How to Get Compensation for Termite Property Damage

Did you know that in the U.S., termites cause approximately $5 billion in damage to structures annually, according to pest control companies like Orkin? It's estimated that termites damage around 600,000 homes each year. Miami, Florida, is often cited as a major termite-infested city.

Termites can slowly eat through wood, and you might not even notice until it's too late. If the termite damage was caused by the carelessness of others, you can seek compensation. For example, your builder, landlord, or property seller didn't tell you properly that the house is in danger of getting termites.

Termite damage lawyer Thomas F. Campbell says customers of pest management companies pay the price if the company lied about what it could do. Termite infestation victims are often unaware of the signs of fraud or how to hold these companies accountable. An experienced termite damage lawyer is the ideal resource in this situation.

This article will tackle the proper steps to take if you want to be compensated for termite property damage.

Assessing the Damage and Documenting Evidence

Prioritize finding out how much damage termites have done to your property before evaluating the situation.

Walk inside and inspect for possible signs of termite infestation. These signs can include mud tunnels and damaged wood furniture. Check for any shed wings in your house. Pay attention to areas such as basements, attics, and the spaces around windows for moisture build-ups, since these conditions typically attract this type of pest.

After finding the damage, document every detail concerning it well. Take clear photos of the damaged areas and make detailed notes on the level of damage. You can use these pictures if you are planning on seeking compensation.

Keep all records of maintenance undertaken and pest control treatments provided to the premises. This documentation will be handy to support your claim as you move to the next requisite action.

Understanding Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

After recording the property loss, find out how the homeowners' insurance covers the matter of termite infestation.

Most policies don't cover termite damage, as it's seen as neglect. There are certain policies that might offer some limited coverage for damage caused by other covered perils, like fire or wind.

Search your policy for any exclusions concerning pest infestation or anything that remotely relates to it. If in doubt, get in touch with your insurance agent to verify if coverage applies.

Ask about exclusions or endorsements. These steps will help you decide how to compensate for property damage.

Filing a Claim for Termite Damage

The procedure for claiming termite damage is difficult to begin with, but it could become easier if you knew the steps.

Collect relevant documents. These documents include the homeowners' occupancy insurance policy and documentation related to the claim, such as photographs and inspection reports.

Notify the insurance company about the damage and procure the application for the claim after the first contact. Write down all details in the claim form. Do not forget to attach the required documents. Record the kinds of damage and repairs needed for the property.

Once your claim has been filed, you will want to watch the progress as closely as possible. Write down everything you discuss with your insurer.

You can ask as many questions as you wish and seek assistance if it becomes necessary to get your claim all the attention it needs.

Exploring Legal Options Against Negligent Parties

If you believe that the termite damage resulted from somebody else's negligence, you can pursue a case to recover compensation.

Negligence can include documents, photographs, and witness statements as evidence to assist in the preparation of the claim.

An attorney for property damage evaluation can analyze your case and advise you through litigation.

You may write a demand letter to the accountable party explaining your claims and what you expect in compensation. If they do not agree to settle, your attorney will discuss other possible measures, which may involve suing.

Preventative Measures and Future Protection

You need to take steps to reduce the chances of new termite attacks in your house.

Inspect your residential building for signs of mud tubes or wood that sounds hollow when tapped. These signs indicate the existence of termite infestation in the property. Remove yard debris and aged lumber to reduce the risk of creating conditions that are suitable for termites.

Make sure drainage around your foundation is sealed well to prevent the buildup of moisture. More moisture can encourage more infestations. Use site-treated lumber while constructing and install steel mesh or sand barriers to protect against termites.

Make a plan for routine pest inspections to catch early termite issues. Conduct regular treatments for termite control so that your house is in a safe condition.

Strictly adhering to the guidelines outlined in this article will help you save money and lower the risk of termite problems in your property.