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Home ownership is a significant investment, and you want to be sure that you are doing everything you can to proactively maintain your property, inside and out. This is especially true when it comes to Termites. There are more than 300 Termite species in Australia, with Subterranean termites the culprits of majority of the termite damage. Sometimes referred to as ‘White Ants’ these particular types of termites nest in the ground and eat materials with high cellulose content which is why homes are such a target for them with the frequent use of timber building materials throughout our properties.
Subterranean Termites can enter your property and cause significant damage even before there are obvious visible signs that they are present. That is why it is best to take proactive steps to ensuring that should termite activity occur, it is discovered early and treated effectively.
So, what can you do?
First and foremost, make sure that you have your home regularly inspected. With a SWOT Termite Inspection, all areas of your home and property will be checked in accordance with Australian Standard 3660-2.2017 which recommends inspections to be no more than 12 months apart. For homes where there was been previous termite activity inspections should be completed on a 6 monthly basis.
In between inspections you can do the following to minimise risk to your property:
· Ensure that any areas of moisture are minimised or fixed – including leaks, drainage issues etc.
· Ensure garden beds are away from the edges of buildings, and not covering weepholes.
· Do not store items such as timbers under your home.
· Try to avoid having timber in contact with the ground and/or close to the house. If possible, remove it, if not monitor frequently.
· Ensure in and around your home is well ventilated.
Another great option available is the installation of a Termite Monitoring, Interception & Baiting Systems. They are an effective method of assessing termite activity on your property.
The system uses a series of pods (such as those pictured) installed discreetly around your home and monitored throughout the course of year with 6 monthly termite inspections and regular monitoring visits. Even if your property has never had an incidence of Termite activity we highly recommend installing one of these systems as an extra tool to ensure that activity, should it occur, is caught as soon as possible.
Think you've found a termite nest or suspected activity in your home?
Here's what we recommend:
1. Do not disturb the area – This is crucial as it is best to leave the area as is for an accurate inspection and identification process. If the area is tampered with or sprayed prior to inspection it can lead to the termites retreating back into their network which makes it difficult to identify the species and treat effectively.
2. Organise a Termite Inspection as soon as possible - A SWOT Termite Inspection sees our fully qualified and experienced technician checking all parts of the home and land step by step for any incidences of termite activity. As part of this service you will receive a full written report completed by our technician which will include all findings and recommendations should Termite activity be identified.
3. Treatment of active Termites - Should active termites be found SWOT has a range of chemical and non chemical treatment options available. Our team will talk you through the options that are recommended for your specific property, allowing you to make an informed decision for your home.
Termites have the potential to cause significant and expensive damage to your home. However, through remaining vigilant and maintaining regular inspections through fully qualified and experienced pest management companies such as SWOT Pest Services you can be sure that you are providing yourself with the best opportunity to detect active Termites within your home early.
Ready to book in a SWOT Termite Inspection?
You can contact our friendly team on (02) 49543620 or via hello@swotpest.com. Stay up to date with handy tips and advice for living pest free in your home or business by signing up to our mailing list. Each month you’ll be sent useful information, updates on our services and monthly offers.
References
Termatrix (2020) http://termatrix.com.au/index.php/pestinfo
Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (2020) https://www.aepma.com.au/News/32028/AEPMA_notes_on_updates_to_AS_3660-2_2017
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