What is a Termite Inspection? – What Queensland home owners need to know

Every year Termites do approximately $1 Billion dollars worth of damage to homes and businesses. This is more than fire and flood combined! Queensland has copped a big part of the damage also.

Termite damage is rarely found by homeowners as by the time damage is visible, There has been extensive damage done. The main cost of Termite Damage is not the timber, But the renovations to bathrooms and kitchens that also needs to be replaced because of the damage to the timber framework. An average cost of Termite damage to timber in a bathroom is usually only $1000 worth of timber damage. But if that damage is done in a bathroom. The homeowners are up for a full Bathroom reno! Tiles, waterproofing vanities,showers  These renovations cost $8000 – $12,000 on average. A termite Inspection regularly will decrease the cost of damage if your home does get Termites.

A Termite Inspection is also essential if you are looking to buy a home or even sell a home. If you’re selling a home in Queensland your buyer won’t get finance from the bank unless your home passes the Termite Inspection. If you have one before you sell, You will find out any recommendations needed or repairs to be done before you sell. If you have a clean report your Real Estate Agent will have confidence in passing any independent inspection from buyers.

Termite Inspection Procedure

A Termite inspection starts with a visual inspection of the external areas of your home including the gardens and landscaping timbers or retaining walls. All internal areas are also inspected using Termite detection tools like moisture scan tools, motion sensors and thermal imaging cameras. All rooms and garage internally are inspected. Then last the roof void is also inspected for signs of current or past Termite Damage. The roof void is also a good area to check for past renovations or termite repair as new timber framing is easily detected to the trained eye.

Termite Report

A Termite Report is then prepared including photos and findings and recommendations from the inspection. This report is then sent to the homeowner for reading. It is also common for the homeowner to discuss report findings with the Pest Control Company.

Termite Inspection Cost

When it comes to termite inspections, you can expect to pay around $200 – $220 for a professional inspection and report. This price typically covers a thorough inspection of your property, both internally and externally, using advanced tools such as moisture meters, tapping sticks, and thermal imaging to detect any signs of termite activity. The inspection ensures that all areas of your home are checked for potential damage, including the roof void, gardens, and any timber structures.

For smaller homes, such as those with 1-2 bedrooms, the inspection cost starts from $260, and for medium-sized homes (3-4 bedrooms), the price begins at $290. Larger homes, with 5+ bedrooms, will typically start at $310. These costs include a comprehensive visual inspection, a full-page coloured digital report detailing findings, and an evaluation by the technician on whether termite management is necessary. A follow-up visit is also included in the cost to ensure that any treatment applied is effective and that your property remains protected from further infestation.

Investing in a professional termite inspection is crucial in preventing significant damage to your home. Regular inspections can save homeowners from costly repairs, which are often required when termite infestations go unnoticed for too long.

Why Regular Termite Inspections Are Crucial

While termite damage can be devastating, early detection and regular inspections can prevent significant structural damage. Having a professional inspect your property annually ensures that any potential threats are caught early, saving you money in the long run.

Even if your home has not experienced any issues yet, conducting regular termite inspections gives you peace of mind. It can also be the difference between a small repair and a major renovation, preventing potentially hazardous situations, such as compromised structural integrity in your home.

Tips for Homeowners to Prevent Termites

In addition to regular termite inspections, homeowners should take proactive steps to prevent termites from infesting their properties. Here are some key tips:

1. Remove Timber and Wood Debris: Keep timber and wood debris away from your home’s foundation. Wood should be stored off the ground and away from any exterior walls.

2. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Make sure to seal any cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and vents. Termites can enter through even the smallest openings.

3. Maintain Gutters: Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup, which can attract termites.

4. Reduce Moisture Levels: Fix any plumbing leaks and ensure that water doesn’t collect near your foundation.

5. Install Termite Barriers: Consider installing physical or chemical barriers around your property to prevent termites from entering.

Termite inspection and treatment procedure by Pest-Ex