Complete Termite Guide for Sydney Homeowners
Everything you need to know about termites in Sydney: identification, prevention, treatment options, and costs. Protect your biggest investment with expert knowledge.
Warning Signs of Termites
Early detection is crucial. Learn to recognize these common signs of termite activity in Sydney homes. If you notice any of these, arrange an inspection immediately.
Mud Tubes
High RiskPencil-sized tunnels on walls, foundations, or in subfloor. Termites build these protected highways between their colony and food source.
Hollow-Sounding Timber
High RiskTap wooden surfaces - if they sound hollow or papery, termites may have eaten the inside while leaving the exterior intact.
Bubbling Paint
Paint that appears bubbled, cracked, or uneven on wood surfaces often indicates moisture from termite activity underneath.
Discarded Wings
Piles of small wings near windows or doors indicate a termite swarm has occurred - reproductive termites starting new colonies.
Tight Doors/Windows
Doors or windows that suddenly stick or are hard to open may be warped from moisture produced by termites eating nearby timber.
Damaged Skirting Boards
High RiskVisible damage, sagging, or crumbling of skirting boards, door frames, or window frames often indicates advanced termite damage.
Important: Don't Disturb Termites
If you find termites, don't disturb them or spray with insecticide. This can cause them to scatter and establish new colonies elsewhere in your home. Contact a professional immediately for proper treatment.
Termite Treatment Options & Costs
Understanding your treatment options helps you make informed decisions. Here's what Sydney pest control professionals typically offer.
Chemical Soil Barrier
$2,000 - $4,000Liquid termiticide (usually Termidor) applied to soil around and under the building creates an undetectable barrier that kills termites on contact.
Pros
- • Highly effective
- • Long-lasting protection
- • Quick installation
Cons
- • Requires drilling/trenching
- • Chemicals in soil
- • May need reapplication
Baiting System
$3,000 - $5,000Monitoring stations installed around the property contain bait that termites carry back to the colony, eliminating the entire colony over time.
Pros
- • No chemicals around home
- • Eliminates entire colony
- • Low disruption
Cons
- • Slower to work (3-12 months)
- • Ongoing monitoring costs
- • Requires regular checking
Physical Barriers
$1,500 - $3,000Stainless steel mesh or crusite stone barriers installed during construction that termites cannot penetrate or move through.
Pros
- • Permanent solution
- • No chemicals
- • No maintenance
Cons
- • Only for new builds/extensions
- • Higher upfront cost
- • Professional installation required
Combination Treatment
$4,000 - $7,000Many professionals recommend combining chemical barriers with baiting systems for maximum protection, especially in high-risk areas.
Pros
- • Maximum protection
- • Multiple modes of action
- • Best for high-risk
Cons
- • Higher cost
- • More complex
- • Ongoing maintenance
High-Risk Sydney Suburbs for Termites
While termites are found across Sydney, these areas have elevated risk factors. If you live in these suburbs, annual inspections are essential.
Termite Prevention Tips
Reduce your risk of termite infestation with these practical prevention measures.
Eliminate moisture sources
Fix leaking taps, pipes, and air conditioning units. Ensure proper drainage away from foundations.
Maintain ventilation
Keep subfloor areas well-ventilated. Install additional vents if necessary.
Remove timber-to-ground contact
Don't store firewood, timber, or cardboard against your house. Keep garden beds away from walls.
Regular inspections
Schedule annual professional inspections, more frequently in high-risk areas.
Maintain chemical barriers
If you have a chemical barrier, ensure it's not breached by landscaping or construction.
Address landscaping
Avoid heavy mulching against walls. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from the house.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a termite inspection cost in Sydney?
A professional termite inspection in Sydney typically costs $250-$500 for a standard residential property. Factors affecting price include property size, accessibility (especially subfloor and roof void), and whether thermal imaging is included. Most reputable inspectors include thermal imaging as standard.
How often should I get a termite inspection in Sydney?
Australian Standard AS 3660 recommends annual termite inspections for properties in termite-prone areas. Most of Sydney is classified as high-risk due to warm, humid climate. Properties with previous termite history or near bushland may benefit from 6-monthly inspections.
What are the signs of termites in my Sydney home?
Common signs include: mud tubes on walls or foundations, hollow-sounding timber when tapped, bubbling or cracking paint on wood surfaces, tight-fitting doors or windows, discarded wings near windows, and visible damage to skirting boards or door frames. If you notice any signs, get an inspection immediately.
How much does termite treatment cost in Sydney?
Termite treatment in Sydney typically costs $2,000-$5,000+ depending on the treatment method and property size. Chemical soil barriers cost $2,000-$4,000, baiting systems $3,000-$5,000, and physical barriers for new constructions $1,500-$3,000. Severe infestations may cost more.
What is the best termite treatment for Sydney homes?
The best treatment depends on your situation. Chemical barriers (Termidor) are most common and effective for 5-8 years. Baiting systems are less invasive and ideal for homes where chemical barriers are difficult to install. Many professionals recommend combining both methods for maximum protection.
Are termites covered by home insurance in NSW?
Standard home insurance in NSW does NOT cover termite damage. Termite damage is considered a maintenance issue. This is why regular inspections are crucial - catching termites early can save tens of thousands in repair costs that won't be covered by insurance.
Which Sydney suburbs have the highest termite risk?
High-risk areas include suburbs with older homes, established trees, and bushland proximity: Eastern Suburbs (older homes), Northern Beaches (bushland), Hills District (trees), and Western Sydney (soil conditions). However, termites are found across all Sydney suburbs.
How long does termite treatment take?
Chemical barrier installation typically takes 1-2 days. Baiting systems are installed in a few hours but require 3-12 months to eliminate the colony. Most treatments include follow-up inspections at 3 and 12 months to confirm elimination.
Protect Your Home from Termites
Get a professional termite inspection from an EPA-licensed operator today.