Everybody knows that termites are one of the most destructive pests in Australia. But not everyone knows how often they should get a termite inspection.
In accordance with the Australian Standards it is recommended at least once a year. While this is a good rule of thumb, depending on your location, past history of termites and neighbours, you may need more frequent visits. You will also need a termite inspection if you plan to buy or sell property.
This article will explain how often you should get a termite inspection based on your unique circumstances.
Existing families, tenants, and business owners
Most pest control companies recommend you get a termite inspection every year. This is due to the hot and humid climate we experience in Australia. The combination of extreme heat and moisture creates the perfect soil conditions for termites. But how often should you get a termite inspection?
Most residents who live and work south of the Capricorn Tropic (Victoria, NSW, South Australia, and the lower part of Western Australia) should get an inspection at least once per year.
However, for residents living north of the Capricorn (Queensland, Northern Territory, and upper part of Western Australia) who are exposed to higher temperatures, they should get a termite inspection every 6 months.
History with termites
There are some exceptions to the above guidelines.
Do you work or live in a property with a history of termites but no physical barrier? If so, then you should get a termite inspection every 6 months (regardless of region) until you set up a termite management system. Without a physical or chemical barrier in place, you have no guaranteed protection against termites.
Do you have an existing chemical barrier nearing the end of its lifecycle? You may need a qualified technician to re-install the barrier with fresh chemicals. Otherwise, the old solution won’t work, and termites will enter the property.
Has a neighbour in the area recently been exposed termites? If so, there’s a chance your property could be next. For this reason, you should book a termite inspection as soon as possible. They can conduct a thorough inspection of your home or business and – if the risk is there – develop a custom termite plan for you.
Buying and selling property
Before you list a property on the market, it’s highly encouraged you get a pest and timber inspection. The inspection report will let you and potential buyers know about:
- The building’s past, current, and potential future threat of pests
- Past or current termite management system in place
- Evidence of timber damage
- Plumbing issues
- Recommended treatment options
With this information, you can fix and make modifications to improve the building’s condition. This will give potential buyers greater peace of mind and help you sell at a higher price. You may also attract an overall higher amount of buyers into the fold.
If you plan on buying, and the seller has not already had an inspection, you can arrange a pre-purchase inspection. Same as above, this inspection will assess the whole building for timber and pest damage, and give you recommendations for pest and building maintenance.
You can then use this information to negotiate a lower sale price or decide to walk away from the deal.
Book a termite inspection today
All Bugs has over 4 decades of experience conducting residential and commercial termite inspections. By combing our local knowledge of pest behaviour with the latest technology, we can provide detailed inspection reports, typically within 24 hours. You’ll get recommendations for the most effective treatment plan and a no-obligation cost.
To book a professional termite inspection with All Bugs, contact us today.
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