Have You Had Your Termite Inspection Done? Protect Your Sydney Home

When should I have a termite inspection done in Sydney?

You should schedule your first inspection as soon as you move into a new property. After that, stick to a regular schedule aligned with national standards.

Sydney’s warm, moist conditions make termites active year-round — ideal for foraging and nesting. The Australian Environment Protection Agency notes termites cause over $1.5 billion in property damage nationally each year, with 30% of claims in NSW alone.

Early detection cuts treatment costs by up to 70% compared to fixing established infestations (Source: Australian Pest Control Association 2025).

For a full inspection, Contact Sydney’s Best Pest Control.

How often should termite inspections be done?

Australian Standard AS 3660.2 sets the minimum frequency at once every 12 months. But some properties need more frequent checks.

When to inspect more often

• Homes with timber foundations or decks: every 6 months
• Properties within 50 metres of trees or bushland: every 6 months
• Homes with past termite activity: every 3–6 months
• New builds or renovations: inspect within 3 months of completion

We recently treated a Northern Beaches home that skipped 2 inspections — repairs cost $14,000. A scheduled check would have cost under $250 and caught it early.

Ready to book your check? Call 1800 819 189 for same-day service across Greater Sydney.

Common misconceptions about termites — what you need to know

Myth: Termite damage is obvious

Fact: Termites eat wood from the inside out. By the time you see surface signs, structural damage may already be done. 65% of Sydney homes we inspect show hidden activity (Pest Control Sydney internal data 2026).

Myth: Termites only come out in spring and summer

Fact: Termites forage 365 days a year. Swarm flights happen in warmer months, but feeding and nesting continue through winter underground or inside walls.

Myth: Termite prevention is difficult

Fact: Simple regular maintenance lowers risk drastically:

• Clean gutters and downpipes regularly
• Remove dead trees and fallen branches near walls
• Store firewood 30cm off the ground and away from your home
• Fix leaks in roofs, pipes and taps straight away
• Get a professional inspection every year

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an inspection if I have brick walls?

Yes — termites enter through expansion joints, pipes and foundations. 40% of infestations in Sydney brick homes start unseen.

How long does an inspection take?

30–90 minutes for an average home. We check accessible timbers, exterior areas, subfloor and surrounds.

Can I inspect for termites myself?

You can look for signs, but trained technicians use moisture meters and thermal checks to find hidden activity.

Is termite inspection required for home sales in NSW?

Not legally mandatory, but buyers and banks almost always request a report under AS 3660 standards.

ow often should I have a termite inspection?

Most homes should have a professional termite inspection at least once every 12 months. Properties in high-risk areas or with a history of termite activity may require more frequent inspections based on the technician’s recommendations.

Why are annual termite inspections important?

Termites work silently inside timber and hidden areas, often causing damage before homeowners notice any warning signs. Regular inspections help detect termite activity early, reducing the likelihood of expensive structural repairs.

Can I have termites without seeing them?

Yes. Subterranean termites usually remain hidden inside timber, walls, roof voids or beneath flooring. Many infestations are only discovered during professional inspections using specialist knowledge and equipment.

What happens during a termite inspection?

A professional termite inspection generally includes:

• Inspection of accessible internal and external areas
• Checking subfloors and roof voids where accessible
• Looking for termite activity, damage and mud tubes
• Identifying moisture problems and conducive conditions
• Providing a written report with findings and recommendations

What are the signs I need a termite inspection?

Arrange an inspection if you notice:

• Hollow-sounding timber
• Mud shelter tubes
• Tight-fitting doors or windows
• Bubbling or damaged paint
• Discarded termite wings
• Timber that appears blistered or damaged

Even without these signs, annual inspections are still recommended because termites are often hidden.

Does a termite barrier replace inspections?

No. Even homes with a termite management system or barrier should continue to receive regular inspections. Barriers reduce risk but do not eliminate the need for ongoing monitoring.