Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Squirrel Damage?

Homeowners insurance policies offer financial protection against unexpected property damage. These policies typically cover the home’s structure and personal belongings, safeguarding against various unforeseen events. Understanding a policy’s specific terms and conditions is important to know what types of damage are covered.

Understanding Animal Damage Coverage

Homeowners insurance policies generally categorize coverage as “named perils” or “open perils.” Named perils policies specifically list covered damage or events, excluding anything not listed. Open perils policies cover all damage unless a specific exclusion is stated.

Insurers differentiate between sudden, accidental damage and gradual damage or damage from neglect. For example, a sudden event like a tree falling on a house might be covered, unlike long-term roof deterioration from lack of maintenance.

Policies often treat damage from wild animals differently than damage from pests or domestic animals. Wild animal damage, if sudden and accidental, may be covered under an open perils policy. However, damage from common pests, including rodents, is typically excluded due to their pervasive nature and the expectation of regular home maintenance.

Specifics of Squirrel Damage Coverage

Homeowners insurance policies rarely provide coverage for damage caused by squirrels. Insurers often classify squirrels as rodents or vermin, and damage from these classifications is a common exclusion in standard policies. This means issues like gnawing on wires, insulation damage, or structural harm from nesting are generally not covered.

Coverage might apply in limited, sudden circumstances under an open perils policy. For example, if a squirrel chews through electrical wiring, causing a fire, the fire damage itself would likely be covered, as fire is a named peril. The policy would not cover the initial wire damage, but the subsequent fire damage.

Most policies exclude damage that occurs gradually or results from long-term infestation. This includes sustained chewing, accumulation of droppings, or contamination. Policies also typically do not cover damage from a homeowner’s failure to maintain the property or address known vulnerabilities, such as unsealed entry points.

Costs for pest removal, like hiring an exterminator or trapping services, are not covered by homeowners insurance. Preventative measures, such as installing screens or sealing cracks, are considered routine home maintenance. Homeowners are generally responsible for managing pest infestations and associated repairs.

Steps After Discovering Squirrel Damage

Upon discovering potential squirrel damage, homeowners should immediately assess the extent of the issue and thoroughly document all observations. This documentation should include clear photographs and videos of the damage, noting the precise location, date of discovery, and any visible entry points used by the animals. Maintaining a detailed log of events is also beneficial for any future discussions.

Preventing additional damage is important. This may involve temporarily sealing obvious entry points with sturdy materials to deter further intrusion before permanent repairs. Taking proactive measures to mitigate ongoing damage demonstrates responsible property management.

Homeowners should then contact their insurance provider to report the damage and understand their policy’s terms. Inquire about the policy’s deductible, the amount the homeowner must pay before coverage begins. The insurer will typically require detailed information about the damage and its discovery.

Obtaining multiple repair estimates from qualified contractors is advisable before any work begins. These estimates provide a clear understanding of repair costs and can be submitted to the insurance company during the claim process. The insurer will then review the claim, potentially send an adjuster to inspect the damage, and make a determination regarding coverage based on the policy’s terms.