Pre Purchase Pest Inspections

Building and Pest Inspections for Termites (White Ants)

Subterranean termites are by the far the most destructive timber pests in Australia and pose a real threat to both new and existing homes and buildings. Termite surveys have found 1 in 3 homes in Australia will be affected by termites at some stage, which is more prevalent than damage caused by fire, storm and flood combined. All too often the presence of these silent invaders goes undetected until the termite damage is severe.

The Australian Standard for Termite Protection (AS3660) recommends that regular competent inspections be carried out every 12 months or more frequently in areas of higher termite risk or known activity. The Standard does advise that even a correctly installed and complete termite barrier system cannot completely guarantee prevention of termite attack as termites can potentially breach or bridge over the barrier. Evidence of termites bridging or breaching a barrier can be detected during regular termite inspections, carried out by a qualified pest management technician.

The non-invasive timber pest inspection includes all structural timbers, decorative timbers, landscaping and surrounding trees where accessible. All findings from the inspection will be clearly documented in a comprehensive written report. Areas covered in the report include subterranean termites, borer, fungal decay (wood rot) and environmental issues that may increase the risk of termite attack to your home. Our technicians will also report on other pests such as ants, spiders and rodents, which can also cause damage to your property.

The Building Code and Australian Standard for Termite Protection require all new homes, extensions and renovations to be protected against the concealed entry of subterranean termites from the ground into the building.
Australian Standards for Termite Protection (AS 3660) recommends that regular competent inspections be carried out at least once a year

Inspections

Why is it important to have a termite inspection?
One in three homes in Australia will be affected by termites (white ants) at some stage.
Termites are by far the most destructive timber pests in Australia.
Termites pose a real threat to both new and existing homes and buildings.
These silent invaders often go undetected until severe damage is done.
Most insurance policies do not cover termite damage.
A correctly installed and completed termite barrier systems cannot completely guarantee prevention against termite attack.

How often should I get a termite inspection?
We strongly recommend that a full termite inspection is carried out on all properties every 12 months.

Why should I have my home inspected every 12 months?
It is recommended that dwellings should be inspected every 12 months as potential damage by termites over this period is usually manageable. For properties that have been assessed as high risk, inspections should be more frequent.

I've had my home treated, why do I need an annual inspection?
Disturbances of treated areas can often occur unbeknown to the home owner which can lead to termites breaching the termiticide barrier. If physical termite barriers are installed these will expose termite egress which is then detected by the inspector, before major structural damage occurs. There is no 100% guarantee that following treatments, termite will not return. This is why it is essential that your property is inspected at least every 12 months.