Termite Inspections Canberra are carried out with fully licensed and insured technicians who supply detailed reports with course of actions recommended

How to Detect Termites – Termite Inspection Canberra

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How to Detect Termites – Termite Inspection Canberra

termite inspection

The CSIRO recommends termite inspection as a bare minimum an annual termite inspection is essential to every property owner in order to find out how to detect termites in the early stages. However, it must be done by an experienced, licensed and reliable pest control professionals, such as A1 Pest Control Canberra. This article, we’ll guide you what you can ask and what you must look for in a pest control service provider.

In this article covered topics:

  • How to detect termites
  • How to lessen the risk of termites
  • The different approaches to termite inspection and management
  • Getting Quotations
  • Pest inspections
  • Requirements in licensing for pest controllers
  • Insurances
  • Warranties

In Australia, there are over 300 species of termites but only a few cause problems. The termite that causes the most damage is the white ants (subterranean termites). Who any materials that have cellulose-containing materials such as timber are their main source of food.

Termites eat homes and commercial buildings timbers from the inside and leave only a thin layer as the guard from the outside environment, which causes major structural and economic damages.

How to detect termites?

Termite infestation leaves some indication such as follows:

  • Termites build mud shelter tubes, which can be seen in architraves or brick foundations. This serves as their protection.
  • Timber with the hollow sound
  • Doors and floors that sag
  • Weak door jams, architraves or skirting boards. Termites weaken the structural integrity of timber, hence a slight pressure causes damage to these areas.
  • Cracked plaster or paint.
  • Power failures. The warmth of electrical fittings attracts termites.

There are several factors that affect termite inspection and activity. The factors that greatly impact their activity is the temperature, rainfall, and also the house’s age. If you find termite inspection activity in your home, do not disturb the termites as the termites will go deeper underground and move to another location and will be more difficult to detect.

Termites don’t only eat the structural timbers of your house, they also eat your furniture, fabrics, paper products, clothing, and non-cellulose materials such as building sealants, rigid foam insulation, and soft plastics.

  1. How to lessen the risk of termites?

  • Fix leaking pipes, poor drainage, inadequate ventilation.
  • Check the house’s environment. The weep holes or the small gaps between the bricks should not be covered by garden beds or shrubs.
  • The areas under your house should also be clear. Do not stock items that reduce the ventilation space under the house.
  • Eliminate any wood that is touches the ground and near or under the house.
  • Consider construction methods and materials that reduce risk of termites if you are building a new house.
  • Obtain annual pest control inspections and consider their advice to lessen your risk of termites inspection by installing a chemical or physical termite barriers.

 

  1. The different approaches to termite inspection and management

The Building Code of Australia mandates all new homes and extensions to have a readily available termite inspection and management system in all areas except for Tasmania as the termite risk there is inconsequential. If your home is built after July 1995, you must have a ‘durable notice’ of treatment attached to a noticeable position in the building (near the meter box or near the entrance to a crawl space). Furthermore, the following information should be listed on the said notice:

Whenever building a new home or whenever doing a substantial renovation, you must ensure you install the appropriate physical or chemical barriers. The barriers are easier to install at the time of construction.

Physical termite barriers are permanent and non-toxic. It does not require maintenance or renewal. Although physical barriers won’t kill termites, it will prevent termites from accessing your home. Moreover, there are several types of physical barriers such as termite shields, woven stainless steel mesh, composite systems, and reticulation systems.

Types of Physical Termite Barriers

  • Termite shields or also known as ant caps easily detect the termite’s mud shelter tubes on its metal caps. Even if termite shields do not prevent termite inspection activity, it exposes them to the open.
  • Woven stainless steel mesh or finely graded stone particles conceal the entry points of termites. This can be installed around pipe openings and other similar openings in a concrete slab and cavity wall.
  • Composite systems are unlike genuine physical barriers as they will degrade over time. Examples of this type include chemically treated plastic or fabric sheets.
  • Reticulation systems involve fitted piping under the slabs and around the edges of a building with access points for insecticide injection.

Chemical termite barriers can be applied under, around a concrete slab or around the building piers or footings the termite inspection…

  • It creates a zone of treated soil that is good for many years.
  • If it is applied after construction, it will require trenching and concrete drilling the treatment we use is a product by BASF Termidor which has an 8 year $2M warranty against termites coming back which is a warranty that no other company will give.

Here are the chemicals used in termite inspection and management:

  • There is nothing that even comes close to Termidor read more about it HERE

Monitoring and bait stations

Monitoring and bait stations are a more expensive option due to the fact that they don’t stop termites they merely monitor them and in the long run they work out to be more expensive and we recommend either chemical or physical barriers to be installed instead.

How termite baiting stations work:

  • Pest technician will place the baiting stations immerged at various at various dug in around the perimeter of the property grounds.
  • These stations will be checked regularly and if needed, it will be repositioned. When termites are found, the bait station is replenished.
  • The termites take the bait with them back to their colony, spread the bait until the whole colony is eradicated.

It is not a good idea to use the monitoring and bait station as the only method of termite management because there is no guarantee that the termites will reach the bait.

