Introduction

If you’ve ever spotted what looked like sawdust near a skirting board, or noticed your floorboards feel a little spongy underfoot, there’s a good chance termites crossed your mind. And honestly? That gut feeling is worth listening to.

Termites cause billions of dollars in property damage across Australia every year, and most homeowners don’t realise they have a problem until the damage is already done. That’s exactly why our termite inspection and treatment service is one of the most important things you can do to protect your Melbourne home.

In this guide we walk you through what a termite inspection involves, when to book one, what tools we use, and what happens if we find something. No jargon, no scare tactics, just honest, helpful information.

Why Termite Inspections Matter in Melbourne

Melbourne’s warm, humid summers create ideal conditions for subterranean termites to thrive, from Glen Waverley and Knox right through to the outer east and bayside suburbs. Termites eat timber from the inside out, which means by the time you see visible damage, they’ve often been active for months or even years.

Australian Standard AS3660 recommends homes be inspected at least once every 12 months. For properties surrounded by trees or in known termite-active areas, every six months is smarter. As we explain in our blog on the importance of annual termite inspections, prevention is always far cheaper than repair.

We also cover the bigger picture in our post on what termite protection is and how long treatment lasts — worth a read if you want to understand the options available beyond the inspection itself.

Signs You Might Already Have Termites

Before booking, it helps to know the warning signs. Some are obvious, others easy to miss:

• Hollow-sounding timber – knock on skirting boards or door frames; a papery echo is a red flag.
• Mud tubes – thin tunnels of soil running along walls, subfloor bearers, or foundations.
• Fine sawdust or pellets – near timber structures or window frames.
• Sticking doors or windows – caused by moisture from termite activity warping the timber.
• Discarded wings – left by swarming termites near windowsills or lights.
• Visible timber damage – blistering paint, cracked coving, or crumbling wood.

If you’ve spotted any of these, don’t wait. Our termite treatment page explains the options available, and you can book an appointment directly online.

What Happens During a Termite Inspection?

A professional termite inspection with Positive Pest Solutions typically takes 60–90 minutes depending on property size. Here’s what we cover:

Exterior assessment

We check the full perimeter,  garden beds, fences, timber structures, decking, and the base of trees near the building. Termites commonly nest in tree roots and travel to your home from there.

Interior and subfloor

Every accessible area is inspected, subfloor, roof void, all internal rooms, and any exposed timber. We don’t take a quick look; we do it thoroughly.

Advanced detection tools

We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to detect termite activity inside walls, under floors, and in other concealed areas invisible to the naked eye. Termites create heat and moisture as they work, these tools catch what eyes can’t.

On-the-spot briefing and written report

At the end of the inspection we walk you through our findings in plain language, what we found, where, and what the next steps are. A detailed written report is delivered within 24 hours.

When Should You Book a Termite Inspection?

There are clear situations that call for immediate action:

• Annual routine check – even with no visible signs, a yearly inspection is the most reliable way to catch activity early.
• Before buying a property – not all building inspections include a thorough termite assessment. Always ask, or book a standalone termite inspection.
• After heavy rain or floods – wet conditions drive new colony movement.
• After previous termite activity – if your home has been treated before, regular inspections are non-negotiable.
• When a neighbour has been treated – termites don’t respect property lines.
• Any visible warning signs – don’t wait. Call us on 03 8594 1416.

You can also read our post on common pests across Melbourne’s seasons to understand when termite activity typically peaks.

What If We Find Termites?

Finding termites is never welcome news, but it’s a very treatable problem when caught early. We’ll explain exactly what we’ve found and walk you through the options clearly, with no pressure.

Common treatment approaches include:

• Termidor HE chemical soil barriers – applied around the home’s perimeter to create a protection zone. Positive Pest Solutions is fully Termidor HE accredited, which means we can apply this industry-leading product correctly and safely.
• Baiting systems – slow-acting bait stations installed in the ground that termites carry back to the colony, eliminating it from the source.

After treatment, a follow-up inspection confirms the colony has been dealt with. We also recommend ongoing annual inspections as part of a long-term pest control maintenance plan.

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

A professional termite inspection in Melbourne typically ranges from $200 to $350, depending on property size and tools used. A visual-only inspection that skips the subfloor or roof void simply isn’t thorough enough, thermal imaging and moisture detection are worth every cent.

