Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Termite Damage? What You Need to Know

Termites may be tiny, but they can cause big problems for your home. These pests cost homeowners billions of dollars every year in damage. But here’s the surprise: most homeowners insurance won’t cover termite damage. Let’s break down why that is and what you can do to protect your Long Island home.

Why Isn’t Termite Damage Covered?

Homeowners insurance is there to protect you from sudden, unexpected events—like fires or storms. Termite damage, however, is seen as something that can be prevented. Insurance companies consider it a “maintenance issue,” meaning it’s your responsibility to take care of it.

So if termites invade, fixing the damage and covering the costs fall to you—not your insurance.

How Termite Damage Can Affect Your Home

Termites silently eat away at wood, and over time, they can create serious problems:

• Weakening Your Home: They can destroy the wood that supports your walls, floors, and ceilings.

• Expensive Repairs: Fixing termite damage can cost thousands of dollars.

• Lower Resale Value: Visible damage can hurt your home’s value if you plan to sell.

How to Protect Your Home from Termites

While insurance won’t help with termite damage, you can take steps to keep them away:

1. Get Regular Inspections: Hire a pest control expert to check your home every year.

2. Eliminate Moisture: Fix leaks and make sure water doesn’t collect around your home—termites love damp areas.

3. Keep Wood Off the Ground: Don’t let firewood or wooden structures touch the soil near your home.

4. Invest in Prevention Plans: Some pest control companies offer plans to stop infestations before they happen.

When to Call the Experts

If you think you might have termites, act fast. These pests can cause damage quickly, and the longer you wait, the worse it gets. A professional pest control service can inspect your home, get rid of the termites, and help prevent them from coming back.