Termites are well known for causing significant damage to property. Typically, this is not covered under your home insurance.
Fortunately, termites can be controlled and removed from a property. In this post, we look at termite checks vs termite inspections. There is a big difference between the two methods in terms of quality.
Recently we performed an inspection on a home in Crestmead. Unfortunately, we found termites. But this is a good thing as we can now stop them.
TERMITE CHECKS
This is not a service specified in any licensing requirements, Australian Standards and/or covered in any industry training programs. Typically, what occurs is that whilst the pest treatment is being performed, contractors will ‘keep an eye out for signs of termite activity. If you’re lucky, you may receive a dedicated ten-minute service or inspection of your property and you may receive a single-page checklist for your troubles. Termite checks should never replace the need for a complete termite inspection. Any termites that failed to be identified during the termite check will have no service provider recourse. It is important to further note that insurance will not cover or protect bodies corporate where a termite check has been conducted, we do not offer Termite Checks but our eyes are always open for evidence of termites and conducive conditions.
TERMITE INSPECTION
A comprehensive, professional pest inspection will take at least 1.5 hours for a smaller house on a concrete slab. Still, larger houses can take much longer, especially if the sub-flooring exists and/or there is significant land surrounding the building. A properly performed termite inspection is not the service a self-respecting professional can provide for free. A termite inspection is a comprehensive inspection of your home and surrounding property.
It’s carried out room by room and includes the roof void, sub-floor, garage and gardens, using a variety of termite detection equipment such as moisture meters, termite radar devices, timber sounding tools, torches ladders and magnifying glasses. Only a fully qualified, licensed and insured pest professional can carry out a termite inspection. You’re protected with a professional termite inspection.
A detailed termite inspection with the resulting comprehensive report can easily be 20+ pages and will include detailed photographs providing site-specific information on termite activity, termite damage, and any conducive conditions that could make a termite attack more likely. The report will also include recommendations to make the property less attractive to termites and treatment options to provide long-term protection. Apart from having all the information on hand to protect your home from termites, having a professional termite inspection from a licensed, insured professional also protects you if the inspector happens to miss something. Their insurance will cover any costs due to any subsequent damage that may occur due to any oversight or error. This is important peace of mind and something you don’t get with a free termite check.’ We perform Termite Inspections as per Australian Standard AS3660 as a minimum.
Arrange an inspection
If you’re concerned about termites, contact us to make a booking today.