Every year, homeowners around the country suffer billions of dollars in property damage caused by termites. South Carolina residents are no different. Here in The Palmetto State, termites are especially active due to our ideal climate. Everyone loves our springs and summers, and so do termites. They're known to wreak havoc on the structural integrity of homes in the Lowcountry and throughout the state. It may be surprising to hear, then, that many of the homes we're referencing had termite bonds - which is essentially a contract between a homeowner and their termite prevention company. This bond holds the company accountable if termites or damage are found after treatment. Unfortunately, many termite control services and insurance companies try to escape responsibility, using complicated contracts, terms, and language as a shield from honoring the bond.
Other times, before buying a home, a homeowner relies on a "trustworthy" home inspector to identify costly issues and areas of improvement. In situations like these, the home inspector's knowledge and guidance are paramount to safety. In many cases, however, home inspectors fail to detect significant issues like signs of a termite infestation.
In both scenarios above, the homeowner may be entitled to compensation. With an experienced termite lawyer in Spartanburg, SC, the average person has a chance of winning in a court of law. That's where Cobb Hammett, LLC, comes into play.
With a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of termite control and home inspection contracts, Cobb Hammett law firm specializes in cases involving termites. We're proud to represent home and property owners who are harmed by pest control and home inspection negligence. We believe that when you sign a contract with one of these entities, the terms of the contract should be upheld. When they're not, somebody must be held responsible.
Instead of trying to take on these companies without a lawyer and wasting hundreds of hours to untangle a web of legalese, let Cobb Hammett, LLC handle the hard work on your behalf.
When you choose Cobb Hammett for a termite damage attorney in Spartanburg, SC, you can rest easy knowing you're in confident, capable hands. Clients trust our law firm for termite damage cases because we have:
Unlike some termite damage law firms, our lawyers study the practices and policies of large termite control and home inspection companies. We use creative strategies to avoid unfair arbitration clauses and have devoted real resources to solving our client's claims.
Simply put, you can trust our termite damage attorneys with your case because we genuinely care about you as our client.
Whether you're a homeowner, commercial property owner, or a homeowner's association, know that you're not alone. If termites are causing damage to your property, don't let giant pest control chains or home inspection franchises take advantage of you. The cost of repairs should fall where it should - on the shoulders of the home inspection company, pest control company, or their insurers.
In a perfect world, customers would be able to rely on results provided by pest control companies. Unfortunately, many termite companies intentionally mislead their hardworking clients.
Termite control companies of all sizes have convincing strategies for skirting responsibility when their work is shoddy. They know how to utilize legal jargon, intimidation and confusing contracts to their advantage, deterring ordinary people from filing lawsuits.
At Cobb Hammett, LLC, we're very aware of these tactics and excuses. Our attorneys overcome these defenses with effective tools, exposing the termite control company's failure to deliver on promised services. Unlike some law firms, our termite damage lawyers have an solid track record.
We're not afraid to get our hands dirty when it comes to holding termite companies accountable for damages you suffered. We'll do everything in our power to do what's right and get you the compensation you deserve.
Though every case is different, we're often able to recover substantial damages for our clients, such as:
If you feel like your termite company breached its bond or committed fraud, contact Cobb Hammett Law Firm today. Your termite damage attorney in Spartanburg, SC, is ready to hear your story. We know how to maneuver around unfair pest control contract terms and have the experience needed to see through common excuses and tactics.
It's not always easy to spot the signs of termite damage, especially if you're an average person without much knowledge of the termite species. Plus, termites often wreak havoc in unseen areas like drywall, siding, and the framing of your house, so seeing damage isn't always easy. Despite those challenges, there are some common signs and areas for you to consider.
Some common signs of termite damage include:
Some of the most common areas where termites do damage include:
If you find termite damage in your home, it's best not to try and fix it yourself. Why? First, repairing damage from termites is a complicated, painstaking endeavor that requires a skilled, tedious approach. Spotting termite damage and knowing how to fix it requires a deep knowledge of how termites behave and live to get rid of them. Second, and perhaps most importantly, taking a DIY approach to termite damage may ruin your termite lawsuit.
