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While many pests like rats, mice, ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and bed bugs can damage your home, termites are among the most destructive. By sheer dollar amount, the damage from a bad termite infestation is unparalleled, as they can ruin walls, floors, roofs, and wooden support materials, potentially requiring massive reconstruction. Other highly destructive pests include rodents, carpenter ants, and bees that build hives within walls. If you spot signs of termites or other pests, you should hire an exterminator immediately.

Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell and are deterred by a variety of scents. Some of the most effective smells for repelling them include peppermint oil, coffee grounds, white vinegar, garlic, cinnamon, rosemary, and predator urine. They also have a strong aversion to capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, making capsaicin-based sprays an effective repellent for areas like gardens or bird feeders. For a DIY solution, you can create a spray from garlic and vinegar and apply it daily. Additionally, squirrels dislike strong, fresh scents, so placing items like strong-smelling soaps or dryer sheets in areas they frequent can also help keep them away.

Typically, bed bugs live for four to six months. However, they can live even longer in cool conditions without any food. Bed bugs breed frequently, giving rise to dozens of babies that can quickly infest your home, so it’s best to keep a vigilant eye out if you suspect bed bugs may be around.

Home warranties typically do not cover pest control services or related damage in their basic plans. However, some companies offer premium plans or limited add-ons that may provide some coverage. These optional coverages often come with limitations, such as dollar caps, maximum payout amounts, or exclusions for specific pests. It is crucial to review the details of your specific home warranty policy to determine if pest control is covered and to understand any associated limitations.