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How often do I need a termite inspection?

How often do I need a termite inspection?

How often do I need a termite inspection?

Subterranean termites are the main species of termites in Adelaide, and these highly destructive creatures are notorious for causing substantial damage to homes and businesses. The best way to prevent them from costing you expensive repairs is to have an effective termite management plan in place.

While we strongly advise having physical or chemical barriers installed at your property, the most important way to prevent termites is by scheduling regular professional termite inspections. 

If you’re due for a termite inspection or wondering how frequently you need to have one, we answer the 4 of the most commonly asked questions about this all-important step in protecting your home.

What questions will this article answer?

Why do I need more than one termite inspection?

Most homes and businesses in Adelaide have a termite management system in place, usually through modern and up-to-date physical and chemical barriers, which are highly successful at keeping termites away.

However, like many things in life, they aren’t permanent. Physical termite barriers are designed to last an average of 20 or more years and chemical barriers 8 or more years. As termites are persistent pests, they may still be able to find small gaps and crevices to penetrate the barriers and enter your home.

That’s why part of an effective termite management system involves having not only termite barriers, but also making sure that they are still doing their job properly.

Having regular, ongoing termite inspections by a licensed professional to identify early signs of termite breaches means that you can act quickly to stop termites from causing damage to your home.

How often should you have a termite inspection in Adelaide?

Subterranean termites are the most common species of termites found in Adelaide. They live underground and are known to cause substantial damage to timber structures. To minimise your risk of an attack, it’s recommended that you have an annual routine termite inspection by a licensed professional.

Australian national guidelines for termite inspection

The CSIRO recommends following the advice which is outlined by the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA) to determine how regularly your property requires termite inspections.

These guidelines state that termite inspections should be conducted at least annually, if not more frequently, depending on:

  • The type of termite species present
  • The type of building construction
  • Whether or not there are particular physical or environmental risk factors which predispose a termite attack
  • Geographical region
  • Previous termite damage within or surrounding the property

Cooler weather in Adelaide draws termites indoors

Areas with warm, humid climates and dense vegetation – such as Sydney and Brisbane – possess ideal breeding conditions for termites.

However, for a city like Adelaide, which is generally cooler, this means that termites are more likely to seek warmth indoors – most likely within the walls of your home.

At Allstate, we use a combination of traditional tools and modern technology to identify even the smallest signs of termite activity inside your home during your annual termite inspection.

Don’t risk termite damage to your home, book your annual termite inspection today

or

When should I get a termite inspection if I have a pest barrier?

Given that physical and chemical termite pest barriers are designed to last between 8 and 20 years, it’s helpful to make sure that they remain effective over their lifespan. Whether you’re purchasing an existing home or building a new one, you may want to consider an independent, expert opinion on whether your level of termite protection is adequate.

Newer homes

According to the National Construction Code, it’s compulsory for all new homes to have built-in termite protection. However, it also states that termite activity may still occur even with the presence of a termite management system.

These persistent pests have even been known to penetrate treated timber, steel roofing and even electrical wiring.

Having ongoing termite activity means that regular termite inspections are still necessary to identify any breaches to your barriers. Our inspection reports will detail termite barrier maintenance recommendations to safeguard your new home from any potential damage.

    Check the integrity of an existing termite pest barrier

    Making sure that you have a reliable termite pest barrier installed is the best way to safeguard you and your family from the threat of a termite outbreak.

    If you’re buying an existing home, or living in an older home, it’s important to check for potential termite risk factors, previous damage and that the termite protection plan for the property is up-to-date and adheres to Australian Standards.

    At Allstate, we offer pre-purchase termite inspections and quotes to update existing termite barriers, allowing you peace of mind before making these important financial decisions.

    We’ll make sure your home is safe from termites

    or

    How much does a termite inspection cost?

    You can have a comprehensive termite inspection with Allstate starting from $198. For larger homes and properties, or more complex inspections requiring additional equipment, an extra fee may be charged. Please contact Allstate on 8371 1277 and speak to one of our friendly consultants to arrange a free quote.

    Protect your home with regular termite inspections

    At Allstate, have seen firsthand the damage and heartbreak caused by a termite infestation. 

    The good news is that this can be avoided through regular, routine termite inspections of your property. We understand that you’re busy, so we’re happy to work around your schedule.

    Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, our team of licensed termite inspectors is highly trained to detect the early, subtle signs of termite activity around your home. We always conduct our inspections in accordance with Australian Standards. 