  1. Obtaining Quotations

Termite treatment varies in cost depending on linear metre requirements for chemical barrier or physical barrier measurements   and product selected to do the job, price range $1,300 – $5,000. This price range given is for preventative treatment not taking into account of another several thousand dollars for any damage repairs.

If there is a need for a termite treatment:

  • Call more than one pest control service provider before hiring one. Examine their company, their services and prices.
  • Differentiate the options available, quotations and professionalism of those pest control service providers. Choose the one you are most comfortable with.
  • Study the type of solutions they offer. The cheapest solution may eradicate the termites in the short term while the more expensive approach may provide a long and better protection.
  • Look for testimonials and reviews from previous clients or word of mouth advertisement. It is a great basis if you are about to hire a reliable pest control service provider.

Questions to ask pest control companies:

  • How many years has the company been established?
  • Are they a member of any industry association?
  • Do they have a latest license?
  • Do they have a latest professional indemnity and public liability insurance certificates?
  • What are the skills and experiences of their pest control technicians?
  • Do their pest control technicians undergo regular trainings?
  • Do they follow the requirements of the Australian Standard? (AS4349.3 provides guidelines for inspecting buildings for timber pests; AS3660.2 deals with termite management in and around existing buildings and structures).
  • How long will the inspection take? (It should only take 1.5 hours)
  • Will the inspection also cover borers and wood-decay fungi?
  • Will they provide a written report?
  • If termites are found, what treatment methods do they usually recommend?
  • Will they explain the products they’re likely to use?

  1. Pest and Termite Inspection

Termite inspection usually costs around $250 – $350, depending on the size, style and ease of access. Annual termite inspection is recommended, even more so if your house is located in an area with high termite risk.

Ensure you are present during the inspection so you can be free to ask questions as you go around the property.
Check the following are checked by the termite technician.

  • All accessible timbers under the house and under the roof
  • Inside and outside the building and its surrounding
  • Fences, gardens, trees and stumps
  • Any other timber structures and trees within the property (up to 50 meters from the main building)
  • The presence and effectiveness of visible and accessible termite barriers
  • The vulnerability of the property to termite infestation (sub-floor ventilation and drainage, obvious damp areas, etc.)

The pest inspection report should include the following:

  • Areas inspected
  • Areas not inspected due to inaccessibility
  • Termite activity
  • A termite inspection and the management plan if termite activity is found. The detailing methods, costs, assessment of all options and the expected outcomes and limitations should also either be written in the report or discussed at length with the property owner.

  1. Requirements in licensing for inspectors and pest controllers

Do you know that licensing requirements for timber pest inspectors vary from state to state and they do have different requirements for this? To be honest, asking the pest inspector about their experiences in managing timber pests is more important than just checking their license.

The Australian standards require a pest inspector to possess a certain amount of technical knowledge and experience. Second, they should have knowledge about local building practices and the habits of termites, such as where they’re likely to be found and different indications of manifestation.

In order for a timber pest inspector to gain that level of proficiency, they should possess these various elements:

  • They should have done a minimum of 40 timber pest reports under direct and appropriate supervision.
  • They should have completed a timber inspection course.
  • They should have capabilities in units 8 and 10 (that tackles specifically in inspecting, reporting, and controlling timber pests) from the National Pest Management Competency Standards (or similar experience).

Accreditation programs and industry associations

The Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA) is the major industry association that sets standards for the pest management industries. It represents pest managers and administrators PestCert so that one would know that a specific pest management company meets the accreditation standards.

In order for a pest company to gain a PestCert accreditation, a pest manager should, first show exploratory learnings, skills, and experience with the up-to-date pest management technologies, practices, and tools. Secondly, they stick to the code of conduct. Lastly, one should be committed to maintaining on-going professional development.

  1. Insurance

Upon getting quotes, request for their professional indemnity and public insurance. You must also ask to see their certificates of currency.

  • Professional indemnity safeguards the pest control technicians against negligence claims resulting from quotations, inspections and treatments conducted.
  • Public liability insurance safeguards the pest control technicians against injuries and property damages arising from work performed.

  1. Warranties

Learn about the various warranties behind each of the products that has been recommended to you. In the case of BASF Termidor chemical termite barriers you should rest easy at night knowing that you have 8 years $2M protection against termites ever returning. Ask the technician about the different termite warranties and if it requires you to have annual termite inspections to keep the warranty valid.

Call our team who are termite professionals for all domestic and commercial termite inspection and management strategies and termite treatments on 0407 065 413.

Hoping you now know the importance of knowing termite inspection and what you need to do to prevent the termite inspection .

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Proper Termite Inspection In Your Property Canberra

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Proper Termite Inspection and Pest control was at a premium in Canberra this year with dry humid weather making it the perfect environment for termites and many other pests who were also more evident. CSIRO reported 1 in 3 homes in Canberra have either termite damage or termite activity.

Proper Termite Inspection In Your Property Canberra

Proper Termite Inspection In Your Property Canberra

Many people select as a cheaper option a visual termite inspection where the pest technicians look, listen and feel for signs that termites are active through tapping tools and moisture meters.

