Termites are highly destructive creatures. They can cause over $5 billion worth of damage every year in the United States. The 2025 PCT State of the Termite Control Market survey found that over 52% of pest management professionals (PMPs) reported a growth in termite revenue at their companies in the three years prior to early 2025.
The damages they cause can be expensive and stressful. And when insurance companies deny or limit your coverage, the burden of handling the costs on your own can be enormous.
If such cases happen, just know that you can take legal action against pest control companies that failed to treat your home or if they breached a bond. According to a termite damage lawyer in Georgia, dealing with insurance disputes and working toward getting the compensation you deserve can be hard if you don’t have a lawyer by your side.
So, when do you really need a termite damage claims lawyer?
Understanding Your Insurance Policy Coverage
When spotting termite damage, it is important that you understand your insurance policy to know what is covered and what is not.
Most normal homeowners’ insurance policies come with special considerations for pest damage, and termites are often a confirmed exception.
If the policy does cover termite damage, check the limits and deductibles. You should also make sure you have all damage documented nicely for evidentiary purposes in your claim.
If you feel that the policy has confusing parts, don’t hesitate to call your insurance agent. Knowing your rights and obligations will definitely encourage you to be successful in making a claim.
If your insurer challenges you, contact a lawyer for help.
Signs of Significant Termite Damage
Often, termite damage goes unnoticed until it is severe and costly to repair. There are signs that you can check. If there are mud tubes along the foundation or walls, these are used as tunnels by termites to travel. If tapping on the wood sounds hollow, it is because its interior has been eaten.
Look out for shed wings near windows and doors since termites swarm after mating and shed their wings. Small holes and sagging in wood surfaces could be signs of heavy damage.
If you notice any unexplained structural changes in your home, don’t ignore them. Assess the situation immediately to prevent any further damage.
Denial of Your Claim by the Insurance Company
Discovering signs of termite damage can be alarming, especially if you have done what was necessary to file an insurance claim. You will feel disappointed and frustrated with your claim being denied by an insurance company.
Insurance companies deny claims for any number of reasons, such as lack of proof or exclusion from the policy. You have to look up your policy to see what is covered.
You want to collect your documentation: photographs, estimates of repairs, and similar items. You should not be hesitant to call the adjuster and ask them to explain their decision.
If you feel that your claim was never fairly denied, a lawyer with experience in insurance claims would guide you through this trying period.
Disputes With Pest Control Companies
The dispute may arise with the pest control company over treatment effectiveness or the extent of damage when termite issues are ascertained.
You may sometimes feel that the treatment is ineffective. In some cases, there could even be more damage to the home. That is why it is important to record everything relating to pest control. Keep the contracts, treatment plans, and correspondence.
If you think they did not fulfill their obligations, try to sort it out with the company first. Be firm and assertive about your complaints.
Seek advice from an attorney if you feel you are being ignored or brushed aside. Lawyers will give you options about what is best to do. They can support you in making claims or negotiating. Never hesitate to take a stand for your property’s integrity.
Understanding State Laws and Regulations on Property Damage
In the case of termite problems, knowing the state laws and regulations concerning property damage will be essential. The state laws are the laws concerning property damage claims, including deadlines, documentation requirements, and the parties’ roles.
Knowing them will allow you to determine the calculations for how to go about it. In some states, the landlord is responsible for pest control. In others, the tenant is responsible.
By knowing your rights, you will want to communicate quickly with your insurance company or pest control service.
If these are too much for you to handle, then it may be time for you to consider getting an attorney who specializes in property. They can guide you on how to redress damages due to termites.