When was the last time you had a termite inspection? The fact is most property owners don't have an annual termite inspection done as recommended in the Australian Standard.  It is not until noticeable damage is apparent that most property owners consider having an inspection done and by then 10s of thousands of dollars in damage can already have been done.

Properties along the east coast of Australia are highly susceptible to subterranean termite attack as the temperature, humidity and moist conditions create the perfect climate for what termites require to survive. There are many species of termites found in the Shoalhaven, Illawarra and Southern Highlands that are destructive and can cause serious and structural damage. 

Subterranean termites enter houses from under the ground where they can travel up to 100m from a nesting site or tree which may even be on another property. Termites enter in a concealed manner so an expert that is trained and understands the biology and habits of the different types of species is essential when having a termite inspection done on your property. 

Termite barriers are installed in houses to force the termites out to a point where they can be readily detected and identified so they can be treated before they enter your floor, wall or roof cavities and do significant damage. It is recommended by the Australian Standard that termite inspections be undertaken at intervals not exceeding 12 months.

No house is termite proof and even management systems and treatments can be compromised and bridged. Termites can enter through minor cracks in concrete slabs that may exist under floor covings that you don't even know exist. 

The risk of attack can be reduced by having inspections done every 12 months, keeping the subfloor and perimeter of the house dry, ensuring there are no timbers, fire wood, tree branches or debris in contact with the ground. A 75mm slab edge inspection zone should be maintained to the perimeter of houses on concrete slab.

Areas inspected include:

- Building Interior
- Building Exterior
- Roof Space
- Subfloor
- The Site

In accordance with AS4349.3-2010 Inspection of buildings Part 3: Timber Pest Inspections