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Understanding Termite Damage and Homeowners Insurance

When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Termite Damage?

Termites cause approximately $5 billion in damage to U.S. structures annually, according to the National Pest Management Association. These pests can silently feast on wood, cardboard, carpet, and other materials in your home for months before being detected.

Because termite damage is gradual and preventable through routine maintenance, standard homeowners insurance policies rarely cover it. However, there are specific scenarios where your insurance company might cover some costs associated with termite damage. Let’s explore when that might happen and how to prevent future infestations.

Coverage for Sudden and Accidental Damage

Homeowners insurance typically covers damage that is “sudden and accidental.” This excludes most termite damage, which is usually gradual. However, if the termite infestation is directly related to a covered peril in your policy, your insurer may help pay for repairs.

For instance, if termites chew through wiring and cause a fire, your homeowners insurance may cover the fire damage, as fire is generally a covered peril. Similarly, if a burst pipe creates a moist environment that attracts termites, the resulting damage may be covered since burst pipes are often considered a covered peril.

It’s important to note that homeowners insurance likely won’t cover damage solely related to the pest infestation. You are responsible for removing the termites and preventing future infestations, as these are considered part of routine home maintenance.

Review your policy to understand what’s covered and what’s excluded. Contact your insurance company for explanations if needed.

How to Prevent Termites

Termite damage can be challenging to detect and may go unnoticed for years. By the time you see evidence of these pests, they may have caused significant damage. Here are some preventive measures to keep termites at bay:

• Position gutters, downspouts, and splash blocks so water empties several feet away from your home’s foundation.
• Keep vents free from blockage.
• Repair leaky faucets, roofs, and gutters immediately.
• Turn off outdoor lights during “swarm season,” which varies by region.
• Regularly inspect your property for signs of termites or order a pest inspection once a year.
• Keep plants, shrubs, firewood, and mulch away from your foundation line.
• Remove old stumps close to the home.
• Use only treated wood in your home, deck, and wood fences.

Additionally, be aware of the warning signs of a termite infestation to take action and prevent further damage. Look for:

• Termite swarms
• Termite wings or corpses
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
• Blistered floors
• Bubbling paint
• Pinpoint holes in drywall
• Crumbling, damaged wood
• Small, narrow tunnels made of mud
• Repetitive clicking noises

The Bottom Line

Insurance companies usually won’t cover the costs of repairing termite damage or replacing items destroyed by pests. However, if the termite damage is connected to a covered peril, like a fire or a burst pipe, your insurance company may help cover some repair or replacement costs. It’s best to discuss the details with your insurer to see if you can file a claim.

For any mortgage service needs, contact O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. We are here to assist you with the best mortgage solutions tailored to your needs.

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