    With the assistance of a range of modern equipment, we have the expertise to identify the presence of high risk factors so that we can determine the likelihood of an outbreak. 

    We’ll make sure that all of our observations and findings are communicated to you in a clear, concise report so that you stay up to date with keeping your family safe from termites.

    About Allstate

    Since 1986, we’ve helped many homes and businesses around Adelaide stay termite-free through with through a range of services. Alongside our thorough inspections, we also install pre-construction termite barriers and offer high quality, long lasting treatments to prevente any outbreaks.

    We offer payment plans to make sure that you don’t have to miss out on any important inspections. To make sure that you’re completely satisfied, all of our services come with a 100% money back guarantee.

    If you’re due for a termite inspection or noticing signs of termites around your home, speak to a friendly Allstate consultant today.

    Don’t delay your annual termite inspection, make an appointment now

    or

    Rodent Service

    Rodent Service

    How to prepare for your Rodent Control Service

    1

    Carry out a general housekeeping, tidy out clutters as much as you can to maximise the treatment areas.
    (Clutters might prevent our technicians to apply treatment in some sections of your premises and dirt might reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.)

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    2

    Clear possible areas that our technicians might need access to install rodent baits: enclosed roof spaces, enclosed sub floors, cupboards and behind furniture.

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    3

    If you are pet owners, please ensure that your pet is either safely isolated or away from the areas to be serviced until the technician has left the area.

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    Got Questions? Speak to one of our rodent control experts now

    or

    We’re looking forward to providing you with a safe and effective treatment. Please take the following steps before your technician’s arrival.

    1

    Carry out general housekeeping, clean bench tops and floors, and declutter. This helps us maximise treatment in the targeted areas. Clutter can prevent us from applying treatment in some sections of your premises and dirt can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

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    2

    Keep all doors and windows closed until the spray has dried.

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    3

    If you have a fishpond, please advise our technician on arrival. Our products are harmful to aquatic life and we will need to take extra precautions.

    pond
    4

    You and other occupants can stay inside the premises, but far enough away from the area of pesticide application.

    Our treatments are not safe for those with respiratory complaints, pregnant women, babies and toddlers. In this situation, we highly recommend evacuating the property for a minimum of 2 hours after treatment is completed.

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    5

    Ensure any pets are safely isolated or kept away from the treated areas until they are dry.

    pets

    Termite Protection

    Termite Protection

    Welcome to Allstate’s fact-hive, where we answer your buzzing questions about pests.

    We are always here to help you stay protected against tiny intruders into your home or business. For more facts or help with a pest problem, you can chat to us by clicking the quote-icon or by calling 8371 1277.

    Termite inspections

    Is it worth paying for termite protection?

    Termite damage can be a major issue for property owners. These small insects damage property by eating wood and other organic materials and can be hard to detect until the damage is extensive.

    So, you should consider termite protection to reduce the risk of future damage and significant property loss.

    Do termite barriers really work?

    Termite barriers do work. Products like Kordon Termite Barrier contain a repellent that prevents termites from gaining entry to the property. The termites will build tunnels to seek food elsewhere, which a professional pest controller can quickly and easily detect.

    How effective are barriers for termites?
    Termite barriers are generally effective in preventing termite infestation, and are highly effective when it comes to controlling the movement of the pests.

    There are a variety of termite barriers available, including chemical and physical. The most effective barrier may vary depending on your home’s location, age, and risk factors.

    How long do termite barriers last?
    The lifetime of a barrier for termites is dependent on the design and installation of the barrier and the interior and exterior environment.

    You may need to speak with your pest controller to determine what kind of barrier is installed on your property, how long it is expected to last, and what warranties protect the installation.

    Do termite bait stations really work?
    Termite bait stations are an effective and affordable option, but they are not a set-and-forget solution.

    If you opt for bait stations to control termites, your professional pest controller will advise how frequently the stations need to be inspected.

    What is the best deterrent for termites?

    Termites can be very invasive and destructive, so prevention and protection are crucial.

    The best option for you will vary depending on your home and location. Generally, pre-construction ps and baiting stations like Sentricon are the best options.

    When you combine one of these with annual inspections and great property maintenance, your home will be well protected.

    What do termites hate the most?
    Many home remedies are suggested as termite deterrents because “termites hate it”, but in many cases, these solutions cause more harm than good.

    Termite baits and insecticides implemented by a professional pest controller contain deterrents that are safe and proven to be effective.