That's true even if you have the skills and experience to do so. You might inadvertently destroy important evidence that is key to your case, which may ruin your chances of compensation for damages and poor work. Instead of trying to repair damage on your own, get a second opinion from a trusted inspector. Once your concerns are verified, it's time to call Cobb Hammett Law Firm. Our experienced termite damage attorneys will dig into your case and discover if you're one of the thousands of people with grounds for filing a termite lawsuit.
We get this question often at Cobb Hammett Law Firm, though the answer is sometimes unclear. What we do know is that if you're looking for the max amount of compensation, we'll need to discover who was at fault. In some cases, it's easy to determine fault. For example, if you're a new homeowner, and a termite inspector or seller didn't inform you of an infestation, you may have grounds to sue.
However, things get more complex if you rent a home or bought a residence many years ago and have been using a pest control company for termite infestation. You could have grounds for a case against the pest control company, your landlord, or a different third party, depending on the circumstances of your case. That's why working with a termite attorney in Spartanburg, SC is so important - so they can investigate the details and damages associated with your infestation and determine who is accountable.
If you have trusted your home with a pest control company and encounter a termite issue, you might not get the help you expect, even if your claim is legitimate. With years of experience fighting big pest control companies and their insurers, we've heard just about every excuse in the book. If you're dealing with a termite problem, be wary if you hear any of the following excuses.
However, things get more complex if you rent a home or bought a residence many years ago and have been using a pest control company for termite infestation. You could have grounds for a case against the pest control company, your landlord, or a different third party, depending on the circumstances of your case. That's why working with a termite attorney in Spartanburg, SC is so important - so they can investigate the details and damages associated with your infestation and determine who is accountable.
If you're thinking about buying a new home, hiring a home inspector to spot maintenance and repair issues is a wise idea. But what happens when you spend your hard-earned money on an inaccurate inspection report? What if the report fails to notify you of termite damage or the potential for a termite infestation? In many cases, erroneous inspection reports lead to nasty surprises once you're moved in. When it comes to missed or unreported termite infestations or damage, negligence often falls on the home inspector's shoulders.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, it's crucial that you contact a termite attorney in Spartanburg, SC. At Cobb Hammett Law Firm, our termite lawyers have years of experience bringing claims and filing lawsuits on behalf of clients suffering at the hands of negligent or dishonest home inspectors. From compensation for emotional distress to repairs for termite damage, our firm can help right the wrong you had no say in receiving.
If your home inspector did not uphold their duties and obligations to you as the home buyer, you could most certainly sue a home inspector.
Unless your termite infestation was new when your home was inspected, it would be hard for a home inspector to miss it. If you just bought a house and you have discovered damage or signs of a termite infestation, contact Cobb Hammett today. Our team of termite damage attorneys may be able to prove that your inspector failed at spotting and reporting termite issues in your new home.
However, proving negligence is easier said than done without a lawyer by your side. Termite inspectors aren't always expected to find every bit of termite damage, and they're often not the final say in whether your home is damage-free. That's why, with Cobb Hammett Law Firm as your advocate, we'll ask the hard-hitting questions needed to discover if your inspector missed termite damage for legitimate reasons or if they were careless and negligent. We'll help facilitate a second inspection if needed and will work tirelessly to earn you the compensation you deserve.
You should know that even if your home inspector is legally negligent for missing termite damage or infestations, their liability will often be limited due to the language in their contract.
If your lawsuit doesn't have the proper foundation to prove negligence, your termite damage lawyer in Spartanburg, SC may be able to win compensation via breach of contract. In many circumstances, this is the best route to take if it's easier to prove that an inspector violated a contract. For example, suppose the home inspection contract you signed called for a whole-home inspection, and the inspector failed to survey your crawlspace or attic. In that case, you may have a viable claim in court.
At Cobb Hammett Law Firm, we understand that every termite damage case situation is different. As such, we approach every case with a nuanced, multi-faceted strategy crafted with your best interests in mind.