When you consider that termite damage routinely costs tens of thousands to repair, and that most home insurance policies explicitly exclude termite damage, a few hundred dollars per year is a sound investment. We also offer 20% off rodent treatment when booked together with a termite inspection, so it’s worth combining visits where possible.

Termite Protection: Going Beyond the Inspection

An inspection tells you what’s happening right now. A termite management system keeps your home protected long-term. After an inspection, your technician may recommend either a chemical soil barrier or in-ground baiting system, both deliver continuous perimeter protection.

For more on what’s involved, visit our dedicated termite treatment service page or read our blog on how long termite protection lasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a termite inspection take?

Most residential inspections take 60–90 minutes. Larger properties with subfloors and roof voids may take a little longer.

Do I need to be home?

It helps to be present so we can explain findings in person, but it’s not essential, as long as all areas are accessible.

How often should I get a termite inspection?

At least annually under Australian Standard AS3660. Every six months if you’re in a high-risk area or have had termites before.

Does home insurance cover termite damage?

In most cases, no. Standard home insurance policies exclude termite damage, another strong reason to invest in prevention. Visit our FAQ page for more common questions.

What areas do you service?

We’re based in Glen Waverley and cover a wide range of Melbourne suburbs. Check our service areas page or call us to confirm.

Ready to Book Your Termite Inspection?

Don’t wait until you see the signs. A professional termite inspection from Positive Pest Solutions gives you a thorough, honest assessment of your home using the latest detection tools.

Read what our customers say on our testimonials page, or get in touch for a free quote. Call us on 03 8594 1416 — Mon to Sat, 8am to 9pm. Your home is worth protecting.

The post Termite Inspection In Melbourne appeared first on Positive Pest Solutions.

Keep on reading to find out more about termites as a household pest, termite inspections, and why it is important for you to schedule them regularly for the benefit of yourself and your household.

Identifying termites

Termites are often mistaken for ants as they look alike at first glance. In actual fact, termites are more closely related to cockroaches than ants. Like cockroaches, termites moult as they grow and feed on decaying plant material and wood, just like some species of cockroaches do.

Termites live in colonies that can contain anywhere between a few hundred to a million termites, depending on the species. Termites have separate body segments and six legs, with some termites owning wings, too. Termites go through the egg, nymph, and adult stages throughout their lifespan, with different termites in a colony taking on different roles. There is the termite queen which lays eggs, worker termites that care for the nymphs, and soldier termites that protect the colony.

Termites as a household pest

Unlike other household pests like rats or cockroaches, termites do not pose a direct health risk by being present in your home. Yes, some species of termites can bite and sting, and termites can lead to health risks in indirect ways such – as spreading wood particles that can lead to allergic reactions.

However, the biggest problems caused by termites are usually in terms of physical effects on property and financial damage. Termites cause up to billions in property damage in Australia every single year.

A colony of termites can cause widespread structural damage, feeding on the internal structures of your home and ultimately creating an unsafe living situation. Termites can create loose tiles, sagging ceilings, ruined floors, and holes in the drywall. They can also cause extensive water damage in your home by hollowing and weakening the walls.

Termite inspection as a method of prevention

Bearing in mind the type of damage that termites can wreak in your household, termite inspection can be viewed as a smart and effective method of termite protection in Melbourne. Termite inspection is when a team of skilled and experienced termite control professionals inspect your home or property for signs of termites and termite damage.

This can be done as part of a standard inspection for the building that you are currently living in, or as part of a pre-purchase procedure for home buyers who would like their potential property checked for signs of termites beforehand. During a termite inspection, the professionals will look at all accessible timbers in your floor, ceiling, landscaping, and more. The report will be detailed and comprehensive, accompanied with photographs and an explanation of the relevant findings.

If it turns out that you do have a termite problem on hand, then the termite control experts will recommend the best course of treatment to get rid of the pests. From bait traps to fumigation, reliable termite control professionals will always ensure that the treatment selected is child and pet friendly as well as suitable for the environment.

Termite prevention and aftercare

In addition to offering you solutions for termite treatment in Melbourne, a good termite exterminator will also supply you with helpful termite prevention and management solutions for afterwards. This includes tips like removing the source of food for termites, such as wood mulch, waste timber, cardboard boxes, or firewood stored near your home. Similarly, you should keep the perimeter of your house clear of plants and stored items to avoid clutter from accumulating.

