Can termites hurt you?

We know termites can “hurt” us. They can ruin our property and wreck our wallets. When you have to pay for unexpected repairs caused by termites, that really hurts. But can termites hurt you – physically?

Can Termites Hurt You by Biting or Stinging?

It’s not likely termites will physically harm you or your family. Termites don’t have stingers. A soldier termite might bite you if you’re mishandling it or if it feels threatened. Not a lot of us want to handle termites anyway.

Further, termite droppings don’t spread disease. If handled – which most of us wouldn’t – you might suffer a mild, temporary dermatological reaction. Small piles of termite droppings are actually beneficial because they can be your first clue you have a big problem.

Termite colonies and nests can even be problematic to allergy sufferers. Family members with asthma or compromised immune systems may be sensitive to the termite-dust and dropping particles circulated through HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems.

How Termites Can Hurt You

Considering your residential or commercial property is likely your greatest financial asset, the answer to the question “Can termites hurt you?” is a definite “Yes.” Termites can hurt your home and your wallet.

The cost of termite treatment is not as expensive as most homeowners fear it will be.

Because termites are so prevalent here, most homeowners have a routine inspection and maintenance service agreement with their local Phoenix-area pest control pros. If you suffer property damage from termites, it may not be covered under your homeowner’s policy because you weren’t “diligent” in preventing a termite infestation. That sounds cold, but that’s how it is with many insurance companies.

Calculate Basic Termite Damage Costs

It’s almost impossible to declare a hard-and-fast estimate of termite damage costs. But here’s another way of thinking about “can termites hurt you?” A lot depends on how long the termites have been active. Another factor is where the termite damage occurs. Structural damage is most common. Where you live in the U.S. can influence the cost of materials and repairs, too.

A somewhat reliable estimate of termite damage can be calculated using the homewyse “Cost to Repair Termite Damage” calculator.  For example, a Houston-area termite repair may cost between $300-$700 for one, basic repair “with favorable site conditions.” Maricopa County repairs are slightly more.

Even “basic” repairs can be complex. They include:

• Cutting, removing, and disposing of damaged materials
• Damage site preparation for basic surface material patchwork
• Labor
• Materials and hardware (fasteners, connectors, etc.)
• Pre- and post-cleaning the damaged area

Beyond the Basics: Termite Repairs

We may say termites can “eat you out of house and home,” but that rarely happens. Unfortunately, they seldom stick to cosmetic damage. When termites eat into the structure of a property, they can destroy:

• Ceiling joists
• Floor joists
• Insulation
• Plaster
• Posts
• Siding
• Support beams
• Wall studs

The Best Way to Avoid Termite Damage

“Don’t bother making any repairs until you know the termite issue is under control,” says howstuffworks.com.

When it comes to termite damage, a little prevention is certainly worth a thousand-dollar-cure. The best way to avoid termite damage is to schedule regular inspections and preventive treatments if needed. Schedule a pest control consultation with Budget Brothers Termite & Pest Elimination.

The real answer to can termites hurt you? Only if you let them.