When a termite prevention company or home inspector is negligent and causes damage to your home, it's time to act fast. You need a trustworthy termite attorney in cityname, state by your side to take the proper steps toward getting compensation.
When you depend on Cobb Hammett, LLC, you'll receive personalized attention and proactive representation. That's because we make an intentional decision to limit our law firm's overall caseload. This allows us to better focus on our individual clients, many of whom remain with us for generations. We do not pass off cases to paralegals or junior associates but rather prioritize the attorney-client relationship.
We value compassion and integrity, and our practice reflects those values. If you're ready to take a stand, call our office today. Our termite damage lawyers will help create a better future for you, your family, or your business.
Law is complicated matter. It can cause you a big problem if you ignore it. Let us help you!
Deborah Pilley and Robin Pilley, referred to as Bianchi and R. Pilley, filed the lawsuit against Spartanburg Community College (SCC), the Spartanburg Community College Foundation, and President Michael Mikota for copyright infringement, false designation of origin, common law trademark infringement and declaratory judgment for refusal of applications to register Chaser marks on Oct. 16.According to the lawsuit, Bianchi and R. Pilley are both daughters and heirs of the late Dr. Pilley, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Wofford Colleg...
Deborah Pilley and Robin Pilley, referred to as Bianchi and R. Pilley, filed the lawsuit against Spartanburg Community College (SCC), the Spartanburg Community College Foundation, and President Michael Mikota for copyright infringement, false designation of origin, common law trademark infringement and declaratory judgment for refusal of applications to register Chaser marks on Oct. 16.
According to the lawsuit, Bianchi and R. Pilley are both daughters and heirs of the late Dr. Pilley, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Wofford College. Dr. Pilley was famous for his research on dogs’ learning abilities and for teaching his own dog, named Chaser, to understand over 1,000 unique words. Dr. Pilley passed away in 2018, followed by Chaser’s passing in 2019.
Since his death, Bianchi and R. Pilley have “provided substantial design input and held final approval authority” for the installation of several murals and a bronze statue of Chaser in downtown Spartanburg in honor of their father’s legacy, according to the lawsuit.
The lawsuit alleges that in September 2020, SCC’s president and Dr. Pilley’s daughters discussed a partnership to create a mascot named Chaser, a representation of the doctor’s dog. A verbal license agreement was made allowing SCC to use images, logos and mascot designs created from a photo of Chaser taken by Bianchi, as well as the “Chaser” or “Chasers” trademark. Bianchi and R. Pilley were given approval and veto power over the image and trademark use. SCC adopted the Chaser mascot on Nov. 2, 2021.
The lawsuit claims that on Oct. 22, 2024, Mikota presented a written license agreement to Bianchi that “sought to have The Pilley Group grant and transfer to SCC an irrevocable exclusive license” to use the Chaser name and trademark. During negotiations, Bianchi learned that SCC was using the Chaser trademark in unapproved ways and requested that SCC cease those uses. SCC allegedly refused.
Spartanburg Community College said it is aware of the complaint, which will be addressed in due course during the legal process.
Read the full lawsuit here.
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Voters across Spartanburg County cast ballots Nov. 4 in mayoral races that centered on growth, infrastructure, and preserving small-town identity.Lyman, Campobello, Pacolet, Central Pacolet, and Reidville all held mayoral elections.In Lyman, former town councilman David Petty bear out incumbent Glenn Greer and newcomer Phillip Bennett.A topic for many was controlled growth, specifically in Lyman, where Gary Jones, 31, said he considered Petty as the top candidate because of his take on the town's growth."When...
Voters across Spartanburg County cast ballots Nov. 4 in mayoral races that centered on growth, infrastructure, and preserving small-town identity.
Lyman, Campobello, Pacolet, Central Pacolet, and Reidville all held mayoral elections.
In Lyman, former town councilman David Petty bear out incumbent Glenn Greer and newcomer Phillip Bennett.
A topic for many was controlled growth, specifically in Lyman, where Gary Jones, 31, said he considered Petty as the top candidate because of his take on the town's growth.
