Termites in Melbourne: A Hidden Threat to Your Property
Termites sometimes called “white ants” are silent destroyers, causing more damage to homes each year than floods, fires, and storms combined.
In Melbourne and across Victoria, termites are not a rare risk:
- Over one in three homes will be attacked by termites at some point.
- CSIRO research puts Melbourne as a moderate to high-risk area, with termite populations thriving in both established suburbs and new developments.
- They can cause thousands of dollars in hidden structural damage before you even see a sign often making insurance claims impossible.
Why Are Melbourne Homes So Vulnerable?
- Melbourne’s mix of old weatherboard, brick veneer, and even new timber-framed homes provides plenty of food and entry points for termites.
- Many older suburbs (like Glen Iris, Box Hill, Balwyn, Frankston, and Mornington) have mature trees, ageing fences, and garden beds right up against houses perfect termite environments.
- Even modern homes, especially those in new estates built on former farmland, can be at risk if physical or chemical barriers are missing or compromised.
Early detection is your best defense. That’s why a dedicated termite inspection should be a non-negotiable part of property care in Melbourne.
What Exactly is a Termite Inspection?
A termite inspection is a thorough, professional check of your property inside and out for evidence of termite activity, past damage, and conditions that might attract future infestations.
What’s Involved?
A comprehensive termite inspection in Melbourne should include:
- Visual examination of all accessible areas: inside (walls, floors, cupboards, skirting boards), roof void, subfloor, garages, sheds, decks, fences, and garden areas
- Moisture readings in walls, floors, and timbers termites are attracted to moisture
- Tapping of all exposed timbers
- Thermal imaging to detect heat signatures of termite nests behind walls or under floors
Checking for:
- Mud tubes or tunnels (a classic termite “highway”)
- Damaged, hollow-sounding wood
- Sagging floors or bubbling paint
- Frass (termite droppings)
- Leaks, poor drainage, or timbers in contact with soil
Buywise Inspections uses advanced tools and local expertise to find even hidden or early-stage termite problems. Including Termatrac detection technology. We strictly follow Australian Standard AS 3660.2 for all termite and timber pest inspections.
Typical Termite Inspection Process: Step by Step
- Booking and Preparation
- We arrange a convenient time, advise you to clear access to underfloor, roof void, and exterior walls, and discuss any areas of past concern.
- Onsite Inspection
- Our technician walks you through what will be inspected. All accessible areas are methodically checked using torches, tapping tools, moisture meters, and thermal cameras.
- Reporting
- Digital photos are taken of any risk areas or damage.
- You receive a clear, jargon-free report (usually within 24 hours), outlining:
- Any evidence of live termites or past damage
- Areas of high risk (e.g., subfloor moisture, untreated timber, leaks)
- Recommendations for treatment, repair, and prevention
- Consultation
- We explain the report, answer your questions, and if termites are found, provide next steps including treatment options and urgency.
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost in Melbourne (2025)?
- Standard residential termite inspection: $300–$360 (for a typical home up to 4 bedrooms)
- Larger homes, split-level, or difficult access: $360–$450+
- Combined building & pest inspection: $450–$650 (often better value if you’re buying or selling)
What affects price?
- Property size, number of stories, and outbuildings
- Subfloor or roof access (homes on slabs are often faster/cheaper)
- Distance from Melbourne CBD (some regional surcharges may apply)
- Extras (thermal imaging, detailed management plans)
Tip: Always use a licensed, insured inspector cheaper isn’t always safer when it comes to protecting your home.
Who Needs a Termite Inspection? (Not Just Buyers!)
- Home buyers: Avoid buying a costly headache pre-purchase inspections can be a powerful negotiating tool.
- Homeowners: Annual inspections are recommended, especially if you have timber features, a garden, or live in a risk suburb.
- Sellers: A clear termite report can boost buyer confidence and speed up your sale.
- Property investors and managers: Regular checks protect your assets and avoid costly repairs.
High-Risk Melbourne Suburbs for Termites
Areas with more trees, older homes, and moisture problems have higher rates of termite attack. Examples include:
- Frankston, Mornington, Doncaster, Ringwood, Box Hill, Glen Waverley, Eltham, Dandenong, and all bayside areas.
Not sure if you’re in a high-risk suburb? Ask our inspectors we have detailed local maps and experience across Greater Melbourne.
Real Case Study: What Can Happen Without Regular Inspections
A family in Bayside Melbourne noticed minor cracks in their skirting boards nothing seemed urgent. After six months, their floor began to sag.
Result: Over $30,000 in repairs due to a hidden termite nest in the subfloor.
A simple annual inspection would have caught the problem before major damage occurred.
What Happens If Termites Are Found?
- You’ll get detailed photos and descriptions in your report.
- Immediate action is recommended either targeted spot treatment or a full property chemical barrier.
- You’ll receive a quote for safe eradication and future prevention.
- If you’re buying, you may be able to negotiate the sale price or require the seller to treat the infestation before settlement.
The sooner termites are found, the less expensive and stressful the outcome.
Prevention: Tips to Make Your Home Less Attractive to Termites
- Keep gardens, mulch, and timber at least 300mm from external walls.
- Fix leaks quickly termites love damp areas.
- Don’t store firewood or cardboard boxes under the house.
- Ensure subfloors are well ventilated.
- Arrange annual professional termite inspections (especially if your home is more than 5 years old).
Most infestations start from minor oversights simple habits save thousands!
Choosing the Right Termite Inspector in Melbourne
Not all inspectors are equal! For peace of mind, always check:
- Licensing and insurance: Only use professionals accredited for pest and termite inspections in Victoria.
- Experience: Choose a company with years of local knowledge and up-to-date technology.
- Equipment: Moisture meters, Termatrac detection technology and thermal cameras are essential for modern inspections don’t settle for less.
- Reporting: Insist on a written report with photos and plain-English recommendations.
- Reputation: Check Google reviews, ask for referrals, and see if they’re members of relevant pest control associations.
Buywise Inspections ticks every box trusted across Melbourne for fast, thorough, and honest termite inspections.
FAQs: Termite Inspection Melbourne
Ideally every 12 months. High-risk homes (timber features, gardens, old suburbs) may need 6-monthly checks.
Yes! Brick homes often have timber frames or subfloors termites only need a 2mm gap to enter.
Usually not termites avoid light and are experts at staying hidden. Visible signs mean the infestation is often advanced.
No, it’s non-destructive. Inspectors don’t drill or cut without your permission thermal and moisture tools do the work.
Not always. Only “building and pest” inspections or a specific termite inspection covers timber pests. Always check your quote.
If you don’t fix moisture or garden problems, or skip future inspections, termites can return even after treatment.
Absolutelyespecially once landscaping, fencing, or decks are installed. Even homes with chemical barriers should be checked regularly.
Book an inspection immediately termites travel underground and can spread quickly between properties.