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Termite pest control

Termites are a major concern for Australian property owners. Without regular inspection and monitoring, they can cause severe structural damage, often going unnoticed for years. It’s estimated that over 100,000 homes across Australia experience termite attacks annually, leading to costly repairs and a significant drop in property value.

At Rentokil, we offer tailored termite pest control solutions designed to safeguard your home or business. Identifying termite activity early is difficult without expert knowledge. Our licensed timber pest specialists are trained to detect subtle signs of infestation and assess conditions that attract termites, such as moisture, poor ventilation, timber decay, and fungi. We provide clear treatment recommendations and long-term termite control strategies to help reduce the risk of future attacks.

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Signs of termite infestation

Termite infestations can often go unnoticed until significant damage is done. Recognising the early signs of termites is crucial to avoiding costly repairs and property damage. If you notice any of the following signs, it's important to contact a professional for termite pest control to address the issue promptly.

Mud tubes on walls and foundations

One of the most common signs of termites is the presence of mud tubes along walls, foundations, or wooden beams. These tubes allow termites to travel between their colony and food sources. If you spot them, it’s time to call in a termite pest control expert for a thorough inspection.

Hollow-sounding wood

Termites feed on wood from the inside out, leaving the exterior seemingly intact. When you tap on wood and it sounds hollow, it could indicate termite activity. If you suspect an infestation, seeking professional termite pest control is essential to stop further damage.

Discarded wings

During swarming season, termites leave their colonies in search of new nesting sites. As part of this process, they shed their wings. If you find piles of wings around windowsills, doors, or other entry points, termites may be present nearby. A termite pest control specialist can confirm the infestation and begin treatment.

Visible damage to wood structures

Damage to wooden furniture, beams, or door frames that appears unusual could be caused by termites. The damage may show as small holes or tunnels within the wood. If you see this, contacting a termite pest control provider is crucial for assessment and treatment.

Bubbling or peeling paint

Termites can cause paint on wooden surfaces to bubble or peel, often due to moisture from their activity. If you notice this on wood surfaces in your home, it may be time to schedule a termite inspection and treatment.

 

How do I know what type of termite I have?

Termites are generally grouped into three main categories, each with its own distinct behaviours and nesting habits. Understanding these differences helps determine the most effective treatment approach. Correct identification is crucial, as some species cause structural damage faster than others. A professional inspection can pinpoint the type of termite and the scale of the infestation, ensuring the right methods is applied from the start.

The three primary types of termites are:

Subterranean termites are the most commonly encountered termites in Australia. They tunnel underground from the main colony in search of food. They have the ability to build mud shelter tubes to gain access to food sources above ground and utilise this technique to gain access into structures. Wood damaged by this category of termite develops hollow tunnels which run along the grain of wood.

Drywood termites are usually found in tropical regions that experience consistently high humidity. They typically enter structures near the roofline or other exposed wood to begin building a colony. Inspect your roof void for evidence of damaged wood. Look for tiny holes in the wood with evidence of frass collecting nearby. Probing the wood can also expose galleries as well.

Dampwood termites are generally not capable of damaging dry timber so are therefore not considered a significant timber pest of buildings. In nature, this termite is usually discovered in dead trees, decaying stumps, poles in contact with the ground and may occasionally be found in living trees.

Commercial termite pest control solution

Commercial properties require specialised termite pest control strategies that address the unique challenges of larger structures and business environments. Professional pest control services understand that commercial termite control must minimise disruption to business operations while providing defence against these destructive pests. A tailored termite treatment plan for commercial buildings typically begins with a thorough termite inspection to identify existing termite activity, potential entry points, and high-risk areas. 

For commercial clients, termite and pest control solutions often include installing advanced monitoring systems that provide ongoing management. Subterranean termites present significant threats to commercial properties with their ability to cause extensive structural damage before detection. Professional pest control teams can implement a range of control measures, including chemical barriers applied around foundations, termite baiting systems strategically placed to intercept colonies, and physical barriers installed during construction or renovation.