"When I looked into his website and looked at what he stood for, I like that he wants to keep things to have a sense of a town here, but wants to combine it with infrastructure," Jones said.
Lyman has had a population increase of more than 3,000 since 2020.
Don Waddell, 57, said he reviewed his candidates' previous experience and chose Greer for mayor. Waddell said he moved to the area from Southern California six years ago.
"We've been happy with what the mayor's done and want to move forward with the progress he's made. We wanted to get out of that (California) crazy and we don't want to see it come here," Waddell said.
Four other communities had contested races for mayor. With 100% of precincts reporting, here are the winners:
David Petty: 432
Glenn Greer: 419
Phillip Bennett: 43
Aaron Ash: 79
Rob Medley: 13
Tim Burrell: 174
Ned Camby: 141
Buddy Harrelson: 19
Susan Bennett: 7
Joshua Simpson: 178
Paul Konon: 144
Incumbents Shirley Clopton in Duncan and Robert B. Briggs in Landrum were unopposed for mayor.
SPARTANBURG, S.C. –Morning fog clings low across open fields as the first light spills over the Blue Ridge foothills, catching on pale, dew-dusted grass. The air feels crisp but calm — a steady signal that Upstate South Carolina is settling into the heart of November with mild, tranquil weather for the days ahead.High pressure remains firmly in control across the Carolinas, promising sunny skies and gentle breezes through midweek. Today’s high reaches near 66°F, ...
SPARTANBURG, S.C. –Morning fog clings low across open fields as the first light spills over the Blue Ridge foothills, catching on pale, dew-dusted grass. The air feels crisp but calm — a steady signal that Upstate South Carolina is settling into the heart of November with mild, tranquil weather for the days ahead.
High pressure remains firmly in control across the Carolinas, promising sunny skies and gentle breezes through midweek. Today’s high reaches near 66°F, climbing to around 70°F by Wednesday under bright, dry air. Winds stay light from the north and northwest, keeping the humidity comfortably low — perfect for morning commutes, yard cleanup, or early holiday decorating before Thanksgiving planning ramps up.
Each night dips into the low to mid-40s, with skies staying clear and calm. The crisp, steady pattern continues into Thursday and Friday, though a weak front late in the week could spark a subtle temperature drop heading into the weekend. No rain is expected before Friday, making this one of the driest stretches the Upstate has seen in several weeks.
To be fair, there’s little sign of true winter weather yet, but longer-range models hint at a possible cold snap mid to late November — one that could bring the season’s first real chill. For now, the region enjoys ideal late-fall balance: warm afternoons, cool mornings, and the kind of steady sunshine that makes the first week of November travel-friendly and stress-free.
Five-Day Outlook for Spartanburg, SC:Mon: 66/41 – Sunny; light winds.Tue: 68/42 – Bright and calm.Wed: 71/46 – Sunny; mild breeze.Thu: 70/44 – Sunny and dry.Fri: 69/47 – Mostly sunny; cooler trend begins.
Former Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright released a statement after pleading guilty to federal charges, saying, "I pleaded guilty in federal court because I am guilty."Wright remained silent as he walked out of the federal courthouse in Anderson, Thursday morning."[Thursday] was a significant day," said Walt Wilkins, a former U.S. attorney and 13th Circuit solicitor. "Former Sheriff Chuck Wright is now a convicted felon. He came into court. He accepted his responsibility, and he pled guilty to all...
Former Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright released a statement after pleading guilty to federal charges, saying, "I pleaded guilty in federal court because I am guilty."
Wright remained silent as he walked out of the federal courthouse in Anderson, Thursday morning.
"[Thursday] was a significant day," said Walt Wilkins, a former U.S. attorney and 13th Circuit solicitor. "Former Sheriff Chuck Wright is now a convicted felon. He came into court. He accepted his responsibility, and he pled guilty to all the allegations that were alleged in the information."
Wright pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds; conspiracy to commit wire fraud; and obtaining controlled substances through misrepresentation.
