As spring arrives in Fargo-Moorhead, so do unwanted pests. Warmer temperatures increase activity for ants, termites, rodents, and other critters that can damage your home.
While home insurance protects against many types of property damage, pest infestations are usually not covered under a standard policy.
Here’s what homeowners need to know about springtime pests and home insurance.
Does Fargo Home Insurance Cover Pest Damage?
Most home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by pests, including insects, rodents, and wildlife.
Insurance companies consider pest infestations to be a preventable maintenance issue, meaning homeowners are responsible for handling the problem before it causes major damage.
However, there are some exceptions:
- Sudden or accidental damage caused by pests – If a rodent chews through electrical wiring and starts a house fire, the resulting fire damage may be covered, even though the rodent damage itself is not.
- Structural damage caused by animals – If a raccoon or squirrel suddenly enters your home and causes destruction, your policy might cover it, depending on the circumstances.
- Damage from insured events – If pests enter your home due to a covered disaster (like a fallen tree or storm damage), repairs may be included in your policy.
Common Spring Pests That Cause Home Damage
Some of the most problematic spring pests include:
- Termites – These silent destroyers can cause extensive structural damage before homeowners even realize they’re present.
- Carpenter Ants – Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood, but they tunnel through it to build nests, weakening structures over time.
- Rodents (Mice and Rats) – These pests chew through insulation, wiring, and even plumbing, leading to fire hazards and costly repairs.
- Wasps and Bees – While they don’t cause structural damage, large nests in or around your home can create safety concerns.
- Wildlife (Raccoons, Squirrels, Bats) – If they enter your attic or crawlspace, they can cause significant damage to insulation and wiring.
Preventing Pest Damage This Spring
Since home insurance won’t cover most pest-related damage, the best approach is prevention.
Here’s how you can protect your home:
- Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around doors, windows, and vents to prevent entry.
- Trim tree branches away from the roof, clear debris, and remove standing water to deter pests.
- Keep pantry items in sealed containers and clean up crumbs or spills promptly.
- Look for droppings, gnaw marks, wood shavings, or mud tubes (a sign of termites).
- Professional pest inspections can catch problems before they become costly.
When to Call Your Fargo Home Insurance Provider
If pests have caused damage to your home, review your policy to determine whether any repairs might be covered.
If you experience:
- A fire caused by chewed electrical wires
- Water damage due to rodents chewing through plumbing
- Damage from a covered peril (like a storm) that allowed pests inside
Your insurance provider may be able to help with repairs. If you’re unsure, Fargo Moorhead Insurance can review your policy and help you understand what’s covered.
Protect Your Home This Spring
Pest damage isn’t just a nuisance—it can lead to expensive repairs that home insurance won’t cover. Taking preventative steps now can help protect your home and avoid unexpected costs.
Need a policy review? Contact Fargo Moorhead Insurance today to make sure your home has the protection it needs this spring.