Found Termites? What to Do Next
Finding termites can be stressful, but there’s usually no need to do anything immediately. The most useful thing you can do is leave the area as undisturbed as possible. Keeping the termites and evidence sheltered and undisturbed helps us properly assess the situation.
What to Do
If you find termites or something you suspect may be termite activity:
Leave them undisturbed. If possible, carefully put back anything you moved when you discovered them.
Don’t spray or treat them yourself. Killing the termites you can see is unlikely to resolve the underlying problem and may interfere with further assessment or treatment.
Take photos. Photos of the termites, damage or material you’ve found can be useful. You can text them to us on 0434 001 617.
Arrange a termite inspection. The property should be inspected to determine whether there is other evidence of termite activity or damage.
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The termites you find in a building are usually only a small part of a much larger colony. Spraying the termites you can see can interfere with our ability to assess the activity and may make effective colony treatment more difficult.
Effective termite treatment is generally aimed at addressing the termite infestation rather than simply killing the termites visible at the point of discovery. Keeping an active area undisturbed can also provide useful information when the property is inspected and treatment options are considered.
What Happens Next?
The first step is usually a termite inspection of the property. We’ll look for evidence of termite activity and damage, possible entry points, and other areas that may be affected.
Depending on what we find, we may recommend:
Treatment of active termites - called a colony control treatment
Further investigation of concealed or suspicious areas, which may include an invasive inspection or specialised detection methods
Repairs or assessment by a builder where significant damage is present
A termite management plan to reduce the risk of further termite attack
We’ll explain what is relevant to your property and why before recommending further work.
Found something you're concerned about?
Contact us to arrange a termite inspection, or send us a photo of what you've found on 0434 001 617.
Already Booked an Inspection?
There’s very little you need to do beforehand. Leave any suspected termite activity undisturbed and take a look at our Termite Inspection Guide for simple preparation information.