Heat and summer storms drive insect activity. Cooler months shift pressure to rodents and moisture related issues. Use this calendar to stay ahead of termites, ants, cockroaches and rodents so your home stays protected and your property value stays strong.
How Brisbane Climate Drives Pest Pressure
Brisbane’s warm wet summers supercharge insect breeding and foraging. Termites, ants and cockroaches thrive when heat and moisture are high. In the dry cool season, pests slow but do not stop. Rodents move indoors for warmth and food. Termites remain active in many suburbs year round. Plan prevention and inspections through all seasons rather than waiting for signs of damage.
Year Round Foundation Tasks
- Book a professional termite inspection every 12 months. High risk homes may need six monthly checks.
- Keep perimeter drainage clear and direct stormwater away from footings.
- Maintain a clear inspection zone around the slab and weep holes. Avoid garden beds against walls.
- Fix leaks in bathrooms, kitchens and roof spaces.
- Store firewood and timber off the ground and away from the house.
- Seal gaps around pipes, vents and utility penetrations.
- Use tight fitting lids on bins and clean food prep areas daily.
Summer December To February
- Termite pressure is high. Schedule a mid season termite check if you are in a known risk area or if you have noticed conducive moisture or timber in contact with soil.
- Refresh ant and cockroach barriers at entry points and around wet areas. Use gel baits indoors and non repellent sprays outdoors following the label.
- Trim vegetation off walls and roof lines. Reduce bridging routes to the building envelope.
- Improve subfloor ventilation and run bathroom and laundry exhaust fans to reduce humidity.
- Empty saucers under pot plants and correct pooling after storms.
Autumn March To May
- Rodent proofing is a priority before cool nights arrive. Seal gaps larger than a 10 cent coin. Install bristle strips on garage and external doors.
- Inspect roof voids and subfloors for droppings, gnaw marks and rub marks. Deploy lockable bait stations in safe locations away from children and pets.
- Service weep holes and perimeter zones. Remove mulch that has drifted against the slab.
- Refresh external ant and cockroach barriers before winter movement indoors.
Winter June To August
- Termites remain a risk. Activity may be less visible but colonies continue to forage in many suburbs. Keep up inspections and moisture control.
- Rodents seek warmth in roof spaces and behind dishwashers and fridges. Check and rebait stations as needed.
- Clean and declutter storage areas. Cardboard harbors cockroaches. Use plastic tubs with lids.
- Service door seals and flyscreens to block crawling and flying pests.
Spring September To November
- Watch for termite and ant swarms on warm still evenings. Collect a sample or clear photo for identification.
- Repair or replace weathered door and window seals.
- Prune overhanging branches to reduce roof access for rodents and ants.
- Prepare for summer storms. Improve drainage and fix guttering.
- If you plan exterior painting or renovations, schedule a termite inspection before works begin.
Monthly Quick Checklist For Brisbane Homes
- Walk the perimeter for leaks, pooling water and timber in contact with soil.
- Test and clear weep holes and inspection zones.
- Check under sinks for drips and soft timber.
- Empty kitchen and green waste bins frequently.
- Inspect roof space quarterly for droppings, gnawing or damp insulation.
- Record any swarm events and locations to guide targeted treatment.
Termites In Brisbane: What Homeowners Must Know
Brisbane has both subterranean and drywood termite risks. Subterranean termites need moisture and often bridge or breach concealed areas. Drywood termites can live inside dry timber and are harder to detect.
West Indian drywood termite is restricted matter in Queensland under the Biosecurity Act 2014. If you find evidence of this pest, you must report it to Biosecurity Queensland within 24 hours. The Queensland Government provides guidance and reporting details. See West Indian drywood termite information at Business Queensland for current obligations and treatment options.
Drywood termite eradication often requires specialist structural fumigation. Only licensed pest management technicians with the correct endorsements can perform this work. The Queensland Government explains licensing expectations for timber pests and fumigation and notes that not all technicians are authorised to fumigate entire structures. For treatment details see Queensland Government advice on treatment and control of West Indian drywood termite.
For subterranean termites, combine professional inspections with an integrated management plan. Fix moisture. Maintain clear inspection zones. Consider a full perimeter soil treatment with a non repellent termiticide or install and maintain a baiting and monitoring system. Choose a solution that suits your construction type, soil and budget after a professional assessment.
Selling Or Leasing A Property Practical Tips
From a seller’s perspective, a documented pest management history supports value and buyer confidence. Keep inspection reports and proof of any termite management systems or renewals. Address conducive conditions such as garden beds bridging weep holes. Replace swollen skirting boards or damaged architraves rather than leaving visible defects. If you manage rentals, schedule routine pest servicing in line with tenancy agreements and keep clear records of access and outcomes.
When To DIY And When To Call A Pro
DIY can help with sanitation, proofing and minor ant or cockroach activity. Use baits and consumer products according to the label and keep them away from children and pets. Call a licensed technician for any termite evidence, for recurring cockroach activity in multi unit buildings, for roof space rodent infestations that persist after proofing, and for any suspected drywood termite. The cost of getting it right early is far less than repairing structural damage later.
Book A Brisbane Inspection
If you want an expert to assess risk and set up a seasonally tuned plan, book a professional inspection with our team today. We service classic Queenslanders and modern builds across Brisbane and tailor prevention to your property and goals.