"What that tells me is that the defense lawyers and the U.S. Attorney's Office have been working for months negotiating out this particular — I don't want to call it a plea deal because it's not a plea deal — but they negotiated out what former Sheriff Wright and the other defendants would plead guilty to. This didn't just happen overnight," Wilkins said. "Corruption is one of the top priorities of the FBI and SLED."
Amos Durham pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds.
"$89,000 was withdrawn by cash from the benevolence fund. The benevolence fund is not allowed to withdraw cash amounts because they can't keep track of it," Assistant U.S. Attorney Lothrop Morris said after the hearing.
"My client acknowledged that he'd made mistakes that are very obvious from the public record," attorney Frank Eppes, who is representing Durham, said. "We have decided to go forward with the plea as quickly as possible to get this matter resolved as quickly as possible."
Lawson Watson, who federal prosecutors said is Wright's cousin, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
"He's 73 with no prior convictions," said Beattie Ashmore, who is Watson's attorney. "He's admitted his guilt, accepts his responsibility and looking forward to putting this behind him with sentencing one day."
For more details about the federal charges, click here
The maximum penalty is nearly 30 years. The former sheriff also will have to pay at least $440,000 in restitution.
"These folks were in positions of power and trust. They violated that trust amongst the folks of Spartanburg and the folks in South Carolina," said Kevin Moore, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Columbia field office.
During court, Wright told Judge Timothy Cain that he sought treatment for an opioid addiction at an inpatient facility in Florida back in April and suffered a heart attack in September.
Micah Black, the 10th Circuit solicitor, is overseeing the case from the state level. He penned a letter Wednesday night stating the former sheriff will not be prosecuted by the state.
"Today is a win for Spartanburg County and for the people that live here in South Carolina," Black said. "After a joint effort with this team, we felt that this was the best avenue forward. I think at the end of the day, once this whole thing is wrapped up, the people will see that."
The federal government's probation office will now create a pre-sentence report that will outline the guidelines for sentencing. Wilkins said that the process will likely take about three months, possibly longer, to complete.
A date for Wright to be sentenced has not been announced.
Below you will find the full statement released after court on Thursday:
"Today, I pleaded guilty in federal court because I am guilty. Not only did I violate the law, but I also broke the sacred trust the people of Spartanburg County placed in me. I do not have the words to adequately convey my remorse, my apologies, and my regret.
"Serving in law enforcement was all I ever wanted to do; indeed, it is all I have ever known. Being elected Sheriff of my home county of Spartanburg was the highlight of my professional life. Because of the goodness and generosity of the people of Spartanburg, I lived the American dream. A young man, who left an abusive home at the age of 16 to go live in a fire department and never finished high school, was trusted to be the Sheriff of his home county.
"I squandered that dream job through my actions, and for that I simply ask that the people of Spartanburg and my brothers and sisters in law enforcement forgive me and know that I will spend whatever time I have left trying to make amends.
"I offer no excuses for my actions. I accept full responsibility. I am prepared to accept whatever punishment is meted out by the court. My time in a drug treatment facility enabled me to see more clearly the wrongfulness of my actions and the need for me to leave law enforcement. I resigned, accepted responsibility for my actions, pleaded guilty as charged, will serve whatever sentence is imposed, and will never be in law enforcement again.
"I am grateful to my wife and family for standing by me during this dark chapter. I am grateful to all of those who have reached out to offer words of kindness while not condoning my actions. I am grateful for a God of second chances while also being mindful there are consequences for our actions. I am grateful to my colleagues in law enforcement for our time spent together in uniform, especially the time spent seeking justice for those victimized by others and holding offenders to account. It is now time for me to hold myself to account.
"In conclusion, I would like to thank my attorneys who helped me get treatment and stuck with me after charges were filed. When I return from whatever sentence is imposed, I will spend the rest of my life trying to make restitution for breaking the trust of the wonderful people I had the privilege of serving for decades."
The former sheriff is also facing 65 ethics charges from the State Ethics Commission alleging the use of county funds for personal purchases and nepotism.
Wright also faced additional state charges, but 10th Circuit Solicitor Micah Black announced Wednesday that Wright will no longer face those charges. To read more on that part of the story, click here.
