Termite inspection and management

What are termites?

Termites are social insects that feed on cellulose found in timber and other plant-based materials. They are often called white ants, although they are not ants. Only some species damage buildings, and much of that activity can be concealed.

Signs they may be present

• Mud-like tubes or material along footings, brickwork, pipes or timber.
• Timber that sounds hollow, feels soft or breaks away in thin layers.
• Cracked, blistered or uneven paint and plaster.
• Damage around skirting boards, door frames or architraves.
• Discarded wings near windows, lights or spider webs.
• Floors, doors or ceilings that have started to sag or move.

What you can do yourself

• Photograph the area and note where you found it.
• Leave mud tubes, timber and damaged finishes undisturbed.
• Move stored timber and cardboard away from the building.
• Keep soil, mulch and garden beds below inspection zones and weep holes.
• Fix plumbing, drainage and moisture problems, and keep subfloor vents clear.

What to leave alone and when to call

Do not spray suspected termites, break open their workings or pull out damaged boards before the inspection. Disturbance can make the activity harder to trace and may affect the treatment plan.

Call promptly for live termites, fresh mud tubes or damage in flooring, framing, stairs or other load-bearing timber. Keep people away from any area that appears unsafe.

How we investigate and treat it

1. 1

   Inspect the property

   We check accessible internal and external areas, including the perimeter, subfloor and roof void where safe access is available.

2. 2

   Trace and record the evidence

   Suitable detection tools may be used to assess suspect timber and moisture. Findings and access limits are documented.

3. 3

   Set the management plan

   Depending on the species, building and location, options may include baiting, dusting, direct treatment or a chemical management system.

4. 4

   Time repairs and monitoring

   Damaged timber is assessed after the termite plan is set. Building repairs may need a qualified builder or structural engineer, followed by ongoing inspection and maintenance.