Termite Prevention Checklist

Though it seems to be doing things in reverse, before you install protective measures in your home, you need to determine whether there is any termite infestation, and if there is, eradicate it first!

Why? Installing preventative measures, such as clearing wood away from under the house, may just disturb termites, causing them to retreat, only to return another day in another way. Once any treatment has had sufficient time to take effect and your home is termite-free, then set about doing all you can to make sure they don't come back.

There are numerous sensible things you can do that essentially make your house a less easily accessed meal for termites;

• Termites need moisture, so fix any leaking hoses, drains and pipes. Direct run off away from the house.

• Make sure the sub-floor area of your house has good cross-floor ventilation, drainage and access for inspections.

• Make sure any concrete slab is properly built, free of cracks and able to be inspected on all sides. Cracks can afford termites an entry point into the timber in your house.

• Avoid obvious sources of food such as timber offcuts, ladders etc. aren't leaning against the house or stacked up under the house, giving termites an easy and hidden entry point into the rest of your house.

• Consider the landscaping. The moisture in garden beds is attractive to termites and a risk if these same garden beds butt right up against your house. Avoid using wood chips or wood mulch if gardens are against house walls. It's all goof food to termites!

• Don't inadvertently give termites a new entry point when doing renovations or adding extensions. Never cover up previously exposed areas.

• Get in the habit of checking monthly on your house. Regularly check the perimeter and any installed termite barriers. Check weepholes - the small holes cut into brickwork that allow moisture to escape.

• Inside, regularly check damp or moist areas such as bathrooms and laundries for signs of dampness, peeling or discolouring. A moisture meter will show if there is moisture behind a wall - a good sign of termite presence.