Termite Damage Risk Calculator
Termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage annually in the United States, and most homeowner insurance policies do not cover termite damage. This calculator assesses your home's risk level based on structural and environmental factors, and estimates potential repair costs if an infestation goes undetected.
Termite Risk Assessment
This assessment is an educational estimate based on common risk factors. It is not a substitute for a professional termite inspection. A licensed pest control operator or WDO inspector can identify active infestations, previous damage, and conditions conducive to termite activity that a calculator cannot detect.
Termite Risk by Region
| Risk Zone | States / Regions | Primary Species | Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very Heavy | FL, LA, MS, AL, HI, coastal TX, coastal GA/SC | Subterranean + Drywood + Formosan | Very high — treatment is essential |
| Heavy | Southeast, Southern CA, Central TX, AZ, NM | Subterranean + some Drywood | High — annual inspection recommended |
| Moderate | Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, NorCal, TN, NC, OR | Eastern Subterranean | Moderate — inspect every 1–3 years |
| Slight | Northern tier, Mountain states, WA, ME, MN | Eastern Subterranean (limited) | Low but not zero |
| None to Slight | Alaska, far northern regions | Rare | Very low |
Common Signs of Termite Activity
- Mud tubes — Pencil-width mud tunnels on foundation walls, piers, or plumbing penetrations (subterranean termites)
- Discarded wings — Piles of small, translucent wings near windows or doors (swarmers)
- Frass (droppings) — Small wood-colored pellets below kick-out holes (drywood termites)
- Hollow-sounding wood — Tap exposed wood with a screwdriver handle; damaged wood sounds papery or hollow
- Bubbling or uneven paint — Can indicate moisture from termite activity behind walls
- Tight-fitting doors or windows — Termite damage warps wood frames
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does termite damage repair cost?
Average termite damage repair costs $3,000–$8,000. Severe structural damage (joists, sill plates, support beams) can exceed $15,000–$30,000. Early detection through annual inspections is the most effective way to limit repair costs.
Does homeowner insurance cover termite damage?
No. Standard homeowner insurance policies exclude termite damage because it is considered a preventable maintenance issue. Some home warranty plans include termite coverage, but with significant limitations. Prevention and early detection are the only reliable protections.
How quickly do termites cause damage?
A mature subterranean colony (60,000–1 million workers) can consume approximately 1/5 of an ounce of wood per day. Noticeable structural damage typically takes 3–8 years, but Formosan termites (common in the Gulf Coast) are far more aggressive and can cause serious damage in 1–2 years.