How Significant is the Termite Problem
Our Analysis of Termite Inspections on 3000 Homes Found
22% had active termites on site. Of these, only 4% of properties however, had active termites actually within the dwelling. The remaining 18% were found in fencing, retaining walls or elsewhere in the yard. In addition, only 1.5% of properties inspected had extensive active termite infestation and significant termite damage to the dwelling.
Signs of past termite damage were evident in 45% of all properties inspected. Only 15% however, showed damage to the dwelling itself. Only 36% of properties inspected indicated some form of past termite treatment, yet 86% of properties exhibiting previous damage had been previously treated, suggesting that most treatments for termites are performed as a reactive cure rather than as a preventative measure.
Conditions Conducive to Termite Attack
- 100% of all affected properties had bridged termite barriers.
- 88% of all homes inspected had bridged barriers due to landscaping, paving, building extensions and modifications, pergolas, building in under highset homes, penetrations of the slab, and cladding
- 94% had garden beds covering weep holes allowing easy and concealed access of termites
- 77% had excessive moisture present. Key causes of which included:
Hot water heater or air conditioning outlets not connected to drains or directed away from the dwelling
Defective or missing rain water goods including flashing, guttering and down pipes
Poor site drainage
Poor waterproofing of showers and sinks including cracked tiles and missing sealant