Brisbane Termite Infestations: When to Schedule an Inspection
Recently, an unfortunate story surfaced on ABC News about a Gold Coast couple who experienced a devastating financial blow after discovering their newly purchased home was severely infested with termites. Despite hiring a certified building and pest inspector who reported no visible termite activity, they later found extensive termite damage that had been concealed. The couple’s ordeal, which included demolishing and rebuilding on the same land, legal battles, and taking a second mortgage, is estimated to have cost them $300,000. This situation highlights the importance of thorough and regular termite inspections, especially in Queensland.
Termites are a significant threat to homes in Brisbane, where the warm, humid climate creates the perfect environment for these pests to thrive. If you’re a homeowner, knowing when to schedule an inspection can make all the difference in protecting your property from hidden termite damage and avoiding similar costly mistakes. Here’s what you need to know about when and why you should book a termite inspection.
When Should You Get a Termite Inspection?
1. Every Year – Without Fail
Think of a termite inspection like an annual health check-up for your home. Regular inspections are crucial, especially in Brisbane’s climate. Ideally, schedule a professional inspection every 12 months. An annual inspection can help catch early signs of termite activity before it escalates into a costly problem. Remember, prevention is always better (and cheaper) than cure!
2. After Heavy Rain or Storms
Brisbane weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rains and storms popping up throughout the year. Unfortunately, termites love the aftermath of these weather events. Moist, softened soil creates easy access for subterranean termites to enter your home. If you’ve experienced a period of heavy rain or a storm, it’s wise to book an inspection soon after to ensure these pests haven’t taken the opportunity to move in.
3. If You Notice Signs of Damage
You don’t need to be an expert to spot some of the common signs of a termite problem. Keep an eye out for hollow-sounding wood, sagging floors, cracked paint that bubbles, or mud tubes running up walls or along foundations. If you notice any of these, it’s time to act fast and schedule a termite inspection. The quicker you catch an infestation, the easier and less expensive it is to handle.
4. When Buying or Selling a Property
Are you thinking of buying a new home in Brisbane? Or maybe you’re putting your property on the market? In either case, a termite inspection is a must. For buyers, it’s about ensuring you’re not purchasing a house with hidden damage. For sellers, it’s about providing peace of mind to potential buyers. An inspection report can help both parties move forward with confidence.
5. Before Starting Renovations
Planning to add a new deck, renovate the kitchen, or convert your garage? Don’t let termites spoil your plans. Before you begin any renovation work, get a termite inspection. Not only will this ensure there aren’t any existing problems that could worsen, but it will also help prevent accidentally disturbing a termite nest, causing them to spread further into your home.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Termite Inspection
It’s easy to think, “I don’t see any termites, so I’m safe.” But that’s the tricky part—termites are sneaky. They can chew through wood, floors, and even wallpaper without you noticing. By the time you see them, they’ve often done significant damage. Regular termite inspections by a professional can catch them before they make themselves known in the worst way.
What to Expect During a Termite Inspection
During a professional inspection, a qualified inspector will thoroughly examine your property, both inside and out. They’ll check for signs of termite activity, potential entry points, and conditions that could attract termites. Modern tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras might also be used to detect hidden infestations. If termites are found, the inspector will provide a detailed report and recommend treatment options tailored to your situation.
Stay Ahead of Termites Before They Cause Trouble
Termites won’t wait around—they’re busy causing damage every day. Regular termite inspections are a smart move to protect your Brisbane home from hidden threats. Whether it’s been a while since your last check, you’re in the process of buying or selling a property, or you’ve seen some concerning signs around your home, don’t put it off. Schedule an inspection now to avoid potentially costly problems down the line.
If you’re in Brisbane or nearby suburbs and want to be sure your home is termite-free, reach out to a professional for a detailed inspection. At Owner Inspections, we specialize in comprehensive building and pest inspections, including termite inspections in Brisbane and surrounding areas of Queensland. Using the latest technology, such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, our QBCC-licensed inspectors provide you with a thorough inspection report within 24 hours. Contact us today to keep your home safe from those relentless pests.