Next, you should also try your best to reduce moisture within your home as termites are very attracted to moist and damp environments. Improve soil drainage systems by making sure your ground water flows away from your home, thus reducing the amount of moisture entering into your property. Ensure that your roof gutter and downpipes are working as they should, correctly discharging to the right stormwater drains. On top of that, make sure any leaks in the plumbing of your home are fixed immediately.

Schedule regular termite inspections

For maximum peace of mind and to catch any signs of termites before they turn into a full-blown, long-term infestation, you should schedule a professional termite inspection once every year. However, if the structure of your home or building is more susceptible to termite infestations, then it may be safer to get inspections scheduled more regularly.

Positive Pest Solutions is your termite expert of choice when it comes to professional termite inspections and treatment in Melbourne. With up to date knowledge of the industry and competitive prices, we have the expertise and level of service ready to solve all your pest related problems with ease. Contact us to find out more about what we can offer you today.

The post The Importance Of Annual Termite Inspection appeared first on Positive Pest Solutions.

Signs of a termite infestation

It can be easy to confuse termites with ants, as they both live in large colonies, and both are brown insects with six legs and a segmented body. Termites have antennae similar to the ant, but theirs come straight out of the head section while an ants’ feelers bend at a right angle and they don’t demolish your home.

• Often the first sign of a termite infestation will be the sight of them swarming in the air.
• The timber in the property will become hollow or papery to the touch and wooden doors and window frames become harder to close as the wood warps.
• Signs of a powder residue, termite droppings will appear around the area of infestation which is a sure signal to seek termite treatment in Melbourne.

Treatments available and how long do they last?

There are a number of ways in which to remove termite colonies and treatments that are effective as well as being child and pet friendly. The companies who provide termite control in Melbourne are usually professionals, who will arrange for one of their experienced experts to be in touch and to discuss what pest infestation you are looking at and a survey to determine the best method of treatment.

• Bait traps

Sometimes, bait traps will be used in and around the areas where the termites are colonising. They contain a solution which acts as a lure to the insects and once inside, become covered with a chemical that when they return to the colony, will poison the other inhabitants. If they have got into very hard to reach areas of the property, sometimes the professionals will use a foam agent to kill the insects.

• Fumigation

Termite treatment usually lasts for five years, depending on the product used, soil treatment around the home can last between 5 – 8 years, while the baits last for around a year.

What is termite protection?

Termite protection in Melbourne usually include both regular inspections, treatment if required and follow up, plus preventative advice to prevent the termites from returning. Termites like damp conditions, so one of the things you can do to proactively discourage a colony is to check there are no leaking pipes, or droplets from air conditioner units that form pockets of moisture rich habitat. Make sure you regularly clear out gutters or standpipes to prevent overflow onto the ground below and check that your drainage system falls away from the property and not towards it.

You need to eliminate direct wood to ground contact as much as possible, and avoid storing timbers underneath the property. If you do have a wood store, keep it away from the home and raise it off the ground. You should be looking at around 6 inches gap between the ground and any timber decking or porches. If you cannot avoid wood touching the ground, review the use of treated timbers or termite resistant wood. One other point to consider is having a layer of sand replace the soil around the home as termites are not able to tunnel through sandy layers.

The area around the property should be kept clear of planting, or areas of storage where termites can get in and cause damage that you cannot see until it is too late. Other items that are attractive to termites should be removed and this includes old tea chests used for storage or cardboard boxes. The clearer the area, the better it will be to spot any potential infestation before these pesky insects cause irretrievable damage. Look out for other ways in which they can enter the home as well. This means checking out ventilation shafts and holes and ensuring they are covered with protective netting.

Having a regular check and inspection of both the external and internal perimeters of the home is the best way to ensure that you keep termites at bay. So, pick up the phone and book a termite inspection in Melbourne with Positive Pest Solutions today.

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Aside from the short days and chilly weather, there’s one thing a colder climate will bring to every Australian household: an abundance of bothersome pests. As insects and mammals seek refuge from the chill each year, they end up in our homes and wreak havoc along the way.

Here’s everything you need to know about the most prevalent pests in Australia in winter, including what to do about them.

Rodents

Don’t be fooled by their innocent demeanour—these pesky little rodents pose a serious threat to your home and will become particularly prevalent in the winter months. Both rats and mice reproduce at an alarming rate, with a single female capable of producing dozens of offspring over her short lifespan of around one year.