    What smells keep termites away?
    Research is still being conducted into scents that deter termites.

    But strong smelling plants, such as catnip, mint, and geraniums, may act as a deterrent while enhancing your home.

    What naturally keeps termites away?
    Various natural substances may discourage termites, including eucalyptus, orange, lemon, peppermint, basil, geranium, catnip, yarrow, lavender, sage, ginger, thyme, clove, cinnamon, camphor, peppermint, benzoin, cypress, citronella, and pepper.

    But the most effective natural deterrents include the lack of food (e.g. removing dead plants), lack of water (e.g. dry conditions), and lack of shelter (e.g. dry, wide, open surfaces).

    Does a new house need termite protection?

    If the house is new, the foundation should be protected by a termite barrier.

    Are new houses termite proof?
    Most houses need termite protection. If you bought your home from a builder who applied a chemical-based termite treatment, it already has termite protection.

    If you bought the house from a previous owner and it is one of the following types of homes, you will need to get protection: wood-frame construction, block, or brick; or a section of a house that is regularly exposed to the ground.

    If no termite treatment has been applied to the house, get a termite inspection and treatment right away. There is a chance that termites already exist in the house and can cause extensive damage before you know they are there.

    Is preventative termite treatment necessary?
    Preventative measures can make a substantial difference when it comes to termites. By acting preventatively through maintaining your property and installing termite control measures, you considerably lower your risk of a termite infestation.

    Our expert termite protection team is ready to help you now

    or

    Termite Protection

    Termite Inspections

    Welcome to Allstate’s fact-hive, where we answer your buzzing questions about pests.

    We are always here to help you stay protected against tiny intruders into your home or business. For more facts or help with a pest problem, you can chat to us by clicking the quote-icon or by calling 8371 1277.

    Termite inspections

    Termites are a common pest in many parts of Australia, and with termite infestations 5 times more likely than housefires, homeowners need to protect their properties from the damage these pests can cause.
    Inspections are an excellent way to provide information about the status of your property and what needs to be done to keep termites away.
    These tiny insects can wreak havoc on your home. They eat away at the wood and other materials, leaving you with expensive repairs or even demolition. Termites can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, around windows, doors and pipes.

    Frequent inspections will ensure that infestations do not escalate and develop into significant problems. It’s important to remain vigilant and take steps now to avoid costly repairs in the future.

    Is a termite inspection worth it?

    To determine if a termite inspection is worth it, you should weigh the cost of the inspection itself against the cost of possible remediation from a termite infestation.

    Termites feed on wood, paper, cardboard, and other cellulose. If they’re present, you need to reduce their numbers before they eat away your home. They’re also a significant problem for rural properties due to livestock.

    The cost of termite damage can quickly number into the thousands and be irreparable in some cases.

    Should you get a termite inspection?
    Termites always present a risk to the home and property owners. The problem is made worse because termites can go undetected for a very long time.

    That’s why it’s so critical to educate homeowners about the problem and provide them with a range of termite solutions.

    An inspection should be done by a professional who spends time listening for termites, checking the foundation and woodwork, and generally evaluating the property for pests and signs of infestation.

    This inspection can take as little as an hour, and it provides the information necessary to decide whether pest control or a prevention strategy is needed.

    Is it worth getting termite treatment?
    Termite treatment is not only effective but also affordable. Some treatments will even protect your home for up to thirty years.

    Professional treatment is the best way to guard your home against future infestation. A professional pest controller can determine which method of treatment and control will work best for your situation.

    What should a termite inspection include?

    A termite inspection is undertaken by a qualified and experienced technician. Your technician can then provide you with a full report stating the termite inspection has been carried out according to Australian Standard 366.0.2.2000.

    During an inspection, the technician should check every area of your property, including interiors, roof voids, subfloors, exteriors, outbuildings, and the grounds. To ensure a thorough inspection, the technician should use a variety of techniques and tools.

    What do termite inspection reports look for?
    Termite inspection reports look for the presence of termites, evidence of a past infestation, and any structural damage from previous infestation.

    What are some signs of a termite infestation?
    You can look out for some signs, including dropped termite wings, sawdust, frass, mud tubes, stacked soil or nests.

    But in most cases, a visual inspection is not enough. With a visual only, 80% of signs and damage can be missed. That’s why we use technology such as moisture meters, borescopes, baits, and more, to uncover termites before the damage is done.

    What is a termite assessment?

    A termite assessment is the same as an inspection. An assessment can give you vital information about the state of termites and their damage in your home and help you prevent future infestations.

