Do home warranties cover termites?

What termite services does a home warranty cover?

While it’s uncommon, a few home warranty companies cover termites. Termite control may be part of a pest control package as an add-on or upgrade. This means you’ll need to pay more for your policy if you want it.

Also, just because termite coverage is in your home warranty doesn’t mean the company will cover repairs due to termite damage. Usually, these plans only cover termite extermination.

Some other pests that may be covered in a home warranty pest control package include:

• Roaches
• Ground beetles
• Ants
• Millipedes and centipedes
• Mice
• Rats
• Crickets
• Earwigs
• Silverfish
• Pill bugs and sow bugs
• Clover Mites
• Scorpions
• Spiders

Potential exclusions to termite home warranty coverage

Home warranties that cover termites can be helpful, but it's good to remember they're not all the same. Some may cover things that others won’t. Here’s a look at what you might encounter:

• Termite control coverage usually only applies to the main house. Things like decks, fences and other outdoor structures might not be under the coverage umbrella.
• There may be a limit on how much the home warranty company will shell out for termite control. These coverage caps are pretty standard in home warranty agreements.
• Your claim may be denied if the infestation existed before you signed up for a plan.
• Your plan may only cover certain kinds of termites.

What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover termites

Notice a lack of termite coverage in your home warranty contract? It might be worth calling the company to see if you can include it in your policy. If they don't offer pest control and your contract is nearing its end, switching to a different provider could be a smart move, especially if termite management is your priority.

Alternatively, you could look into local extermination services. Many companies specialize in termite control and offer contracts that focus on termite prevention and pest damage. This could provide an added layer of protection and peace of mind for your home.

Bottom line

Opting for pest control coverage as part of your home warranty package can be a real money-saver, helping you avoid costly repairs down the line by nipping potential termite issues in the bud. It's worth noting that pest control (including termite control) isn't typically a standard feature in home warranty plans, but some providers include it.

Before you commit to a plan, it's a good idea to check if pest control coverage is available and get the details on what exactly is covered. This ensures you're fully informed and can make a choice that best protects your home and wallet.