Termites are tiny but destructive insects that cause major problems for many Australian homes. These pests feed on timber, quietly eating away at floors, walls, and structural beams without being noticed. The damage termites cause costs homeowners millions of dollars each year, often more than fires or storms. Because termite damage is usually not covered by insurance, early detection and action are critical to saving your home from costly repairs.

man doing his work

When it comes to how to treat termites and reduce future infestations, it’s important to understand that successful termite removal isn’t just about treating the current infestation. It involves treating the affected areas and implementing preventative measures to reduce the risk of future infestations through ongoing care and monitoring.

Identifying the type of termites

Knowing what kind of termites you’re dealing with helps determine the best treatment approach. In Australia, the two most common types are: subterranean termites and drywood termites. Each type has different habits and behaviours, which means they require different detection and control methods.

Subterranean termites: These live underground and build mud tubes to access timber. They cause the most damage and are the hardest to detect.

Drywood termites: These termites live inside dry timber and don’t need contact with soil. They are less common but still problematic.

During an inspection, professional termite inspectors can identify the termite type, which guides the proper treatment and prevention plan.

See the termite species page for more information on subterranean, drywood and dampwood termites.

Signs of termite infestation

Termites rarely make their presence obvious until the damage is extensive. However, there are some warning signs to watch for around your home:

Hollow-sounding timber: When you tap on wood, it might sound hollow because termites eat wood from the inside out.

Mud tubes: These pencil-thick tunnels along walls or foundations allow subterranean termites to travel safely.
Discarded wings: Termites swarm during warmer months and leave behind their wings near windowsills or doors.

Frass: These are termite droppings that look like tiny sawdust pellets and often gather near infested wood.

Bubbling or cracked paint: Moisture from termite activity can cause paint to blister.

Doors or windows sticking: Warped wood from termite damage can make them hard to open or close properly.

Spotting these signs early makes it easier to remove termites before they cause serious harm.

this is used to mesaure the termite activey

Why DIY isn’t enough

It is tempting to handle termite problems with store-bought sprays or home remedies like vinegar. However, these quick fixes rarely deal with the root of the issue—the colony itself. Termite colonies can be hidden deep in your walls or underground, far beyond the reach of surface treatments.

DIY methods might kill a few termites on the surface, but they'll keep coming back without targeting the queen and the whole nest. That’s why professional termite treatment is usually more innovative and more reliable.

Termite treatment options

When managing termites, several effective termite treatment options are designed to target the colony and protect your home from further damage. Here’s a breakdown of the most common termite treatments used by professionals:

Termite baiting stations

These stations attract termites with bait that worker termites carry back to the colony. The bait contains a slow-acting substance that gradually eliminates the entire nest. Positioned discreetly above and below ground, baiting stations provide ongoing termite control without damaging your home.

this is an example image for termite baiting in t47

this is a termite vechile inspeciton

man donig chemical soil treatemts

this si for chemical soil trematments in the t47

Chemical termite barrier treatment

This treatment involves applying liquid chemicals to the soil around your home’s foundation and under the floors. The chemical forms a protective barrier that stops termites from entering unseen. It also forces termites into the open, where a qualified pest inspector can spot and treat them early.

Physical termite barrier

During construction, a physical barrier is installed beneath the concrete slab to block termites from entering through the ground. Made from materials like fine mesh or specially graded sand, it helps protect new builds or extensions without needing ongoing chemical treatments.

Termite reticulation system

This system is a series of underground pipes around the home that allow pest controllers to inject termiticides directly into the soil. It helps maintain the chemical barrier over time, especially in areas with a high risk of termite activity or for newer homes needing reliable protection.

Direct wood treatment

Direct wood treatment means applying termiticides straight onto timber that shows signs of termite activity or is at high risk. This treatment kills termites on contact within the wood and protects it from further damage. It is often used for isolated infestations or to complement other termite control methods, but it does not prevent new termites from entering the property.

Why do you hire termite control professionals?

Termites can be tricky pests to deal with because they often remain hidden deep within walls or underground. DIY methods usually only tackle the visible termites and miss the main colony, which means infestations often come back. Without treating the entire nest, the problem is unlikely to be solved.

Termite control professionals have the expertise to accurately identify termite species, locate nests, and apply specialised treatments that effectively target the entire colony. They also offer ongoing inspections and monitoring to catch any new termite activity early. Their knowledge and equipment provide a thorough and safer approach, giving your home the best chance of long-term protection and termite management.

How to prevent termites

Successfully managing termites permanently involves more than just treatment—it requires good prevention practices, such as:

Annual termite inspections: Regular checks help detect termites before they cause damage.

Moisture control: Fix leaking taps, pipes, and gutters to remove termite-friendly damp conditions.

Improve ventilation: Good airflow under floors and in roof spaces reduces moisture and makes your home less inviting.

Use termite-resistant materials: When building or renovating, opt for treated timber or steel framing to reduce termite risk.

Keep wood away from soil: Avoid direct contact between timber and the ground to make it harder for termites to reach your home.

Combining these steps with professional termite treatment creates the best defence against future termite problems.

termite fomaing in the world

Final thoughts

Termites are a serious threat to Australian homes, but with early action and the right approach, you can manage and reduce the risk of infestations over time. Look out for the signs, avoid relying on DIY fixes, and turn to professional termite treatment for effective control and prevention. Most importantly, maintain regular inspections and preventative care to protect your home long-term.

If you suspect termites, don’t wait—contact Rentokil to arrange a termite inspection and protect your property today.