Residential pest inspection: annual peace of mind

Annual check on existing home

You have lived in the property for a year or more. Time for the annual review. AS 3660.2 recommends 12-monthly minimum. Higher-pressure suburbs (Adelaide Hills, foothills, creek-adjacent) consider 6-monthly.

After spotting signs of activity

Hollow-sounding skirting board, frass under a window, a mud trail on a foundation, a swarm of winged termites in spring. Book an inspection before assuming the worst, and definitely before treating.

Termite barrier annual recheck

You have a chemical or physical termite barrier under warranty. Most warranties require an annual professional inspection to remain valid. The inspection report becomes part of your warranty documentation.

Before extensions or renovations

You are planning to extend, renovate, or convert a subfloor / roof void into living space. An inspection now identifies any existing activity or damage before plaster goes up.

New landlord cycle

You have inherited a property or just bought a rental. Document the condition with an inspection before tenants move in. Repeat annually to support insurance claims if activity arises later.

After major storms or floods

A major storm or flood event has soaked the subfloor or roof void. Sustained moisture above 20% creates conducive conditions for termite activity within 3-12 months. Inspect, ventilate, dry, then re-inspect.

Inside the house

• Roof void: framing, sarking, plumbing penetrations

• Ceilings, cornices, internal walls

• Skirtings, architraves, door frames

• Window frames and reveals

• Wet areas: bathrooms, kitchen, laundry

• Built-in cabinetry where accessible

Outside and around

• Subfloor (if accessible): bearers, joists, stumps, ventilation, moisture

• External walls, weep holes, slab edges

• Eaves, fascia, soffit linings

• Outbuildings, decks, pergolas

• Fences, sleepers, retaining walls

• Garden beds, mulch, tree stumps within 50 m