It's a concerning reality that homeowners and property investors frequently incur substantial expenses for repairing termite damage. This issue was recognised back in 2016, and with annual inflation, these costs have probably risen. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that termite infestations often remain undetected until they have caused significant damage, requiring expensive renovations.
To prevent such large expenses, it's recommended to arrange a termite inspection promptly.
The Importance of Timber Pest Inspection
Finding termites in a property can understandably lead to panic. Yet, rushing to remove damaged wood or applying household insecticides can be counterproductive.
Such actions may cause the termites to scatter, complicating future efforts to find and eradicate them.
If you suspect termite activity, it is advisable to contact professional termite inspectors right away. Their expertise enables them to evaluate the extent of the infestation, pinpoint potential entry points, and uncover hidden termites. This ensures that preventive measures can be effectively applied at the root of the issue.
If Termites Are Found
If a pre-purchase termite inspection uncovers termite activity, your subsequent actions will depend on the terms outlined in the Offer and Acceptance form. Should an inspection clause be present, you might have the opportunity to negotiate with the seller before completing the purchase. This could mean proceeding with the purchase after necessary repairs and treatments are completed, or opting to cancel the contract.
If the terms require the seller to handle repairs and treatments for termite damage, you should clearly communicate your expectations to the seller or their agent. This ensures that all required termite inspections, treatments, and repairs are completed before you sign the sales contract. If the terms only permit contract termination, you must provide written notice to the seller or their agent according to the contract terms.
These are the potential courses of action in pre-purchase scenarios. If the pest inspection occurs after the sales contract is signed, the inspector may suggest various termite control treatments.
We recommend that you, as the buyer, hire your own pest control company to address the termite activity. This ensures that any warranty is issued in your name rather than the seller’s. The seller might not select the best company for the task and could choose the least expensive treatment available.
When termite activity is detected in a property, a pest control technician might propose various control strategies to eradicate the colony. Eliminating a termite colony involves more than just using chemicals; it requires a combination of techniques and technology to effectively remove the termites from the premises.
Here are some of the treatments that may be recommended for a termite-infested property:
Dusting workings: This method involves applying powdered termiticide to the colony’s workings, requiring a thorough understanding of common entry points.
Above-ground live baiting: If the termite nest is not found during the initial inspection, baiting may be necessary. This is particularly effective for species that quickly take the bait.
Nest treatment: The primary aim of any termite treatment is to eliminate the colony by killing the queen(s). If the nest is difficult to locate, baiting might be employed.
Foaming wall cavities: When the nest’s location is known, a non-repellent termiticide can be applied to the termite workings to eradicate the infestation.
Zone treatment: This long-term strategy involves treating the soil with an APVMA-approved termiticide around the property's perimeter and beneath slabs to prevent future termite entry.
Preventing Termite Damage Through Vigilance
Real estate owners and investors are advised to arrange for termite inspections both prior to and following the purchase of a property. With almost 300 termite species in the nation, it is possible for one to invade your property without being noticed. To avert major damage from these destructive insects, proactive steps are essential in safeguarding your property.
For assistance in this process, feel free to reach out to our team. We're committed to helping you fortify your property against even the most aggressive termites.
