Pest and Wildlife Questions Homeowners Ask

A lot of people assume insurance handles every pest problem. In practice, many policies treat ongoing infestations and termite damage as routine maintenance, while some may cover sudden damage from a related event. Policies differ, so check yours or ask your agent. Photos, dated notes and provider reports can often help document damage for a claim. Slow down first, then gather your records.

Traps can catch a mouse or two. The myth is that this solves the problem. Mice multiply fast and squeeze through gaps about the size of a dime, so a few catches often hide a bigger issue. Sprays rarely reach nests behind walls. If you still see droppings after a week or two, a provider in our network can look for entry points. Photos before sprays help them see what you saw.

Usually yes, but keep your distance. Never corner a raccoon, bat or squirrel, and don't touch droppings with bare hands. Move kids and pets to another room and close the door. If you must clean up, wear gloves and a mask. Wild animals can carry disease and bite when scared, so leave wildlife removal to a provider who has the right gear.

Not always. Many people picture packing up for days, but it depends on the method. Some work happens in the soil around the foundation, while other methods mean drilling or treating more of the structure. Before you agree to anything, ask the provider what to expect, how to prepare, and whether pets or plants need to move. Get the answers in writing.

Check the waist and wings. Termites have a thick, straight waist and two pairs of wings that are the same length. Flying ants have a pinched waist and longer front wings. Take a clear photo and save a few insects in a jar. A provider can confirm what they are during an inspection.

Foggers feel like a strong move, but they often push bugs deeper into walls and leave residue on surfaces. Bed bugs hide in seams, bed frames and outlets that fog barely reaches. If you suspect them, don't carry bedding around the house. Ask a provider about bed bug treatment, and note where you saw bites or spots.

Many people believe winter wipes pests out. Cold actually sends mice, rats and insects looking for warm spaces, especially in older homes with stone or block foundations. Seal gaps around pipes and vents, fix damp basement spots, stack firewood away from the house, and store food in sealed containers. Check again after spring snowmelt and coastal storms.

Take wide and close-up photos of droppings, damage, nests or insects, with a coin or ruler for scale. Write down dates, times and rooms where you saw activity. Keep receipts for any products you tried. Notes help everyone. These records help estimates go smoother and may support an insurance conversation. Request a callback to check provider availability when you're ready.