Does Homeowner Insurance Cover Termite Damage?

Homeowner insurance protects against unforeseen events and damage. Understanding your policy is important to know what is covered and what is not, allowing for informed decisions.

Understanding Standard Homeowner Policies and Termite Damage

Standard homeowner insurance policies cover damage from “sudden and accidental” perils like fire, theft, windstorms, hail, explosions, vandalism, and sudden water damage from burst pipes or overflowing appliances. For example, fire damage is typically covered.

In contrast, standard homeowner insurance policies do not cover termite damage. This exclusion is because termite infestations are not considered sudden or accidental. Termites cause gradual damage by consuming wood, which differs from the immediate incidents standard policies cover.

What Standard Policies Do Not Cover

Standard homeowner insurance policies exclude termite damage because insurers classify it as a preventable issue requiring routine home maintenance. Termite infestations are gradual, allowing homeowners to detect and address problems through regular inspections, preventing significant damage.

Insurers expect homeowners to maintain their property and prevent infestations. Damage from neglect, like long-term leaks or pest deterioration, is excluded. Termite damage, often a result of deferred maintenance, falls outside standard policy coverage.

Additional Coverage Options for Pest-Related Issues

While standard homeowner insurance excludes termite damage, some non-standard options offer limited protection, usually with additional costs. In rare circumstances, if termites directly cause a covered peril, like chewing wiring that leads to a fire, the fire damage might be covered. Similarly, if a covered peril, such as a burst pipe, creates moisture leading to an infestation, some resulting damage might be covered, but typically not the termite damage or extermination cost.

Beyond these scenarios, some pest control companies offer “termite bonds” with repair guarantees for new damage after treatment. These agreements vary in terms, duration, and coverage amount, sometimes up to $250,000, and often require annual inspections and specific conditions. Homeowners should review the fine print, as these are distinct from homeowner insurance and may have limitations regarding moisture or construction types.

Steps Following the Discovery of Termite Damage

Discovering termite damage requires immediate action. First, contact professional pest control experts for an inspection to determine the infestation’s extent and species. A professional assessment, typically costing $75-$325, can guide treatment. Do not disturb termites before professional treatment, as this can cause them to scatter and spread.

After termite elimination, assess and address the damage. Document it with photos and videos for repair estimates. Consult professional contractors to evaluate structural integrity and provide repair estimates, which can range from cosmetic to significant structural replacements. Structural repairs, like beams or floor joists, should only occur after termites are eliminated and comply with local building codes.

Homeowners should also identify and address root causes attracting termites, such as moisture issues or wood-to-ground contact. Repairing leaks, improving crawl space ventilation, and removing wood debris can prevent future infestations. Proactive measures and prompt action safeguard property and minimize long-term costs.