Imagine sipping your morning coffee in sunny Arizona or admiring the fall leaves in Massachusetts when you suddenly notice tiny holes appearing in your wooden furniture or floor.
The culprit? Termites.
These nasty critters cause $5 billion in property damage annually in the U.S., and they don’t discriminate by location. They’re found all over the United States, leaving homeowners reeling and wondering, does insurance cover termite damage?
Let’s explore the details.
Does Insurance Cover Termite Damage? The Short Answer
The short answer is no, standard homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover termite damage.
Why? Insurance companies generally view termites as a preventable problem, not a sudden or accidental event, which is what homeowners insurance is designed to protect against.
However, there are rare exceptions where your policy might come to the rescue (we’ll discuss that in a bit).
And unfortunately, termites don’t stop at furniture–their destructive appetite can weaken your foundation, walls, and even wiring.
Without intervention, their damage can compromise a home’s integrity, leading to expensive repairs that aren’t covered by your insurance, but that could have been avoided through regular pest control checks.
When Insurance Might Cover Termite Damage
It’s highly uncommon, but your homeowners insurance may kick in under two very specific circumstances.
Both scenarios depend entirely on your insurance provider’s policy and their investigation into the “proximate cause” of the damage.
A Covered Peril is Triggered by Damage
In some cases, your insurance will cover termite damage if “a covered peril” occurs as a result of a termite infestation.
For example, if termites chew through wiring and spark a fire, your policy might cover fire-related repairs.
A Home Collapses Unexpectedly
If a homeowner was unaware of a termite infestation and their house collapses, insurers may cover rebuilding costs. However, if there’s evidence the infestation was neglected, the claim will likely be denied.
Why Termite Damage Is Avoidable
Termites aren’t like tornadoes or hail–their attacks are slow and methodical.
Your insurance company expects homeowners like you to take proactive measures to prevent infestations. There are a few steps you can take to prevent termite damage (and claims that ultimately won’t be covered).
For example, you should:
- Keep soil and wood separate to avoid creating easy access to food for termites.
- Fix leaks in your roof, pipes, and gutters to reduce moisture that attracts termites.
- Maintain annual pest inspections to identify lurking problems early.
If you choose to ignore these steps, the responsibility will be placed solely on your shoulders as a homeowner. This makes it even less likely that your insurance will cover any damages.
How to Handle Termite Problems
Does insurance cover termite damage? Unfortunately, you now know the answer is generally a resounding no. Yet discovering termites can feel overwhelming, so here’s what to do instead of relying on your insurance coverage.
First, call a professional pest control service, like us at proof. Pest Control, to assess the infestation and start treatment immediately.
After extermination, hire a contractor to evaluate structural damage and make necessary repairs.
Finally, consider investing in preventative treatments or a termite bond, a service plan offered by pest control companies that provides ongoing monitoring and protection.
Protect Your Home With proof. Pest Control
Don’t wait until your house creaks and crumbles. At proof. Pest Control, we specialize in prevention and protection, ensuring your home is pest-free and structurally sound. With our comprehensive, one-of-a-kind approach to pest control, you’ll have peace of mind all year round.
Get in touch with us today. We serve homeowners nationwide, including Arizona, Massachusetts, New York, Utah, and more.
Did You Know?
Termites are most active in the spring and summer months, especially after rain. Preventative treatments applied during these seasons can significantly reduce your odds of infestation.
FAQ
Does homeowners insurance cover termite repairs?
No, in almost all cases. Insurance sees termites as a preventable issue and not a sudden, accidental incident.
How can I prevent termites?
Eliminate moisture accumulation around your home, keep soil and wood separated, and schedule annual pest inspections.
What are termite bonds?
A termite bond is a service and warranty plan provided by pest control companies that offer ongoing surveillance, prevention, and treatment.
How much does termite damage repair cost?
Depending on the severity, repairs can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars. Extermination costs can add to the total expense.
What’s the most common sign of termites?
Look for mud tubes on your foundation, hollowed-out wood, or discarded wings from swarming termites.