Most home owners in Australia are made aware of the need for home maintenance or repairs by visibly apparent indications, things like: flaking paint, broken windows, leaking gutters. But it is the areas that are not visible that also need regular checks. Just because it can’t be seen it should not be ignored.
We are talking about potential termite damage that can occur all around your home but out of eyesight. Termites have the ability to chew through wood and cause an extraordinary amount of damage to your home and bank account. The average costs of termite damage is $10,000. So it pays to be diligent.
What to look for when inspecting your home
Whether it is part of your regular home maintenance routine or if you are looking to buy a new house there are a few things to look out which help you identify whether there is a termites problem.
It is important that the sub floor areas of a house are clear and that all debris is removed. This helps not only with the mitigation against termites and other vermin but it also helps to provide ventilation.
By controlling dampness you are putting a simple barrier up. Termites prefer damp conditions. They also like all those timber off cuts you have left under or beside the house. Clear them away and you have taken away a food source.
While inspecting your current or potential property have a look around and see if there are any water leaks. As we have established termites love moisture and a water leakage is an invitation into your home or garden. How well waterproofed is the bathroom? The bathroom is number one hot spot for a termite infestation.
Any inspection for termites should include some to the obvious signs of termites. Mudding, clearly damaged timber in the ceiling, exhausted termite stations and hollow or damaged wood are all signs that you have or have had termites in your home.
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What do you do if you think you have a termite infestation?
You contact an independent and licenced pest inspector right now! Do not attempt to remove or disturb the nest or mud-tubes yourself as this disperses the colony and makes control more difficult for the inspector.
It is important that your pest inspector is licenced and insured. This is an industry which is not properly regulated so it is important to seek out a pest inspector who is thoroughly qualified and provides a comprehensive inspection.
What should be included in my termite inspection?
A thorough termite inspection will include the inspections of; all roof videos and subfloor areas (including decks), inside and outside the building, fences, outbuildings, retaining wall, all exposed timers and the garden area. Anything less is just lazy.
If you have engaged a professional you will be given a comprehensive report outlining all the issues and solutions as to how to treat any of the problems.
Remember, if caught early, termites can be effectively controlled before they cause damage that can threaten the integrity of any home. Be vigilant and have regular pest inspections.