Subterranean termites are common across the state. New homes must have a termite management system and a durable notice that explains what was installed and how to maintain it.
First 24 hours: do this and avoid this
When you find signs of termites, the first day is about preserving evidence, preventing spread, and lining up a licensed inspection.
- Do not disturb mud tubes, nests, paths, or trails. The Queensland Government advises against disturbing mud tunnels and nests because it can cause termites to scatter and complicate treatment.
- Do not spray retail insecticides on the activity. Surface sprays can repel or fragment colonies which makes professional eradication harder.
- Photograph what you see. Capture mud tubes, blistered paint, frass, soft timber, or winged swarmers. Include a ruler for scale.
- Mark the area and keep kids and pets away.
- Reduce moisture where safe. Fix obvious drips, improve ventilation, and move stored items off slab edges. Do not rip up skirtings or open walls before inspection.
- Book a licensed timber pest inspection. Aim for a full inspection within 24 to 48 hours. Ask for a written report with a site plan, photos, findings, and recommendations.
How I confirm an active infestation
A professional inspection is more than a quick look. I combine a full interior and exterior inspection with the right tools and an understanding of common entry points in Brisbane timber and brick veneer homes.
- I check skirtings, door jambs, architraves, window reveals, subfloor piers, slab edges, patios, pergola joins, garden beds against walls, and weep holes. The QBCC notes slab edges and penetrations are critical for termite management and inspection access
- I tap and probe suspect timbers for hollowness and inspect for rippled paint or bulging wall linings that can indicate concealed damage.
- I look for moisture sources like leaking showers, downpipes, or air conditioning overflows that can support termite activity.
- Where appropriate, I use moisture meters or thermal imaging to help locate hidden activity. If live termites are located, I avoid unnecessary disturbance so that targeted treatment can be applied effectively.
You should receive a written report that identifies species where possible, maps active and inactive areas, explains entry pathways, and outlines a treatment plan that complies with Australian standards and local expectations.
Treatment options that work in Brisbane homes
Different houses and risk profiles call for different approaches. Most successful programs combine targeted eradication of the live attack with a property wide management system to reduce the chance of re infestation.
Non repellent soil treatments
Non repellent termiticides create a treated zone in soil around the home and at identified entry points. Termites pass through the zone and transfer the active to nest mates which can lead to colony elimination. Correct trenching, rodding, and treatment of slab penetrations is vital.
Compatibility with any existing reticulation system should be checked. Maintenance intervals follow the label and site conditions as noted on the termite management notice required by the Building Code of Australia and explained by the QBCC.
Baiting and monitoring systems
Baits use slow acting actives that termites share through feeding. When placed in the ground and at active sites, baits can eliminate or suppress the attacking colony. They require regular monitoring and replenishment. Baits are a good choice where soil work is impractical or when you want ongoing surveillance around the home.
Dusts and foams for localised activity
Non repellent foams and dusts are useful for treating live activity in voids or within timbers as part of an integrated plan. They are not a stand alone whole property solution. I use them to stop the live attack, then follow with a baiting program or soil treatment to protect the structure.
Physical barriers and reticulation systems
Physical barriers like stainless steel mesh or graded stone are usually installed during construction. For existing homes, reticulation systems can allow termiticide top ups to replenish a chemical zone around the perimeter without extensive re trenching. Any installed system must be maintained per the manufacturer and the inspection interval noted on the termite management notice, which QBCC says should be fixed in a prominent place such as the meter box QBCC.
What it costs and how I quote
Pricing varies with house size, construction type, access, soil conditions, severity and spread of activity, and whether we install a new management system or reinstate an existing one. Integrated programs that combine an initial knockdown of the live attack with a full perimeter solution usually offer the best value for risk reduction.
I provide a written scope that includes product actives, application rates, locations, warranty conditions, service intervals, and inspection schedule. Avoid quotes that are only a single spot spray or a vague treatment without documentation.
Insurance, contracts, and resale
From a seller viewpoint, paperwork and transparency are everything.
- Most standard home insurance policies do not cover termite damage. Confirm your cover and any optional pest add ons. Regardless of cover, notify your insurer of significant damage that may intersect with other claims.
- Keep all documents. File your inspection report, product safety data, installation diagram, and warranty terms. Buyers and their inspectors will ask for them.
- Show the termite management notice location. The Building Code of Australia requires a durable notice that lists the system, installation date, life expectancy of chemicals, and recommended inspection intervals, which the QBCC highlights for Queensland owners.
- Transfer warranties where possible. Many warranties are transferable if you maintain inspection schedules and system top ups per the label.
- Plan your pre sale timeline. After treatment, complete the follow up inspections and secure a clearance letter or updated report before you list. This helps buyers and reduces renegotiation risk.
- Expect buyers to commission a building and pest inspection. Make access easy to the roof void, subfloor, perimeter, and wet areas to speed up their assessment.
Preventive steps after treatment
Termite management is not set and forget. Ongoing inspection and maintenance protect the structure and your resale value.
- Book professional inspections at least yearly, or more often in high hazard areas. The QBCC recommends ongoing inspections and maintenance of your system with frequency stated on the notice.
- Keep slab edges and weep holes visible for inspection. Do not cover slab edges with soil, pavers, or garden beds that bridge the barrier.
- Manage moisture. Fix leaks, maintain gutters and downpipes, and direct air conditioning overflows away from foundations.
- Store timber off the ground and away from the house. Remove old stumps and avoid garden timbers that touch the soil near the structure.
- Maintain reticulation top ups and bait checks on schedule. Missed services can void warranties and reduce protection.
- If you suspect fresh activity, do not disturb evidence. Organise a prompt re-inspection. The Queensland Government clearly advises not to disturb nests or mud tunnels while you wait for professional help.
If you act quickly, avoid disturbing activity, document everything, and install a properly maintained management system, you can stop the current attack and cut the risk of future infestations. That is the outcome buyers look for and the one that protects your biggest asset. Book a professional termite control service today!