Are Termite Protection Plans Worth It? (Find Out Now!)

Stacy Randall
by Stacy Randall

Termites are a common affliction that many homeowners face. Despite being commonplace pests, termites are more than a mere nuisance as the damage they impose can be irreparable and expensive. Fortunately, you can safeguard against the devastation and high cost of termite destruction, often making termite protection plans worth it.

The upfront costs of termite protection may seem highly-priced, making you wonder if termite protection plans are worth it. However, termite damage is a serious issue and these fees pale in comparison to the exorbitant costs of termite repair. There are several termite warranty options available allowing homeowners to pick the plan that best suits their individual needs.

However, like many insurance policies, termite protection plans may come at a high rate. Therefore, some homeowners may wonder whether these warranties are truly worthwhile.

Do You Need Pest Control Services?

Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.

Is My House At Risk For Termite Infestation?

Termite infestation can affect any residence. However, several factors can make a home especially vulnerable to invasions and damages.

Termite infestations occur most frequently in residences with structures such as wooden fences. Furthermore, it is more common for termites to attack the exterior of a home than the interior. However, termites can and do invade the inside of a house and cause significant damage.

Termites cause damage by eating away at wood and wood products. However, it is not only homes built primarily of wood that are susceptible to termite infestations. For example, these pests are capable of eating through plaster, metal siding, and other materials.

The age of a house is also a significant factor in a home’s ability to withstand termite infestations. Studies show that houses younger than 30 years face the lowest risk of termite attack. Conversely, houses older than 70 years face the highest risk of termite attack.

Most importantly, houses with prior termite infestations in the past face the highest risk for recurring or permanent infestation. Therefore, if you live in a home that fits this description, it can certainly make a termite protection plan worth it.

What Kind Of Damage Can Termites Inflict On My Home?

Termites can inflict irreversible damage on the structural integrity of your house. In extreme cases, they can cause ceilings and floors to collapse. Even in relatively mild scenarios, termites can destroy your home’s interior by eating away at your house’s walls, furniture, and flooring.

It can be challenging to identify a termite infestation in your home until the damage becomes visible. It is important to contact an exterminator immediately after noticing any potential signs of termite damage. A professional can help you with your infestation and get you set up on a termite protection plan.

Signs Of Termite Damage

  • Buckling wood
  • Swollen floors and ceilings 
  • Visible mazes in walls or furniture
  • Scents of mold or mildew
  • Cracks in veneer 
  • Maze-like tunnels in wood
  • The appearance of water damage 

How Expensive Is It To Repair Termite Damage?

Termites and similar pests result in approximately $30 billion worth of damages every year. The average homeowner with termite damage will have to spend upwards of $3,000 in structural and cosmetic repairs. A good rule of thumb states that significant damages will cost an estimated $100 per foot to repair.

The expenses of termite repair include removing and disposing of damaged material and cleaning and repairing structural framing. Planning, acquiring materials, setting up, and cleaning up can all be costly factors of repairing termite damage.

How Expensive Is Termite Treatment?

Termite treatment is an important aspect of preventing future infestations and further damages. The average termite treatment ranges from $200 to $900.

Types Of Termite Treatments

There are several different methods to treat termite infestations.

  • Chemical Treatments — Chemical treatment consists of liquid soil treatments that go on a home’s exterior. This treatment is most effective for termite infestations that haven’t yet invaded the interior of a home. Chemical treatments cost approximately $13 to $16 per linear foot. 
  • Bait treatments — This treatment consists of poison bait stations installed around the home. The termites will eat the poison and carry it back for their colonies to eat, as well. These treatments are not as precise as chemical treatments and are more expensive as they often require multiple visits. 
  • Tenting Treatments — Tenting treatments are necessary for larger, more pervasive infestations. With tenting, the entire structure is enclosed in a large tent while termite-killing chemicals are released. Tenting is priced by either a flat rate (approximately $1,200 to $1,500) or a linear rate (approximately $5 to $20 per linear foot).  
  • Fumigation Treatments — Like tenting, fumigation is an aggressive termite treatment involving pumping the house with a lethal gas. All residences are required to vacate the premises for 3-5 days following the treatment. Fumigation costs  $10 to $20 per linear foot. 

What Are Termite Protection Plans?

Termites infestations are a serious and pervasive issue that can cause a significant strain on your finances. Termite protection plans are policies that guarantee to protect you from the steep costs of termite treatment and damage repairs. Termite warranties offer a variety of services, ensuring that your plan is the most effective for your home and budget.

Reasons That Make Termite Protection Plans Worth It

  • The cost of treatment for pre-existing termite damage
  •  Pretreatment for new homes
  • Regular inspections to confirm your home is termite-free
  • If professionals discover termites during inspections, you are covered against treatments and repair costs
  • All necessary follow-up treatments

Where And How Do I Get A Termite Protection Plan?

The first step of getting a termite protection plan is scheduling an inspection with a licensed termite company. Homeowners have access to various renowned pest control companies, many of which have locations throughout the United States.

Many people regard Terminix and Orkin as the best pest control companies, and both offer comprehensive termite protection plans. Their residential services are very similar in price, treatment, and customer service. Furthermore, both companies offer generous guarantee policies to ensure customer satisfaction.

The annual cost of the average termite warranty ranges between $300 and $400. This fee is far lower than the average out-of-pocket cost of termite treatment and damages, which approximates $3,000 annually. The money they can save you should you incur damages makes termite protection plans worth it.

Do You Need Pest Control Services?

Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.


Related Questions

Does home insurance cover termite protection plans?

Generally, the answer is no. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, most homeowner insurance policies do not cover termite damage and treatment. However, there are two cases in which your home insurance may cover termite damage and offer compensation:

  • If your house completely collapses from termite damage
  • A covered risk or peril causes the termites
Is preventative termite treatment necessary?

While termite treatment is clearly necessary to fight active infestation, it is also essential to treat your house preemptively. Preventative termite treatment, even if you’ve never had a termite issue before, can save you from potential damages and expenses.

Most termite treatments last approximately five years. However, the exact length of time depends on the method of treatment you use. For example, liquid and chemical termite treatments can last upward of five years, while bait stations, on average, last about a year.

How often should I get my home inspected for termites?

Professional inspectors will thoroughly assess your home for early signs of termite damage. These inspections are an integral aspect of termite prevention and are essential in keeping infestations at bay.

Ideally, you should have an annual termite inspection. Homeowners should be proactive in termite prevention, especially when in older homes that are more prone to infestations.

Related Guide

Stacy Randall
Stacy Randall

Stacy Randall is a wife, mother, and freelance writer from NOLA that has always had a love for DIY projects, home organization, and making spaces beautiful. Together with her husband, she has been spending the last several years lovingly renovating her grandparent's former home, making it their own and learning a lot about life along the way.

More by Stacy Randall

Next