Is your house at risk of termite infestation?
If you have been wondering whether your home is at risk of termite infestation, it is good to know that you are taking the first steps in being prepared ahead of time. Knowing the risks and your property’s potential for termite invasion is a smart move, and identifying and rectifying issues that attract termites is critical in preventing any attack.
Geographical location of your house will firstly tell you whether you are at risk. Termites in Australia are abundant and any coastal region (with the exception of Tasmania) can be considered a hot spot. Here in Melbourne, (although people may claim to be “not in a termite area”) there is no such thing as a ‘safe’ zone. All suburbs of Melbourne are prone to termite infestation.
Have you checked if your neighbours have had termites? If a nearby infestation goes untreated for long enough, the risk to your property increases significantly. If this is the case, a termite inspection should be conducted without delay.
If you have any rotting or moist wood around your property, this is a big attraction for termites. Timber cladding or fencing that is in contact with ground or soil quickly begins to rot and should be removed or altered to be clear of the ground. Old rotting fences should be removed. Firewood located nearby? This should be elevated off the ground and covered with a tarp to keep dry. The presence of mulch up against a building is another conducive condition which may not be evident to the untrained eye. A regular inspection can identify and make recommendations on such issues.
A look around and under the house for any signs of water leaking is another ‘must’ when preventing termites as excess moisture is a huge attraction. Leaking subfloor water and waste pipes under wet areas / leaking downpipes / overflowing gutters, are some common areas to be investigated.
Being able to spot the early signs of termite damage is another critical part of preventing major structural damage. Some basic signs include – sagging floors; hollow sounding timber; evidence of mud tunnels (subterranean termite tubes); presence of discarded wings or termite excrement.
If you think you are at risk, and want to ensure you are doing everything you can to prevent an infestation, or just want to check if any active termites are present in your home, call Melbourne House Check now for a comprehensive pest inspection. This thorough check is the best way to assess for risk and to illustrate the most effective methods for prevention.
Melbourne House Check conduct both building and pest inspections. Call us anytime regarding an inspection at your own house or one that you are considering purchasing. Bookings can be made through our website or by calling our office on 1300 729 352.
Read our other articles on termite inspections and termite damage
Termite infestation in a new home under 2 years old
Self diagnosing termite issues
Building inspections also look for termites