Commercial termite management frequently incorporates customised treatment schedules that minimise business interruption, regularly monitoring termite bait stations to detect early termite activity and applying targeted treatments to address specific termite colonies. Detailed insurance and compliance requirements documentation is provided alongside educational support for staff to recognise early warning signs.Professional pest and termite control experts provide commercial clients with termite management strategies designed to maintain operational continuity and reduce the risk of significant financial loss caused by termite damage.

Proven termite treatments for effective pest control

Termite inspections

The Australian Standards 3660.2 recommends a termite inspection carried out by a fully qualified, trained and competent timber pest inspector at least on an annual basis (and in some cases more frequent) depending on your risk of termites. These are essential for early detection of termite activity.

Termite baiting stations

Designed to scientifically minimise subterranean termite colonies, termite baiting stations exploit termite biology and behaviour. Worker termites take and transfer the bait throughout the nest, tackling termites at the source. Unobtrusive above-ground and in-ground bait stations provide ongoing termite management without causing damage to your property.

Chemical termite barrier treatment

Termite chemical barrier treatment involves liquid chemicals applied to the soil beneath flooring and/or around the perimeter of your property’s foundation. A long-lasting chemical barrier in the soil reduces the risk of concealed termites entering the structure and pushes them out into the open so that a fully trained, qualified and competent timber pest inspector can detect them before they enter your property.

Termite fumigation

Used exclusively for drywood termites, termite fumigation involves preparing and tenting your property and filling the tent with fumigant to treat the infestation. 

Physical termite barrier

A Rentokil physical termite barrier is installed as a layer placed underneath the slab of your property to reduce the risk of concealed termite entry areas and push them out into the open so that a timber pest inspector can detect them before they enter the property. Most suited for those building new homes or extensions, this treatment provides your property with long-term resilience. without the continual use of chemical termiticides.

Termite reticulation system

A termite reticulation system allows for the replenishment of the liquid chemical/termiticide to reinstate the chemical barrier around the foundations of a property by utilising a network of underground pipes. Enabling precise control of chemical application, this treatment is suited for high-risk termite areas and new homes.

Measures to avoid termite infestations

Implementing proactive measures is essential for effective termite pest control and keeping your property safe from costly damage. Start by reducing soil-to-wood contact around your home, which creates easy access points for subterranean termites. Keep mulch, firewood, and garden beds away from your foundation, and ensure proper drainage to reduce moisture accumulation that attracts termites. Regular termite inspection by qualified professionals can detect early signs of termite activity before a full-blown infestation develops.

Consider installing physical or chemical barriers during construction or as retrofitted termite treatment options. Physical obstacles like stainless steel mesh or crushed rock can block termite entry, while chemical barriers create a treated zone around your property. Many pest control services offer termite baiting systems as an alternative approach, with bait stations around your property to intercept termites before they reach your home.

Key measures include:

  • Remove potential food sources by clearing dead trees, stumps, and fallen branches from your property
  • Repair leaking taps and air conditioning units promptly, as termites are attracted to moisture
  • Seal cracks and crevices in your home's foundation to manage entry points
  • Schedule annual termite and pest control inspections to maintain ongoing management
  • Install termite-resistant materials during renovations or new construction
  • Ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces and subfloor areas
  • Direct roof gutters and downpipes away from your home's foundation
  • Maintain at least 10cm clearance between soil and wooden structures

Remember that termite management is significantly more cost-effective than addressing extensive termite damage after multiple termite colonies have established within your property.

