In France, Leocare, the 100% mobile multi-service neo-insurer, has joined forces with Badbugs, a company specializing in pest control, to shield its customers from the blood-sucking invaders known as bed bugs. Until the end of November, Leocare policyholders can benefit from free bed bug insurance and receive financial, technical, and even psychological support if their homes are infested with these tiny insects.
Bed bugs on the rise in homes
These parasites have infiltrated public places, residences, and people's minds. Found in homes, hotels, cinemas, restaurants, and even suspected in trains, taxis, subways, and hospitals, bed bugs have become a major concern for millions of French citizens. Between 2017 and 2022, one in ten households (11%) had to deal with these highly invasive and resilient pests. For comparison, the increase in affected households in 2020 was 7% in five years.
A public health issue with costly consequences
Measuring only 4 to 7 millimeters, roughly the size of an apple seed, bed bugs have made themselves at home everywhere, enjoying the proximity to humans, which isn't reciprocated. Besides the physical and psychological discomfort they cause, bed bugs pose a significant public health problem with substantial economic consequences. A recent report from the National Agency for Health Safety (Anses) indicates that these blood-feeding parasites cost French households nearly 230 million euros per year between 2017 and 2022, with an additional 83 million in healthcare expenses.
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Leocare x Badbugs: One-year bed bug insurance offered
To assist individuals in combating this proliferation and avoiding hefty expenses, neo-insurer Leocare has partnered with Badbugs, a platform connecting pest victims with expert professionals. Launched in 2019, Badbugs has created customized bed bug insurance in collaboration with the mutual assistance group IMA (Inter Mutuelles Assistance). Leocare customers can now enjoy specific coverage, whether they are homeowners or renters, regardless of their home insurance. The insurance is free for the first year for Leocare customers and covers the cost of professional home treatment, up to 500 euros per intervention (considering that a professional intervention averages 476 euros). It also includes the option of temporary relocation to a hotel and psychological support. The offer additionally provides support from an expert seven days a week, which is crucial because victims without guidance spend 64% more and take an additional six weeks to eliminate bed bugs.
The Leocare exception
This new solution addresses a genuine need for coverage in a risk that often goes uninsured. Until now, only two insurance policies covering the risk of bed bug infestations were available in the market among all home insurance contracts. In specific cases, some insurers may agree to include an option in the policy that offers compensation in the event of a bed bug infestation. However, policyholders typically have to pay several hundred euros per year for such coverage.