Monday, 20 September 2010
Bed Bugs Biting Into Homeowners and Renters Costs
The phrase, “Don’t let the bed bugs bite” is now more relevant than ever it seems as the little insects have invaded many of the nation’s cities. The problem is, other than being bitten and left with itchy marks, is that it can cost a lot of money to get rid of the little critters because they are not covered by standard homeowners or renters insurance policies.
Bed bug infestations can be quite costly as homeowners and renters may end up losing or damaging items like clothing, furniture, and rugs while trying to get rid of them. In fact, renters are considered to be more likely to be invaded by the bugs, but the least likely to be able to afford proper extermination of them and replacing any damaged items.
The Washington Post recently published an article urging readers to contact their state government to put some pressure on the State Bureau of Insurance to require insurance carriers to offer some type of supplemental bed bug coverage for homeowners and renters.
It seems that Consumer Reports has also jumped into the fray and confirmed that most insurers don’t cover the costs of getting rid of the bugs and the cleanup. It reported that insect and vermin infestations are considered to be maintenance issues and aren’t covered by policies even though it is a costly venture.
However, there is some hope that legislation could soon be coming which would require insurance companies to cover the cost of bed-bug infestations as the New York state assembly has a bill in front of it that calls for tax reimbursements that will cover any property damage caused by bed bugs and the extermination of them.
