Termite Damage in Homes

What Buyers Need to Know

Termites cause more damage to Australian homes each year than fire, floods and storms combined — and often without homeowners knowing until it’s too late. At True Inspect, we conduct thorough, standard-compliant termite inspections as part of every pre-purchase building and pest inspection to help you avoid costly surprises.

What Are Termites and Why Are They a Problem?

Termites are small insects that feed on cellulose in timber. The most destructive types, subterranean termites, live underground and silently eat through structural wood. Because they thrive in dark, humid environments and remain hidden, termite damage can progress for years undetected — weakening beams, joists, and walls.

In ideal conditions, a colony can seriously damage a home’s roof or walls in under three months. With termite damage often excluded from insurance policies, early detection is critical. Our inspections help you identify risks early, so you’re not left with expensive repairs after you move in.

What Causes Termite Infestation?

Our inspectors regularly identify the following risk factors:

  • High moisture levels from poor drainage or leaks
  • Wood-to-soil contact (e.g. garden beds, mulch, tree stumps near walls)
  • Poor subfloor ventilation
  • Lack of termite barriers or use of untreated timber
  • Stored firewood, timber debris or old sleepers close to the house

These conditions create a pathway for termites to enter undetected. In our reports, we highlight these “conducive conditions” and recommend practical solutions to reduce your risk.

What We Look for During Inspection

Our inspectors are trained to detect subtle signs of termite activity, even before major damage occurs. We look for:

  • Mud tubes on foundations or timber (shelter tunnels used by termites)
  • Frass (termite droppings), resembling sawdust or fine sand
  • Hollow or papery-sounding wood when tapped
  • Blistering paint, warped timbers, or sagging floors
  • Discarded wings from swarming termites near windows or lights

We inspect the subfloor, roof void, interior walls, timber trims, gardens, fencing, and site perimeter. Advanced tools like moisture meters, sounding devices and thermal imaging help us find concealed activity.

How Serious Is Termite Damage?

That depends on:

  • Whether active termites are present
  • The extent and location of damage
  • Whether structural elements (e.g. floor framing or load-bearing walls) are affected

Sometimes damage is minor (e.g. old termite activity in garden timber) and manageable with treatment and repairs. In serious cases, repairs may involve replacing structural components, treating the infestation, and preventing recurrence. Repair costs can be significant — with an estimated $1.5 billion spent annually across Australia.

What Happens After the Inspection?

Our inspectors provide a detailed, buyer-friendly report, following AS 4349.3-2010 (Australian Standard for Timber Pest Inspections). It includes:

  • Descriptions and photographs of any termite activity or damage
  • Identification of high-risk areas or conducive conditions
  • Advice on whether further investigation, treatment, or repair is needed
  • Clear next steps, including referrals to pest control or builders if necessary

We’ll walk you through the findings and explain what’s urgent and what’s manageable. You’ll leave with a clear plan — not fear.

What Should Buyers Do If Termites Are Found?

If we find active termites or significant damage, you may:

  • Negotiate with the seller to fix the issue or adjust the price
  • Engage a pest professional for immediate treatment
  • Request a follow-up inspection for inaccessible or suspect areas
  • Choose to walk away, depending on the severity

If you do proceed, you’ll be equipped to handle repairs and prevention, such as installing termite barriers or improving site drainage. Our role is to help you make that decision with full knowledge of the situation.

Trust True Inspect with Your Pre-Purchase Termite Assessment

We take termite risk seriously — and so should every homebuyer. By combining experience, technology and Australian Standards compliance, True Inspect delivers clarity when you need it most. Every inspection is thorough, impartial, and designed to give you confidence before you commit.

For more information, download the full information pack on Termite Damage in Homes

This detailed guide includes technical standards, inspection procedures, risk factors, and what to do if termites are found.