However, there are some situations where a homeowners policy may cover residual termite infestation damage. For example, if a support beam is damaged by termites and a structure connected to that beam, like a wall or roof, falls, your home insurance may cover the cost of repairing that structure. But it’s important to know that the home insurance policy will not typically cover the cost of repairing the damaged beam.
How can you protect your home from termite damage?
To help keep your home free of termites, have it inspected annually or more often if you live in a neighborhood know to have a termite problem. If you’re buying a home, make sure it was inspected for termites. For additional protection, buy a termite bond through a pest control company. A termite bond typically states that the pest control company will inspect for signs of termites and treat your home at fixed intervals, and if termite damage occurs during the time the bond covers, the company will help pay for repairs. This can prevent you from paying thousands of dollars out of pocket for structural damage after an infestation.
If your home insurance policy doesn’t cover pest damage, or you are frustrated with the way your provider handled your claim about pests in your home, give an expert a call. Licensed agents can help you shop around and find a home insurance policy that gives you all of the coverage you need without overpaying.
Ask the insurance agent to help you compare quotes and policies from different insurance providers. Find out if the homeowners policy you’re considering covers termite damage, flood damage (some companies require you to purchase a separate policy for flood insurance), and damage from broken pipes. If the standard policy does not offer the coverage you need, there may be riders you can add for an additional premium.
Before making any final decisions on your insurance company, it is important to learn as much as you can about your local insurance providers, and the coverages they offer. Call your local insurance agent to clear up any questions that you might have. Questions to consider asking include, “What is the best coverage plan for me/my family/my situation?” “What are the minimum coverage requirements in my state and what form of coverage do you recommend?” “Do you guys offer any bundle discounts if I take out both my auto insurance and home insurance with you?” and “What is the average rate of insurance quotes you guys offer?”
Before making any big insurance decisions, use our free tool to compare insurance quotes near you. It’s simple, just plug in your zip code and we’ll do the rest!