Is termite insurance worth for a 2 year old house?

Question

Hello fellow BPers..I have a rental in Austin, Texas that was built 2 years back. The builder treated it for termites. The warranty on that treatment is expiring soon unless we extend it for another year by paying $175 which covers up-to 100k in damages should they occur. Is it worth buying this insurance for a new house that is treated? Is termite damage common in Austin, Texas?

Jim Cummings · Answer

@Suvarna Joshi. I suspect the "Termite Insurance" policy is just another way to get a few bucks from you. Establish a relationship with a Termite / Pest Control Company, and have them do an inspection every 12 -18 months. Cost about $100 or less.

Termites have a continuing presence in the soil in Austin area. Main key point is prevent conducive conditions allowing or encouraging termites to invade your property. Depending upon size of property a complete treatment would cost around $500 - $750.

Shawn C. · Answer

I never even heard of termite insurance before. I wouldn't bother. Sounds like a scam to me.

Tim Kaminski · Answer

@Suvarna Joshi I work for a home builder in Tampa Fl we borate treat all of the wood we use in direct contact with concrete on our home. Block on bottom, wood frame on top. Just recently got subterranean termites on a duplex we built 2/3 years ago. Have been getting it treated quarterly.  The warranties are good to have when you find those mud trails.

In Florida they are a real problem, not sure about your market. Most termite companies will warrant against subterranean but not dry woods, as they fly and they cannot control that. If it’s common in your area then yes it is worth it IMO to have that peace of mind that it will be taken care of professionally when they do come.

My personal duplex, 100 yr old wood frame home, had evidence of dry wood termites and I refused to get professionals involved. Did DIY methods. Trenches around the house, Termidor between the studs etc. Still came back. Set up orkin to handle everything for $300/yr. They sprayed in the attic, UNDER the crawl space, between all the studs and they come out for free if any evidence is found between services. The peace of mind to have that off my hands is well worth $300/yr.

Caleb Heimsoth · Answer

@Suvarna Joshi. I wouldn’t bother with this insurance.  You can just test for terminates occasionaly

Steve Hall · Answer

@Suvarna Joshi

Did you read the insurance contract cover to cover? I'll bet it does not cover what you think it does...

Aaron Gordy · Answer

I have never heard of termite insurance either. I wouldn't bother. I would get it checked out every few years, if you are concerned. It only costs a 100 or so.

Suvarna Joshi · Answer

@Caleb Heimsoth- ok thank you for your reply

Suvarna Joshi · Answer

@Steve Hall no I have not read it entirely, but it sounded like a rider. I am sure there is a fine print somewhere that I need to read.

Is termite insurance worth for a 2 year old house?

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