Just had an experience with some Rattan Furniture purchased at local major store - critters within. Looks like termites were in the Rattan and after seeing a pile of sawdust appearing under the seattee, called the retailer. They were very willing to replace it and have someone come over and check the house. This furniture sat in the house for two months before it developed into something more serious. It was determined to be something that came in the furniture when it came over. Don't know how you could prevent it however you may want to have Pest control check these types of pieces.