Termites can live in the home and cause damage for years before they’re discovered. Unfortunately, when people find they have termites, the pests cause much damage. Furthermore, homeowners insurance is intended to cover accidental and sudden risks and damage; as any pest control company will tell you, termites are not a sudden phenomenon. The cost of removing termites and repairing their damage is typically not covered by your homeowner’s insurance.
Signs Of A Termite Infestation
Insurers typically view termites as avoidable and possibly the result of the homeowner’s negligence. Many home insurance policies exclude termite damage and removal. Termite infestations can be avoided with routine home maintenance, which is the homeowner’s responsibility. There are measures you can take to help prevent infestations in the first place. Here are the signs of termite infestation and why early termite control matters:
Stuck Windows Or Doors
Has there been a door or window that has recently become stuck or difficult to open or close? This is occasionally an early warning sign of a termite infestation. Termites prefer to attack exposed and easily accessible wood, such as window and door frames. As termites eat through the wood, the shelves of your windows and doors may warp, making it difficult to open and close them properly. If you notice these issues, pest control in Woodland Hills can help identify termite activity early.
Hollow Or Blistering Wood
Blistering or hollow-sounding wood can also be a sign of termite activity. Termites usually consume wood from the inside out, leaving a thin veneer of timber or just the paint. When you knock or tap on an area that has termite damage, it will sound hollow or papery. This is because part or all of the timber inside has been eaten away. You may also see unexplained cracks on internal walls.
Damage Under Paint Or Wallpaper
While feeding on corrugated and wood paneling beneath the surface of your walls, termites create tunnels (called termite galleries) and tiny pinholes (called exit holes). They sometimes do this without disturbing the thin coat of paint or wallpaper on the surface, making this damage easier to detect unless it is removed.
Mud Tubes
Besides that, look for mud tubes on your property. Mud tubes resemble narrow veins running along the side of your house. These pipes emerge from the ground and travel to wooded areas. To protect themselves from dry air, termites construct mud tubes. An exterminator in Woodland Hills can inspect these mud tubes and determine whether termites are actively damaging your property.
Termite Discarded Wings And Droppings
Discarded wings left behind are another visible sign of a termite infestation. Swarmers shed their wings after taking flight. Termite droppings, also known as “frass,” are another indicator of termite activity. To avoid buildup, termites eat through the wood, digest it, and push it out of the colony. If you notice these signs, professional pest control in Woodland Hills, CA can help confirm the issue and recommend the right treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover termites?
In most cases, insurance does not cover termite damage because it is usually considered preventable through regular home maintenance.
Are termites covered by insurance?
Termites are usually not covered by insurance since infestations often develop slowly over time rather than from a sudden accidental event.
Are termites covered by home insurance?
Most home insurance policies do not cover termite damage or termite removal. Homeowners are generally expected to prevent infestations through routine inspections and maintenance.
When are termites covered by insurance?
Termites covered by insurance are uncommon, but in some limited situations, coverage may depend on your policy and the exact cause of the damage. Always review your policy or speak with your insurance provider.
Does homeowners insurance cover termites?
Homeowners insurance usually does not cover termites because insurers often classify termite infestations as a maintenance issue rather than sudden property damage.
Conclusion
If you seriously doubt that there is a termite infestation, contact a professional as soon as possible to determine the best treatment strategy. Facility Pest Control offers prompt, friendly, and effective services. We are dedicated to using cutting-edge technology to provide the best solution near you at the most affordable price without sacrificing quality, integrity, or effectiveness.
Worried about termite damage? Contact us today to schedule an inspection and protect your property before the problem gets worse.
Learn more here:
Why Termite Inspection Matters Before Buying a House
What’s The Difference Between Drywood Termites And Subterranean Termites?
