsibility of the property owners. There are also changes to the bylaws that will allow enforcement officers to come on to a property to check for termites, and also to place traps and monitor their levels.
Those who are found to have an infestation will be ordered to clean it up, or face a stiff fine. Fines will range from $5,000 for a first offence, up to a $25,000 maximum. Those who do not pay the amount will have it placed on their tax bill.
People who own the 23 properties in Laurentian Hills between Briargate and Greenrock Drive, where the insects have made a foothold, will be eligible to receive a loan form the city to help cover the cost of treating the problem. The loans will have to be paid back in five years.
Termite infestations can be destructive if not tackled promptly and effectively. Brochure printers can produce informational pamphlets that let homeowners know about the problem, what to look for, and what to do should termites be found. They can also let people know what can happen should they not address the problem.