There is a difference between rats and mice even though both of these fall under the ‘rodents’ category. Rats tend to be larger in size with a more pointy face. They also chew in round, large and rougher circles.

Problems caused by rodents:

During the winter, rodents will invade your home in search of warmth, spreading diseases, carrying fleas and wrecking your property in the process. Aside from causing structural damage as they scratch, gnaw, and chew their way through wood, rodents can strip the coating off electrical wires, ruining your appliances and creating a potential fire hazard. Roof rats are particularly troublesome, as they may remain undetected while they wreak havoc on your rafters. Rodents pose a significant health issue, too, because they can contaminate food sources, disperse bacteria, and spread deadly diseases like the dreaded rat-bite fever.

How to spot signs of rats and mice:

Rodents are rather elusive, so don’t expect to see them settling into your home. Look for signs of activity such as tracks, gnaw marks, and droppings. Tracks are easiest to spot in dusty areas, so you might struggle to find them if you keep a clean house (try laying down talcum powder if need be). Their five-toed footprints are much more evident in the attic or the crawl space under the house. Rodent droppings look like dark little pellets; if they’re soft, that means they’re fresh. Gnaw marks will appear at ground level on wooden doors and joists, stretching out an inch or so.

How to get rid of rats and mice:

One of the most important steps in rodent control would be to cut the grass short and to also cut the trees, preventing them from touching the house/roof. The number one reason for rodents to come into your house is for shelter, followed by food and water. Denying them shelter would be an effective step towards rodent control.

Keep your kitchen clean so as not to attract these bothersome pests. Food scraps and garbage heaps are a big no-no. Clean out your pet food bowls and if necessary putting a few traps around as well. When these have been done, and you still suspect rodent infestation, get in touch with the experts at Positive Pet Solutions for rodent control in Melbourne. 

German Cockroaches

These disease-ridden pests make an unwelcome presence in almost all Australian homes. Several different species may roam your property at any given time, although the German Cockroach is the most ubiquitous of them all.

Problems caused by cockroaches:

Cockroaches tend to congregate inside during the winter and multiply at incredible speeds. Meanwhile, they spread all sorts of nasty pathogens like salmonella and Hepatitis A, so it’s essential to get on top of the problem before it spirals out of control.

How to spot signs of cockroaches:

Cockroaches are nocturnal, so they’ll be in hiding and hard to spot during the day. At night, however, you’ll likely notice them scurrying under the fridge when you turn the lights on. Cockroach secretions smell rather unpleasant as well, which makes them easier to identify.

How to get rid of cockroaches:

Keeping a clean kitchen is the best form of cockroach control. Wash your dishes immediately after use and avoid leaving food scraps lying around. Take your garbage out regularly and block off any cracks and crevices they might squeeze through. And keep a can of insect spray handy for when you do spot them scurrying around.

Termites

Termites are a pest in Australia throughout the year, and the problem doesn’t go away come wintertime. In fact, it could be a hidden danger for homeowners. When the temperature drops, termites may not be as active but they aren’t dormant. They need food to survive, even in colder weather. Though the signs of termites may not be as visible because they are feeding at a slower rate, there is still possibility that you have an infestation. It pays to be on the lookout for these destructive insects.

Problems caused by termites:

If left unchecked, these tiny insects could cause tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to your home. Termites are the most expensive pest in Australia, causing over $700 million of damage to Aussie homes each year. They are active all year round but tend to head indoors in higher numbers when the mercury starts to dip.

How to spot signs of termites:

Termites are too small to spot and don’t smell or make any noise, so you’ll need to search for signs of infestation. Keep an eye out for cracks in the walls, sagging floors or ceilings, damaged decks or garden posts, and missing roof tiles that allow them to crawl in.

On top of your periodic reviews, it’s worth getting an annual inspection from a pest control company, who will detect hollowed-out wood, identify frass (termite droppings), and spot foundation damage before it becomes a disaster.

How to get rid of termites:

Chemical solutions—baits, liquid pesticides, wood treatments—can be effective at killing termites. These can be dangerous and difficult to properly apply, however, so it’s best to get a professional involved. Positive Pest Solutions are your best bet for termite control in Melbourne.

Ants

During winter and in colder conditions, ants tend to remain relatively dormant and not cause too many problems. However, increased ant activity can occur due to poor hygiene or when they locate a food source in the home.

