Top 4 signs you have termites and how to get rid of them

At Rapid Building Inspections, we know that termites are one of the most destructive timber pests in Australia. They can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of structural damage before you even notice they are there. The key to protecting your property is early detection - and that starts with knowing what to look for.

Why termites are a serious threat

Termites don't rest; they work around the clock silently eating away at timber and other cellulose materials in your home. Because they live hidden in walls, floors, and roof cavities, it’s easy for an infestation to go unnoticed until significant damage has already been done.

How do you know if you have termites?

Common signs of termites include:

1. Hollow sounding timber - if it sounds hollow when tapping on skirting boards, door frames or timber floors, termites might be eating the timber from the inside out. 
2. Mudding - termites build pencil thin mud tunnels to travel from the ground to their source of food whilst staying protected from predators and sunlight. This mudding is often found along walls, foundations, and in crawl spaces.
3. Cracked or bubbling paint - when termites feed on timber inside walls, they can create a build-up of moisture which can cause paint to blister or crack.
4. Termite droppings – some termite breeds such as drywood termites, leave behind tiny sand-like droppings near the area they infest.

How to get rid of termites

Discovering termites in your home can be stressful, but the good news is that with a professional building and pest inspection, you can quickly identify the extent of the problem and take effective action. Termites often go undetected until significant damage is done, as they feed silently behind the walls, under floors, and in roof timbers.

• An experienced inspector will use specialised tools to help detect possible termite activity, locate nests, and help assess how far the infestation has spread.
• Once identified, your inspector will provide you with a detailed building inspection report outlining the areas affected.
• Your report will suggest if further invasive testing or if a chemical pest technician is required. 

Get a building and pest inspection

If you're buying a property, a pre purchase building and pest inspection is the best safeguard against hidden termite damage. For homeowners, regular property inspections provide peace of mind that your investment is protected. Acting early ensures termites are dealt with quickly, possibly saving thousands in repairs and preserving the structural integrity of your home.