Spartanburg’s former sheriff avoids state charges ahead of federal hearing
Chuck Wright's history with the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office
Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright resigns from office
SPARTANBURG — Several holiday shows are coming to Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium in November to kick off another festive season.“Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” takes center stage on Nov. 22 at the auditorium. On Nov. 26, “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol” will be on display."If that’s not enough, several benefits will be held at the FR8yard in downtown Spartanburg including Flannel Fest on Nov. 7 and a Fall Oyster Roast on Nov. 13. Live shows will be also featu...
SPARTANBURG — Several holiday shows are coming to Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium in November to kick off another festive season.
“Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” takes center stage on Nov. 22 at the auditorium. On Nov. 26, “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol” will be on display."
If that’s not enough, several benefits will be held at the FR8yard in downtown Spartanburg including Flannel Fest on Nov. 7 and a Fall Oyster Roast on Nov. 13. Live shows will be also featured at The Fretwell throughout the month.
Here’s what to see in November.
What: Local folk yokels The Smokey Beans is a father-son duo that plays mountain music adaptations of songs from the ‘60s, ‘70s and beyond.
When: Saturday, Nov. 1, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Fretwell, 101 Fretwell St., Spartanburg
Price: Free
More info: fretwellspartanburg.com
What: Lizzie is a rock musical that reimagines the infamous story of Lizzie Borden with scorching vocals and a thunderous punk rock score. This event features general admission seating and is 90 minutes long.
When: Saturday, Nov. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 2, at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Wilson Hall - Laird Studio Theater at Converse University, 580 E. Main St., Spartanburg
Price: $24
What: Here’s your chance to sing on the FR8yard stage. Join your friends at FR8yard for a fun, family-friendly evening of karaoke
When: Sunday, Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: FR8yard, 125 E. Main St., Spartanburg
Price: Free
More info: fr8yard.com
What: A music festival benefitting Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas. Flannel Fest is a weekend long celebration of Fall with original music, food and libations curated by Marc Higgins and in loving memory of bandmate Don McGraw.
When: Friday, Nov. 7 through Sunday, Nov. 9.
Where: FR8yard, 125 E. Main St., Spartanburg
Price: Free
More info: fr8yard.com
What: Matthew Kelly is a lighthearted, down-to-earth songwriter who blends past and present tones. A collection of jazzy original songs and unique cover songs from crowd favorite artists.
When: Saturday, Nov. 8, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Fretwell, 101 Fretwell St., Spartanburg
Price: Free
What: Fall Oyster Roast benefitting The Cancer Association of Spartanburg and Cherokee counties. Oysters will be served with all the fixin’s. Live entertainment will be included at the event. Ground Level and Upper Deck tickets are available.
When: Thursday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m.
Where: FR8yard, 125 E. Main St., Spartanburg
Price: Starting at $50
More info: fr8yard.com
What: Chris Duque and Jon Miller perform together as The Duke and Miller Duo. Their dynamic guitar-driven musical act is known for its soulful sound as part of emotionally rich performances.
When: Friday, Nov. 14, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Fretwell, 101 Fretwell St., Spartanburg
Price: Free
More info: fretwellspartanburg.com
What: Share the joy of “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” with family and friends. A great holiday experience featuring an international cast, whimsical puppetry and opulent costumes and sets.
When: Saturday, Nov. 22, 3 p.m.
Where: Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, 385 N. Church St., Spartanburg
Price: Starting at $47.35
More info: crowdpleaser.com
What: Right Angle Entertainment and Paul T. Couch present the national tour of “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol,” a heartwarming musical featuring songs written by 11-time GRAMMY winner Dolly Parton and book by David H. Bell.
When: Wednesday, Nov. 26, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, 385 N. Church St., Spartanburg
Price: Tickets start at $58.15
More info: crowdpleaser.com
What: Danny Grayshock has recorded two solo albums, “Shade Of Gray” and “Secondhand Fool.” Danny is currently working on his next solo album soon to be released.
When: Tuesday, Nov. 28, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Fretwell, 101 Fretwell St., Spartanburg
Price: Free