Are termites covered on my homeowners insurance?

The formosan termite in New Orleans can cause major damage to your home but is it a covered claim?

My house in New Orleans was recently attacked by a swarm of termites.

A few even found their way under my door and were flying around before I went to bed.

Yes one of the first phone calls I made when I moved in was a termite inspection contract.

I know New Orleans residents are under attack every year and there is nothing we can do about it.

Swarming season in New Orleans is April to July.

Termites have been labeled the silent destroyer of homes in our area.

When you discover termite damage, it may be too late.

Before you even consider making a homeowners claim,  

you should be able to recognize a few common signs you have termite damage

FLOOR DAMAGE

Termites can damage laminate flooring and baseboards.

If you think your floor feels spongy or soft,  take a look underneath.

WALL DAMAGE

Cracks or tracks in your sheetrock is a sure sign you have termite damage.

Termites love cellulose found in wood within walls.

CEILING DAMAGE

Wooden support beams and rafters in the attic are at risk.

Look for tracks or cracks in your ceiling and take a look in your attic.

SLAB OR FOUNDATION

Although your slab is concrete, they can get in between the slab and your wooden floor joists.  

Homes built on piers with a crawlspace are at a greater risk because there is no concrete slab barrier.

WINDOW FRAMES

If your windows are sticking or no longer open, 

the termites may have tunneled underneath are eating away at the window frames.

ROOF DAMAGE

Broken roof tiles hold moisture and attract termites to the wood decking underneath.  

Replace any damaged or water-soaked roofing tiles.

If I discover I have termite damage should I make a New Orleans Homeowners insurance claim?

The fundamental principle of covered claims on a homeowners policy is simple.

When in doubt ask yourself one question.

“Was the damage sudden and accidental?”

If not, more than likely the claim would be denied.

Termite damage is not sudden and accidental.

Termites can destroy a house and cause major damage over an extended period of time.

Common Claims not covered on a home insurance policy.

• Termite Damage
• Wear and Tear 
• Maintenance

A homeowners insurance policy is not a home warranty policy.

What should you do?

If you have not already purchased a Termite contract from a local Pest Control company,

you should.

Most contracts with Pest Control companies will come out and treat your house for termites.

If they discover termites, you may be able to get them to repair the damage.

You need to read the contract for the conditions that apply to you.

If you don’t meet certain conditions, it may void the contract.

Most Pest Control companies will give you a free inspection so now is the time to start the process of protecting your house from the termite swarm

and don’t rely on your New Orleans Homeowners policy to respond to a termite damage claim.