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Understanding How Rodent Damage Affects Home Insurance Coverage

Aug 09, 2023

Home Insurance

Understanding How Rodent Damage Affects Home Insurance Coverage

Rodents are a major annoyance to homeowners. These small animals can infiltrate small cracks in your home, causing much damage. Perhaps you've noticed signs of rodent damage around your home. If you're considering filing an insurance claim, most home insurance policies do not cover rodent damage. Carriers generally believe that these damages could be prevented with proper maintenance. However, there are some exceptions. Here's a closer look.

What Are Potential Rodent Damage?

Rodents pose a serious threat to the interior and exterior of your home. They have strong, rugged teeth that are constantly growing. Rodents constantly chew things to stabilize their teeth. Rodents are capable of eating through wood, drywall, and PVC pipes. Wiring is also an easy target. Rodents love the heat wires generate and are capable of chewing through them within minutes. It will take a little while for rodents to start searching for food and damaging your furniture once they have entered your home.

Rodents are also capable of causing health issues. Rodents may host different germs and bacteria. Research shows that many rodents spread deadly bacteria through their waste and saliva.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Rodent Damage?

Rodent damage is common home insurance policy exclusion except for unique cases. Your policy may cover damages if a rodent chews through your electrical wiring and causes a fire. This scenario also provides coverage due to any smoke damage caused by the fire. Home insurance also covers your home if a rodent destroys pipes attached to any appliances. The damaged pipes may cause those appliances to malfunction. Your home insurance may cover any water damages that arise.

Will Home Insurance Cover Extermination?

Home insurance policies generally do not reimburse for extermination unless the rodents entered your home due to a covered peril. A common example is rodents entering your home due to an opening caused by a natural disaster such as a tornado or hurricane. Your extermination fees are covered in this situation.

What Are the Things to Consider?

While proper home maintenance should keep out uninvited guests, there is still a chance that rodents could force their way in, especially when they seek shelter. You must regularly check your attic and basement for signs like dents or droppings. Make sure that your store food in a secure area. Leaving exposed food in open areas invites unwelcome guests. It's also essential to fill any holes or cracks around the interior of your home.

Secure Your Home with Our Tailored Insurance Policies

Facing rodent infestations can be a nightmare for homeowners, but fret not! At Humble Insurance Group, we've got your back. Our expert team is dedicated to providing the perfect policy to safeguard your home in any rodent-related situation. Rest easy knowing that your property and belongings are protected, allowing you to tackle any challenges confidently. Trust Humble Insurance Group to be your shield against rodents and ensure peace of mind for you and your family. Contact us today or call (425) 226-8221 to find the ideal insurance solution tailored just for you!

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