I inspected a 17th-century Dutch Master painting for a client. The painting looked fine, but I noticed tiny piles of “frass” (sawdust) on the mantle below it. Woodworms were eating the antique oak panel and the frame from the inside out. The insurance claim was denied instantly. “Vermin and Insects” are a maintenance issue, not an accident.
Key Takeaways
- The Universal Exclusion: Almost every property policy excludes damage by “birds, vermin, rodents, or insects.”
- The “Ensuing Loss” Loophole: If the bugs chew a wire and cause a fire, the fire is covered. But the chewing itself is not. For art, this loophole rarely applies.
- Quarantine is Costly: If one frame has worms, you must freeze/treat the whole collection. Insurance won’t pay for this preventative treatment.
- New Acquisitions are Vectors: The #1 cause is buying a new infested piece and hanging it next to your clean collection.
The “Why” (The Trap): Gradual Deterioration
Insurers view infestations as preventable. If you had inspected the back of the frame, you would have seen the holes.
Therefore, it is “Gradual Deterioration” or “Inherent Vice,” both of which are standard exclusions.
[IMAGE: Macro photo of woodworm flight holes in the back of a wooden panel]
The Investigation: I Called Them
Is there any coverage for the hungry beetle?
1. Standard Carriers
- Verdict: 100% Denial. No exceptions.
2. High-Net-Worth (Pure/AIG)
- The “Sudden” Argument: I tried to argue that the infestation was “sudden” because the bugs hatched all at once.
- The Response: Denied. The larvae were there for years.
3. The Specialist Exception (Fumigation Coverage)
- Rare: Some very specific museum-grade policies cover “Fumigation Expense” if an infestation is discovered, to protect the rest of the collection. They pay to gas the bugs, but not to fix the hole-ridden frame.
Comparison Table
| Scenario | Coverage Status |
| Moths eat a tapestry | Denied (Vermin) |
| Termites eat the frame | Denied (Insect) |
| Rat chews a canvas | Denied (Rodent) |
| Dog chews a canvas | Covered (Accidental Breakage – usually) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Quarantine New Art: Never hang a newly bought antique wood frame immediately. Place it in a black plastic bag for 2 weeks. Look for fresh sawdust.
- Freezing: If you suspect bugs, put the object (if safe) in a chest freezer for 72 hours. This kills larvae. (Consult a conservator first!).
- Inspect Annually: Take paintings off the wall once a year. Look at the back.
- Control Humidity: Woodworms love damp wood. Keep humidity below 55%.
FAQ Section
Does this apply to silverfish eating paper?
Yes. Silverfish love glue and paper. Damage is excluded. Keep books and prints in dry areas.
Are moths covered?
No. Wool tapestries and rugs are prime targets. You must use cedar/traps.
What if the bugs came from a neighbor?
Still excluded on your policy. You might be able to sue the neighbor for negligence, but that’s a legal battle, not an insurance claim.