As we all know termites are tiny insects that can cause big problems for homes. They can eat away at the wood in your house and cause much damage. Homeowners insurance usually doesn’t cover termite damage but still, there are some situations when home insurance covers termite damage. Let’s briefly explore does home insurance cover termites. if yes when does home insurance cover termites and when doesn’t home insurance cover termite damage? The experts of styleofhome.com will also share some important tips & tricks to prevent termite damage to your home.
Does Home Insurance Cover Termites?
Homeowners’ insurance usually doesn’t cover termite damage. If you live in Texas, you should know that many top home insurance companies in Texas also do not cover termite damage. Insurance companies expect you to prevent pest problems. If your policy doesn’t mention insects, it probably won’t cover termite damage.
Insurance companies won’t cover damage caused by neglect or slow damage over time. They also won’t cover damage to personal belongings. If they do cover termite damage, it’s usually only for the home’s structure and attached buildings, like a garage.
When Does Home Insurance Cover Termites?
There are some cases where insurance companies for homes might cover termite damage. If the termites cause another problem that’s covered by your policy, you might be able to get that fixed via insurance. Below are two cases when home insurance might cover termites.
In the case of a sudden event like a pipe bursting or a storm damaging your roof, which attracts termites. The insurance may cover the damage from the storm and the resulting termite infestation.
In another case, if termites damage wires and cause a fire, the fire damage might be covered. But you’d still have to pay for any remaining termite damage.
Therefore, it is always suggested to check your policy and talk to your agent to see if you’re covered in situations like this.
When Doesn’t Home Insurance Cover Termites?
As we’ve discussed above homeowners insurance usually doesn’t cover termite damage. Home insurance only covers sudden and unexpected problems. Termite damage happens slowly and can be prevented with regular maintenance. That’s why, home insurance doesn’t cover it.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners(NAIC), insurers consider termite infestations preventable, not sudden events. If termites damage your home’s wood but don’t affect anything else, insurance won’t cover it. So, you can’t buy separate termite insurance. You’ll have to pay for repairs yourself.
How To Prevent Termite Damage To Your Home?
Now it is up to you to stop termite damage to your home. You don’t have to worry as it’s not a big thing to do. You just have to protect your home from termites by getting it inspected regularly.
Signs For Termite Damage
You can look out for these signs of termite damage in your home.
- Wood damage with maze-like patterns.
- Cracks and small holes in wood and walls.
- Dropped wings from swarmer termites.
- Sagging floors or ceilings.
- Muddy tunnels near the foundation.
- Hollow sounding wood when tapped.
- Actual termites (looking like flying ants).
- Tiny droppings that look like salt and pepper.
If you notice any of these signs, you might have a termite problem. You can fix them with the help of a professional or by yourself.
Steps To Prevent Termites
Termites are attracted to humid and moist environments. They can enter your homes through foundation cracks, small openings, loose pipes, and gutters. You can easily prevent termite damage to your home by following the below steps.
- Seal cracks in foundations
- Fix leaky faucets, roofs, and gutters
- Keep firewood and plants away from your home
- Consider adding a physical barrier around your home if you live in an area with high termite risk
If termites are found, act fast to prevent further damage. Regular checks and maintenance can save your home from termite damage. You can also use natural woodlice repellent and beetle deterrent to get rid of woodlice and beetles in your home.
Conclusion
Home insurance usually doesn’t cover termite damage. Check your home regularly to find termites early and avoid big repair costs. We hope the above information has solved your query regarding does home insurance cover termites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Can I Prevent Termite Damage?
You can prevent termite damage by reducing moisture, storing termite food sources away from the house, fixing water leaks, and sealing entry points.
What is a Termite Bond?
A termite bond is a contract with a pest control company that guarantees termite prevention measures and may cover damage repair.
What Does Termite Damage Look Like?
Look out for these signs of termite damage like warped or buckled wood, swollen floors and ceilings, water damage-like spots, maze-like patterns in walls or furniture, or a musty smell, like mildew or mold.
How Do You Determine If You Have Termites?
Look for winged insects coming out of the soil or wood. You might also notice their discarded wings near doors or windowsills. That’s because termites are attracted to light and often enter and exit through these spots.
How To Get Rid of Termites in The House?
You can use boric acid, heat, liquid nitrogen, orange oil, or spot wood treatment. However, keep in mind that these methods might not be as effective as hiring a professional pest control service to treat your termite problem.