Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Termite Damage?

Short answerHomeowners insurance generally doesn't cover termite damage or the cost of treatment. The Texas and California insurance departments both list termites among things home policies don't pay for, and ISO's October 2000 sample form excludes insects. Treat this as a maintenance cost, but read your policy and ask your state insurance department about any exceptions.

What regulators say

Texas's insurance department says that if insects chew on your house, your policy won't pay for repairs, and it names termite damage specifically. California lists termites, insects, rats and mice among items generally not covered. The Insurance Information Institute says the policy won't cover infestation from termites or other pests, and treats prevention as the homeowner's job.

Could there be an exception?

The sample HO-3 form (ISO's October 2000 edition) has one narrow exception: it covers collapse of a building caused by hidden insect damage you didn't know about. Your form may differ, so ask your insurer in writing.

What you can do

NAHB's 2007 study says termite-proofing done during construction lasts about 12 years if the chemical barriers stay undisturbed, so an older treatment may no longer be protecting the house. Ask a licensed pest control company about an inspection.

Check your policy

Read your own policy, including any endorsements, and ask your agent or insurer how it applies to your situation. Your state insurance department can answer questions about coverage and take complaints. This page describes general patterns, not what your policy will pay.

Common questions

Does insurance pay for termite treatment?

Generally no. The sources here treat pests as a maintenance issue, so plan on paying for treatment yourself.

Does a home warranty cover termites?

We couldn't confirm a general answer. Read that contract's exclusions. California's insurance department notes home protection contracts are not insurance.