Does Home Insurance Cover Pest Control?

Nobody wants to share their home with uninvited pests. Whether it's termites in the walls or mice in the attic, infestations can cause damage quickly and get expensive fast. Unfortunately, home insurance does not cover pest control, except in rare and specific situations. Let’s take a look at pest control coverage and how to prevent an infestation. 

Why Doesn’t Home Insurance Cover Pest Control? 

While homeowners insurance covers events like fire, theft, and vandalism, it doesn't cover everything. In most cases, if you have pests in your home, you are responsible for exterminating them and repairing the resulting damage. 

Insurance companies believe infestations are preventable; therefore, if the problem continues and you don't stop it, the insurer won't offer coverage. You will be responsible for paying for pest control services, including inspections, treatments, and any necessary repairs.

When Does Home Insurance Cover Pest Control?

Depending on the insurance agency and circumstance, there are some exceptions to the “no pest control coverage” rule. Here are the primary examples of covered visits from an exterminator:

• Directly linked to a covered event: If you can prove that a pest infestation was caused by an insurance-covered event, such as severe water damage, it may warrant coverage.

• Secondary damage: Home insurance may also cover secondary damage, like if a raccoon chews through a wire and starts a fire.

• Add-on pest coverage: Some insurance policies offer add-ons for pest-related damage, so it's worth checking with your provider to see if it’s an option for you. That said, even if your policy helps with pest-related damage, it likely won’t cover all costs.

How To Prevent a Pest Infestation in Your Home

Homeowners can easily prevent an infestation and subsequent damage by following these simple guidelines. 

Keep Your Home Tidy

Pests love crumbs, dirty dishes, and clutter. These provide easy access to food and hiding spots, which pests and rodents need to survive and reproduce. Clean up spills, wipe down surfaces, and don't let dishes pile up. Throw out old food and trash, wash your sheets and clothes regularly, and if you have a chimney, keep it capped and cleaned.

A messy yard also invites pests to take up residence near or inside your home. Mow the lawn, bag leaves and debris, and don't pile mulch or firewood too close to the house. Trim trees and branches that touch your home. If you've got bird feeders, be aware that pests love a free meal, too.

Keep Moisture to a Minimum

Leaks and humidity attract termites and mold-loving bugs. Stay alert for standing water or leaks in your basement, attic, and crawlspaces. Fix drips right away and make sure your gutters send water away from your home's foundation to prevent water damage and a resulting pest problem.

Seal All Entry Points

Check any spots where pests could sneak in, including cracks, vents, and gaps. Look for droppings, chewed materials, or hollowed wood, especially in basements and attics. If you want professional help warding off an infestation, hire an extermination company in your area for guidance in sealing entry points and exterminating any pests.