How often should you get a termite inspection?
Waiting until you see damage is waiting too long. Here's the honest answer on inspection timing.
Get a Free Pest Control QuoteThe short answer: at least once a year
The widely accepted standard for Australian homes is a professional termite inspection at least once a year. In higher-risk areas — homes close to bushland, on newer estates with fresh landscaping, or with a history of termite activity — every six to twelve months is more sensible. Much of Western Sydney falls into that higher-risk bracket.
Why annual, and not 'when I see something'
Termites cause damage silently. An annual inspection is designed to catch activity and the conditions that attract termites before they become an expensive repair. It's a small, predictable cost that protects one of your largest assets — and it gives you a written record year to year.
What a thorough inspection covers
A proper inspection isn't a quick walk-around. It should include the interior, the subfloor where accessible, the roof void, the exterior and the garden, plus moisture readings and a check for the damp, timber-to-ground contact and other conducive conditions that draw termites in. You should receive a clear written report of the findings.
Frequently asked questions
Does a new home need inspections too?
Yes. New builds sit on freshly turned, irrigated ground that can attract subterranean termites, and a building warranty is not the same as ongoing protection. Annual inspections still apply.
How long does an inspection take?
For a typical home, usually somewhere around an hour, depending on size and access. You'll get the findings explained and a written report.