How Much Damage Can Termites Cause?

Dec 21, 2021 | Termite Control

It’s estimated that termites cause billions of dollars worth of damage annually in the United States. While they primarily feed on wood, they can also damage books, insulation, and swimming pool liners and filters. They like to wreak havoc on trees, shrubs, and plants that are in bad health. Termites can infest buildings at any time. This can be particularly troublesome when buying or selling a home. A termite inspection and report are usually required as a condition of sale of a home.

Signs of Damage

When signs of termite damage surface, the infestation has often been there for years with extensive damage already sustained. Some signs of termites in your home include:

• A hollow sound made by tapping on wood with a heavy object
• Painted walls that bubble and peel
• Small entry holes where they tunnel through drywall
• Buckling ceiling and walls
• Appearance of water damage
• Maze-like designs in wood structures
• Mud tunnels on foundations

Significant damage from termites can have an effect on the structural integrity of your home and can even cause ceilings and floors to collapse. Termites can also ruin furniture and flooring.

Damage Costs

One question that many homeowners have is if termite damage is covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy. Unfortunately, in most cases the answer is no. Homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover termite damage or removal because it can usually be prevented through routine home maintenance. However, you should always check with your insurance provider to see what you are and aren’t covered for.

Prevention

Termites can be prevented with scheduled periodic professional inspections which can help identify signs of infestations early. This can help keep repair costs down and the damage to a minimum. Any professional termite control plan should eliminate termites, prevent future termite infestations, and prevent termite damage. If you suspect that you have a termite problem or want to have an inspection done, contact your local pest control company.