    Why do I need a professional termite inspection?

    Termites are incredibly destructive pests that can cause severe damage to your home and property. They can be particularly dangerous for homes in coastal areas, where termites can feed on the wood framing and cause significant damage to the house’s structure.

    There is no way of knowing if you have termites until they have already done visible damage without professional inspections.

    With up-to-date training and technology, including thermal imaging, a pest controller can quickly and easily detect hidden termite nests within and around the home.

    How much does a termite inspection cost?
    At Allstate, we offer detailed termite inspections conducted by our qualified and experienced technicians from $198. Call us today to receive your guaranteed price, including a free assessment for treatment.

    How often should you have a termite inspection?
    For most homes, a termite inspection should be undertaken every year. After your first inspection, your pest technician can advise you on the frequency best suited for your risk factors.

    How much does it cost to termite-proof a house?
    The cost to termite-proof a property varies depending on many factors, including the control method used, upkeep requirements, and more.

    But with Australians paying up to $1 billion every year repairing termite damage, the cost of proofing the home is negligible.

    For an assessment and quote, contact Allstate today.

    What is a pre-purchase termite inspection?

    A pre-purchase inspection is one way to avoid future problems. The inspection should occur before or at the same time as other home inspections so that any termites will be found and fixed before the buyers move in.

    What happens if you don’t get termite inspections?

    Termites are a common pest that can cause significant damage to the structure of your home.

    Typically, termites nest outside, hidden in trees or woodpiles. However, they may also be found indoors in moist areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where they can pose significant health risks.

    Termites feed on the cellulose in the wood of your home, which can lower the structural integrity if not monitored or controlled with routine inspections. Over time, the damage that termites cause can be expansive and costly.

    Our expert termite protection team is ready to help you now

    or

    Your Guide to Termite Protection for New Homes

    Your Guide to Termite Protection for New Homes

    YOUR GUIDE TO TERMITE PROTECTION FOR NEW HOMES

     

    There are over 350 known species of termites active in Australia. With many parts of Adelaide at high risk of termite attacks, you don’t want your dream home falling victim to them. Also known white ants, these pests are capable of chewing through walls, ceilings, floors and even electrical wiring, and if left unchecked could put the damage bill in the hundreds of thousands. Fortunately, a termite management can protect your new home before the foundations are even laid.

    If you’re building a new home and concerned about termite outbreaks, we’ve prepared this helpful guide to explain how termite protection is installed and the different types of termite management systems used in pre-construction.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Why does my new home need termite protection?

    Many parts of Australia are considered to have a high risk of termite infestations, and Adelaide is no exception.

    An estimated one in five Adelaide homes have fallen victim to termite attacks, resulting in treatment and repair bills averaging $10,000 and major disruptions to households. That’s why it’s well worth the investment to prevent them from entering in the first place.

    Why are termites so drawn to buildings? 

    Because they feed on cellulose-rich materials such as timber, which is a key component in most homes. Termites are able to quietly dig complex underground tunnels and gain entry into your house through tiny cracks and crevices.

    Once they’re inside, they can cause significant damage, affecting your walls, floors and ceilings. You’ll notice cracks, blisters, sagging floors, warped door frames, bubbling or honeycomb patterns appearing in paint. Electrical wiring can also be affected.

    What’s worse is that termite-related damage is not covered by home and contents insurance as it is deemed highly preventable. 

    The best way to reduce your risk of a termite outbreak is by choosing termite-resistant materials for construction, and having correctly installed and well-maintained termite barriers.

    Anxious to protect your new home? Speak our termite protection experts

    or

    Is termite protection mandatory?

    Yes, there are specific termite risk management guidelines which are outlined by the National Construction Code.

    Your new home is required to have a built-in termite management system, or be built with materials which are termite resistant. This is because termites can damage every room of your home, including the electrical wiring. Even treated timber or steel roofing is not immune to a termite attack.

    Regular inspections and maintenance of the termite management system are also important.

      How can I protect my new home from termites?

      At Allstate, we have a thorough understanding of termite behaviour and feeding habits. Using this knowledge and many years’ experience, we’ve adopted several effective ways to safeguard your home from destructive termites.

      Waterproofing and side slab moisture protection

      Concrete slabs must be water resistant, as internal moisture can attract termites.

      The exposed side edges of concrete slab foundations are most vulnerable to the elements, particularly water and dampness. Dampness shows up as efflorescence, a condition where white coloured crystalline deposits of salt and minerals remain on the surface of building surfaces.