Problems caused by ants:

Ants can contaminate food, spread bacteria, or administer a nasty bite. And with a thousands-strong colony to deal with, it can be challenging to keep an infestation under control.

How to spot signs of ants:

Ants are the least subtle of Australia’s major household pests. Once they’ve made themselves at home, you’ll see them everywhere—and that’s half the issue.

How to get rid of ants:

Having a chemical barrier around the house would be the best way to prevent ants from entering the house. It is best to also keep them out of the wall cavity to prevent further complications.

Putting food away and maintaining a clean, hygienic environment is an effective way to prevent ants from entering your home. Conventional insecticides offer some protection, although you may need a professional pest control service to put down baits and spray the perimeter. Positive Pest Solutions provide comprehensive and cost-effective ant control in Melbourne.

At Positive Pest Solutions, we are proud to offer an extensive range of services that include rats & rodent control, ant pest control, as well as termite inspection and treatment. Get in touch with our friendly and reliable team today and book an appointment for an obligation-free quote. Find out what our past clients have to say about us. We offer competitive price with quality services. Our general pest treatment only starts from $89.

The post Most Common Pests That Invade Your Home in Winter & How to Manage Them appeared first on Positive Pest Solutions.

Identifying termite infestation will not only helps preventing damage, but also enables you to spot and kill the pesky creatures before they turn out to be a great problem. Whether you are a landlord, homeowner or a property manager, you should inspect the property regularly or have a professional come to your home to treat it with preventive products. But, how will you identify the pest infestation? Well, here are some tell-tale signs of termite infestation that you should look for.

Mud Tunnels

The most common sign of a termite infestation is the mud tunnel. Termites love privacy, and when they can’t find a way underground, they build mud tunnels to go about their business. You may notice these mud tunnels from your walls, concrete foundation, backyard’s patio and other wooden structures around your home.

Discarded Wings

If you spot dried, scattered wings around your doors, windows, air vents or other openings into your home, it is quite a common sign of a termite infestation. The problem is that the shed wings signify reproduction, meaning that the termite family is about to get larger.

Swarmers

A termite colony will swarm if the current home is not big enough for the population. They move out and look for a better place to raise their family.  If you spot flying termites near light sources, this is a strong sign that your home is at risk.

Cracked Or Hollowed Wood

You should regularly check for cracks and hollows on the wooden furniture, skirting boards, floor boards and other wooden structures within your property. Remember that termites get in from underneath, so you want to keep an eye on these sure-fire signs.

Droppings

Termite droppings look quite like sawdust piled up around your doorstep, furniture and other wooden materials around your property. These piles are formed by the termites pushing the droppings out of their nest.

Noise

If you put your ear close to the walls or any infested wood, you can hear clicking sound. This actually comes from the termites as they bang their heads against the walls of their nest.

What Should Be Done If You Find Termites?

If you spot termites in your home, do not disturb them. Avoid treating them yourself with regular household fly sprays. Do not touch these critters and their workings. This is because termites have survival instincts which allow them to feel disruption and move to another spot and keep doing the damage to your house.

If you have already tried to kill the termites by spraying or using any other pest control technique, don’t panic. Simply seal up their workings with a tape to prevent access of light as much as you can, but make sure that you do not disturb them anymore.  

Next, give our pest control team a call on 0413397270 or fill in our online contact form to organise a full termite inspection on your property. Our termite control experts will come to your home and perform a thorough termite inspection. They will inspect all the areas in and around your property that are more vulnerable to termite infestation.

Once we are done with the inspection, our team will provide you with a detailed report on our findings and specify areas that are at high risk of future infestations. Based on the level of infestation, we will use the most effective termite control method that not just kills these pesky creatures in a particular area but eliminates all the colonies including the queen which could be 100 metres away from your house. We will also install termite barriers to prevent future infestation.

Positive Pest Solutions only uses Termidor from BASF when doing the termite treatment and we are proud to be a Termidor HE accredited installer.

To learn more about the advanced termite treatment by Termidor please watch the clip below:

And to learn more about Termidor HE, the latest technology in termite chemical barrier, please watch this clip below:

Follow-Up Service:

Our termite control process includes a follow-up service whereby we will visit your home to recheck for termites. If we find any evidence for termite activity, we will do another treatment process until the termites are completely eliminated from your property.

The post What to Do When You Find Termites in Your Property? appeared first on Positive Pest Solutions.