Did You Know Termite Damage Is Usually Not Covered By Homeowners Insurance?

Unfortunately, termite damage is usually not covered by homeowner’s insurance because termite damage is considered to be something that is preventable. Therefore, it is important to be proactive in taking preventative measures against termite infestations.

Texas homeowners are often faced with one or two termite species, Formosan termites or Eastern termites. Formosan termite workers can live three to five years which is a long time for a pest to live. And the queens may lay as many as a thousand eggs per day. Eastern termite colonies are not as big as Formosan termite colonies. Termites swarm to establish new colonies. Once they have found a new location to infest, swarmers shed their wings, mate, and start a new colony.

How To Spot An Infestation

Unlike some termites, subterranean termites do not live in the food (wood) they are feeding on. They travel back and forth from their food source to their nest in the ground. You may notice mud tubes they have created up foundation walls, or along basement walls. Formosan termites do not only nest in the ground. Sometimes they create carton nests which can be found on buildings with flat rooftops. Carton nests can also be found in between walls and beneath sinks.

How Homeowners Can Minimize Risks

Eliminating moisture in your home (perhaps from leaky plumbing or air conditioning condensation) can help create an environment that is less attractive to termites. Make sure crawl spaces are properly ventilated. It is also good to keep gutters cleaned out so that water drains properly. And apply weather stripping around all windows and doors. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in your home. There are measures you can take outside of your home that will help keep termites away. For example, do not store firewood near your home and keep it raised off the ground. Remove fallen trees, tree trunks, and other debris from your property.

Formosan subterranean termites can consume up to thirteen ounces of wood in a single day. It doesn’t take long for a colony to do significant damage to a home. This is why it is important to call Cantu Pest Control immediately if you suspect you may have termites. We offer a variety of termite protection plans to meet your individual needs. These plans come with renewable warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Contact us to request a free quote today or to learn more about our home pest control options.