Rentokil termite pest control procedure

Pest inspection

We carry out a survey of your sites to assess existing pest problems, future risks, health and safety hazards specific to your environment

  • On-site pest review and consultancy
  • Professional pest management advice and recommendations

Pest treatment

We work with you to develop an integrated pest management program, bespoke to your production

  • Certified service technicians will provide targeted pest treatments and long term long-term management measures..
  • In-depth, industry-specific legislation expertise ensures audit compliance
  • Account management tools to schedule treatments and receive instant updates

Pest disinfection

Ensuring a clean, safe environment post pest infestation

  • Optimal reduction of the spread of infectious pathogens
  • Unique biocidal solution that kills harmful microorganisms
  • Non toxic, non-irritant, non-corrosive
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How to prepare for your termite treatment

Once you’ve booked in with us, see how you can best prepare for our service visit with the below list of prep steps to ensure effective minimisation of termites.

Rentokil your local termite control professionals

All Rentokil technicians are highly qualified and trained to industry standards. Voted Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA) Pest Manager of the Year 2020, our local teams offer a wide range of global innovations and termite control solutions for the most effective outcome.

Termite control expertise

Delivering termite damage management solutions for commercial and residential properties for over 50 years.

Trust the experts
Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA) Pest Manager of the Year. Local, accredited pest controllers
Safe, effective solutions
A broad range of termite management options to suit your business or home needs

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How much does termite control cost?

Your termite control costs will ultimately reflect the time and effort it will take to manage them in your home or business. The first step in determining the cost of termite control is fully understanding the problem. What category of termites are they, subterranean, drywood, or dampwood? Do you require termite management as a precaution, or do active termites need to be addressed? Which parts of the property are affected by termites?

To answer all the above questions, Rentokil will need to visit your property to inspect for termites. Following which, below factors will determine the most suitable termite treatment and its associated costs.

The three types of termite are subterranean (reside in the ground), drywood (nest inside the wood they’re infesting) and dampwood (infest damp and often decaying timber). They have very different habitat requirements and will infest properties in unique ways. Treatment will vary depending on which termite species is identified.

The square footage of your property and premises will have a direct impact on the type of termite treatment used and the number of follow-up treatments required.

If many termites are present, or they are largely established within your property, you may require more extensive treatment. Our treatment may also recommend other solutions such as engaging a plumber to reduce or rectify a drainage problem, or the installation of vents or the removal of scrap timbers found in a subfloor. All this forms part of our termite management solution.

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FAQs

Signs of a termite infestation include mud tubes along walls or foundations, discarded wings, wood damage (such as hollowed-out or sagging wood), and the presence of swarmers (winged termites).

It's crucial to address these infestations promptly because termites can cause significant structural damage to properties, leading to costly repairs if left unchecked. Therefore, if you detect any such signs, contact Rentokil's professional termite pest control services immediately.

Rentokil's termite pest control process begins with an initial inspection of your property, thoroughly searching for breeding grounds and any damage incurred.

Our effective treatment methods include inspection, baiting stations, chemical and physical barrier treatment, termite fumigation, and the termite reticulation system. These approaches are carried out by our local pest experts to ensure minimisation of termite pests.

Yes, Rentokil's termite pest control services are crafted to offer long-term management for your property. Alongside controlling existing termite colonies, we integrate preventive measures like barrier treatments and continuous monitoring to deter future infestations.

Furthermore, our technicians can offer recommendations to minimise conditions that attract termites to your property, ensuring the safety of your property against these destructive pests.

Yes, Rentokil prioritises safety in all our pest control treatments, including those targeting termites. We use products and methods that are approved for residential and commercial use and pose minimal risk to humans, pets, and the environment when applied correctly by trained professionals.

Professional termite pest control services vary based on your property size, infestation severity, and treatment method chosen. Contact us for a customised assessment and detailed quote for your specific termite treatment needs.

The most effective termite and pest control approach combines professional inspection, targeted treatment using chemical barriers or baiting systems, and ongoing monitoring, the optimal method depends on your specific termite infestation, property type, and environmental considerations.

While DIY options exist, professional termite pest control is strongly recommended. Termites require specialised knowledge and equipment for effective control. Professionals can accurately identify termite species, locate colonies, and implement appropriate termite management strategies.