Pigeon infestations can cause significant damage to your property. The sight of pigeons roosting on your roof or nesting in your attic can be both an eyesore and a serious issue. Many property owners wonder if pigeon removal is covered by insurance. Understanding this can save you time, money, and stress. In this blog, we’ll explore the key points you need to know about whether your insurance policy covers pigeon removal and how to handle the situation effectively.
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What Is Pigeon Removal?
Pigeon removal involves the humane process of eliminating pigeons from your property. This can include safely removing nests, blocking access points, and employing deterrents to prevent future infestations. Pigeons can damage buildings, spread diseases, and leave unsightly droppings that can stain and erode surfaces.
Is Pigeon Removal Covered by Insurance?
The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might hope. It depends on several factors, such as your insurance policy and the cause of the infestation. In general, pigeon removal is not automatically covered by most standard home or business insurance policies. However, there are exceptions, and understanding these can help you decide on the best course of action.
When Will Insurance Cover Pigeon Removal?
Accidental Damage
If pigeons cause damage to your property, such as breaking tiles, damaging the roof, or affecting structural integrity, insurance may cover the repair costs. However, the pigeon removal itself might not be included. You may need a separate pest control policy for this service.Buildings Insurance
Some buildings insurance policies may cover the damage caused by pests, including pigeons. This often includes the costs for repairing structural damage but not the cost of removing the pigeons. You’ll likely need to provide evidence of the damage, which a professional pigeon removal service can help with.Pest Control Add-ons
Many insurers offer optional add-ons to their standard policies that specifically cover pest control services. If you already have this additional coverage, pigeon removal might be included in your policy. This coverage is typically more common in commercial insurance policies rather than residential ones.Liability Insurance for Commercial Properties
If pigeons are nesting on your commercial property and cause harm or damage to employees or customers, your liability insurance may cover the costs associated with pigeon removal. This can also apply if pigeons spread diseases that affect public health.
When Will Insurance Not Cover Pigeon Removal?
Routine Maintenance
If your pigeon problem results from neglect or poor maintenance, your insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of removal. Insurance policies typically don’t cover issues that could have been prevented with proper upkeep, such as failing to block access points for pigeons.Pest Infestations Due to Poor Management
If pigeons infest your property due to a lack of preventative measures (like failing to seal gaps in your roof or install bird spikes), your insurance may not cover the costs. Insurers expect property owners to take reasonable steps to prevent infestations.Exclusion Clauses in Your Policy
Some insurance policies may have exclusions specifically related to pest control. It’s essential to check the details of your policy to see if pigeons are mentioned as a non-covered pest. If so, you’ll need to cover the cost of pigeon removal yourself.
Steps to Take If Pigeon Removal Isn’t Covered by Insurance
If pigeon removal isn’t covered under your insurance, don’t panic. There are still effective steps you can take to resolve the issue.
Contact a Professional Pigeon Removal Service
The first step is to call a professional pigeon removal company like Beaver House Services Ltd. Experts in this field can safely remove pigeons, clear nests, and implement long-term deterrents to prevent future infestations.Invest in Preventative Measures
To prevent pigeons from returning, invest in preventative measures such as bird spikes, netting, or sound deterrents. This can save you from costly future infestations and protect your property from further damage.Consider Add-Ons or Specialised Coverage
If pigeon problems are common in your area or in your property type, consider adding pest control coverage to your insurance policy. This way, you’ll be covered in case of future infestations.
Can You Claim for Pigeon Damage?
While pigeon removal may not always be covered, you might still be able to claim for the damage caused by pigeons, depending on your policy. If pigeons have caused structural damage, such as broken tiles, blocked gutters, or roof leaks, your building insurance might help cover the cost of repairs.
Always document the damage thoroughly with photos and a report from a professional pigeon removal service. This documentation will support your claim and help prove the extent of the damage.
Conclusion
In summary, pigeon removal is typically not covered by standard home insurance policies, but there are exceptions. If your property has suffered damage due to pigeons, you may be able to claim for the repairs but not for the removal itself. It’s crucial to check your policy’s fine print and speak with your insurer to understand the coverage.
