Termite inspections are a vital part of property upkeep, similar to how regular car servicing is important for vehicle maintenance. While you may not need to schedule an inspection as frequently as other services, leaving it too long could result in costly repairs down the line.

Termites are often out of sight, but that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Species like Subterranean termites, they can tunnel beneath your property, causing unseen damage.

When did you last have a termite inspection?

Even if you’ve set up termite baits or have a chemical barrier, regular inspections are still important. Termites are persistent and will find any gaps in your defence.

In this article, we’ll discuss:

• • The importance of annual termite inspections

• • How termites can damage your home

• • The longevity of termite treatments

• • Checking termite bait stations

• • The cost of termite inspections

Is an Annual Termite Inspection Necessary?

According to the Building Code of Australia (BCA), all newly built homes in Sydney must have a termite management system, which includes an inspection at least once a year. For older homes, it’s recommended to have annual inspections to ensure continued protection.

In areas with higher termite activity, more frequent inspections may be required. Since termites often attack from below, it’s important to understand how they could enter your home. Common access points include:

• • Wood chips

• • Garden beds

• • Firewood

• • Wooden furniture

Besides the regular annual check, it’s a good idea to arrange an inspection if you’re renovating, buying, selling a property, or if you notice any signs of potential termite issues.

How Do You Know If Your House Has Termite Damage?

Termites are clever pests. They can enter your home through tunnels beneath the surface or even via bridges they create. Early signs of termite activity are often subtle, and by the time you notice them, significant damage may have already occurred.

Signs to look for include:

• • Peeling paint or weathered wood

• • Decaying wood with visible tunnels

• • Termite mudding or dirt near entrances

• • Difficulty opening or closing doors and windows

• • Swarms of flying insects, similar to ants

A professional termite inspection will check for these signs and assess the overall health of your property, including roof voids, subfloors, fences, and trees.

How Long Does a Termite Treatment Last?

The duration of termite treatments varies depending on the type used and how it was applied. A liquid termite treatment generally lasts between five to eight years. While older treatments offered longer protection, they were more toxic. Newer treatments are safer but tend to wear off sooner.

Even with a termite treatment, it’s important to remember that it’s not foolproof. Termites may still find a way through a chemical barrier, or the barrier itself might degrade over time. This is why regular inspections are essential to ensure ongoing protection.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

The cost of a termite inspection is one of the main reasons people delay booking one. However, the price of an annual inspection is minimal compared to the potential cost of dealing with a termite infestation and repairing the damage. In fact, it’s often less than a dollar a day when spread over the year.

Most insurance policies don’t cover termite damage, so any delay in addressing a termite issue could lead to expensive repairs and even temporary relocation. In Sydney’s hot, humid climate, timely action is crucial.

A small investment in regular inspections gives you peace of mind and helps protect your home from potential destruction.

Conclusion

Don’t wait for visible signs of termites to appear before acting. An annual termite inspection is an easy way to protect your property, ensure the health of your home, and avoid costly repairs. It’s an investment that will keep your property safe for years to come.