      We recommend using waterproofing compounds to treat the concrete slab during the construction stage. Many of these compounds offer excellent protection from moisture:

      • Ardex WPM 300: this can be applied directly to freshly laid concrete.
      • Deep Cure: this penetrates inside the slab, forming a gel which helps to retain water and stop excess moisture from seeping in.
      • Homeguard Protectacote: this Bifenthrin based termite barrier is applied around the perimeter of new concrete slabs and extensions. 
      • Xypex concentrate: this product is active within the pores of the concrete to produce a non-soluble crystalline compound, which blocks the water from penetrating inside

      Chemical reticulation systems

      Whether you’re adding a house extension or building a new granny flat on your property, Australian building standards state that you will need to add a termite barrier between the foundation of your existing home and new concrete slab. The barrier must be easily replenished with termiticide so that it remains effective.

      This is where a reticulation system is useful. It consists of a network of pipes which are carefully positioned underground and around key areas of your property. The system is designed to continuously discharge termiticide into the soil to deter termite activity.

      At Allstate, we choose to use Termidor, which needs to be topped up every 3-5 years.

      Concrete curing

      The concrete slab is the all-important foundation for your new home. Cement must be carefully laid out and then allowed adequate time to set properly so that it reacts with moisture to form a dense, tough and strong concrete base.

      This way there will also be less surface cracking, which can introduce a potential entry point for termites.

      At Allstate, we recommend using Rendacure to cure your new concrete slab. This water-based product can either be sprayed or rolled onto freshly laid concrete. It is a convenient choice as Rendacure will not delay other tradespeople from working at your building site.

      Protect your dream home from termite damage. Get a free quote today.

      or

      Kordon termite barriers

      At Allstate, we are certified Kordon installers and recommend it as our preferred pre-construction termite and moisture barrier for concrete slabs.

      How Kordon is installed

      Sheets of Kordon are placed between the bedding sand and steel reinforcing mesh layers, with cement for the slab poured over the top. Once this has been successfully completed, you’ll be issued with Certificate of Installation, also known as a termite treatment certificate.

      Benefits of using Kordon

      Kordon is an innovative termite barrier that has been shown to provide the best long term chemical and physical defence against the concealed entry of subterranean termites when installed correctly.

      Made in Adelaide and patented by Bayer, one of the world’s largest environmental science companies, Kordon has been tested extensively by the CSIRO over more than two decades with a 100% success rate.

      It is highly flexible, suitable for all building applications, excellent for high-risk areas, allergen-free and non-hazardous.

      Does Kordon have a warranty?

      If you choose Kordon, there are different types of termite warranty available on your new house.

      Homes installed with Kordon are covered for six years for termite entry and damage by the Limited Kordon Product Warranty.

      The Bayer Protection Program offers a $1 million warranty for a period of 12 months, which can be renewed annually, for homes that have been installed with a complete Kordon Termite Management System.

      Designed to last for 50 years, Kordon guarantees comprehensive termite protection to your new home right from the beginning.

      How it works

      Kordon acts as both a physical and chemical barrier against termites, as it contains an active ingredient known as deltamethrin, a type of pyrethroid termiticide, sandwiched between two layers of flexible and durable UV stable, low density polyethylene plastic webbing.

      Termites are forced to build visible mud tubes in obvious areas to avoid the Kordon, alerting your termite inspector to their presence so that they can take action to remove them before they cause significant damage.

      Get reliable termite protection for your new home

      Protecting your new home from a termite outbreak starts well before the foundation is laid, and your investment will likely spare you from expensive repair and treatment bills in the future. 

      Allstate has a dedicated construction team headed by licensed builder Aaron Thompson, who oversees all of our new build installations. All team members are highly trained with a thorough knowledge of termite behaviour, South Australian building regulations and Australian Standards for termite protection to ensure that your new home is safe for years to come.

      When you choose Allstate to for concrete slab termite protection, our team can work and communicate effectively with all tradespeople on site to ensure there are no disruptions. Just as we protect home owners from the threat of termites, we protect builders’ reputation from termite-related issues.

      We only use high quality products that once installed are non-toxic towards children, pets and the environment. We have payment plans available, long term warranty on our termite barriers, and a 100% money back guarantee on all of our services.

      If you’re after comprehensive termite protection solutions for your new home, Allstate is here to help.

      Our expert termite protection team is ready to help you now

      or