This method is thorough and relies on physical evidence that the termites are present.

A1 Pest Control Canberra can do either visual inspections but also likes to use the latest tools in thermal imaging which detect termite movement and body heat inside walls, floors and roofs before they do damage and is a useful tool for places where there is no crawl space or weather would permit the technician to climb on the roof or the property.

What attracts termites in the house?

Different scenarios can be attracting subterranean termites (or white ants) into your house. Sometimes, the things you are unmindful of doing are the ones that causes termite infestation.

In general, they create colonies around food sources. They love to munch on soft or rotting wood, so they seek moist spaces.

The following are possible reasons why there are termites in your home.

  1. Piles of Wood – Firewood and woodpiles can draw termites closer to your home. Once termites find these, they will migrate from the piles of wood to your home structure, slowly eating it away until great damage is done. To avoid this, stack wood at least 20 feet away from your house and 5 inches above the ground.
  2. Excess Foliage – As they rot, dead trees and stumps attract termites that later on will move to your house as well. Prevent this by removing any excess foliage from your yard.
  3. Tree Limbs and Leaves – These branches that touch your roof could give termites a pathway from the ground to your home. It’s important to have regular tree trimming so you could veer these termites off your roof.
  4. Clogged Gutters – If trees are nearby, chances are leaves and twigs build up in your gutter. This creates excess moisture that softens or rots your roof; enough reason to attract termites to penetrate your house. Cleaning gutters frequently can prevent a soft or rotting roof, and eventually dissuade termites from coming in.

Not giving termites a good food source around your home could keep them away. Make sure to keep your house clean, and regularly check wood, especially those prone to moisture, so you could avoid getting a termite infestation.

Once the problem arises though, it’s best to get a subterranean termite inspection for your house as soon as possible. If termite presence is confirmed, immediately consider having a termite control before it gets worse.

What does a termite inspector look for?

During the inspection, the trained termite inspector checks all accessible locations for signs of termite infestation and damage. 

Visible signs that should be looked out for include:

  • Wood damage
  • Mud tubes
  • Discarded wings
  • Termite exit holes
  • Termite droppings

They also look for moisture issues and wood-to-ground contact that are likely to have termite infestation.

How do you check for termites?

In A1Pest Control Canberra, the termite inspection process that we follow is up to the country’s standards. Pointing the device at various areas (see checklist below) the trained thermal imaging pest control technician not only picks up heat and movement, but it also picks up areas that have leaking pipes or electrical faults and other home maintenance problems before they are evident – saving money for the property owner.

TERMITE INSPECTION CHECKLIST

*Interior – Kitchen and bathroom cupboards, skirting boards and wooden door jams, carpet tracking strips, floor boards, ceilings and cornices, gyprock walls.

*Roof void – We systematically check other timbers in order of roof construction – top plates, ceiling joists, hanging beams, strutting beams, struts, and collar ties.

*Subfloors – We inspect brick, concrete or limestone piers with ant caps. We check possible leads which may bridge capping into floor bearers and joists.

*Exterior – Inspection of window frames, fascia boards and any wooden items that are part of, or attached to the home. Gardens and property are also inspected and this includes trees, landscaping, boundary fences old stumps and storage areas.

Remember it’s what you can’t see and goes undetected that does the most damage!

You can call our team on 0407 065 413 to book your proper termite inspection today.

How much should a termite inspection cost?

In Australia, the average costs for a standard three-bedroom house depend on the termite inspection services requested. A general visual inspection usually costs around $200 to $250, while a more advanced technology using thermal imaging ranges from $450 to $550 or more.

Keep in mind though that prices vary and depend also on the products used. Do not simply go for affordable services because it is way cheaper. Instead, always consider how the quality of service gives value to your money.

Most importantly, it should be able to help you solve your problems with these disgusting termites.

How much does it cost to treat a house for termites?

Once your termite inspector confirms the presence of termites in your property, it is necessary to take action right away. Remember that these pests work hard every day, constantly munching on your wood and slowly weakening the foundations of your house.

Termites can cause great damage amounting to thousands of dollars as you might be required to totally replace parts of your home that has been destroyed. To avoid spending so much money on repair costs, get the proper termite treatment based on the results of your termite inspection.

Termite treatment costs typically range from $2000 to $5000 for an average size home and depending on location, type of construction, chemical used, insurance coverage, and warranties applied.

Hope you found this information helpful. Please call our team on 0407 065 413 to help you with your termite problems at home.

 

 

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4 Simple Step Termite Maintenance Plan

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There is no one-size-fits-all strategy when it comes to termite control. At A1 Pest Control Canberra, we tailor fit our termite maintenance plan according to our client’s current pest problem and type of property. Our team of pest control specialists will go through a step-by-step procedure to effectively eradicate termites in your property and to provide long-term protection against these pests.

Step 1: An expert termite inspection including termite plan

Before conceptualizing and implementing a termite control strategy, our pest technicians will visit your property to conduct an in-depth site inspection. We need to identify the affected areas of the property and assess the severity of the termite problem. From our findings, we will create a termite control plan tailored to the specific need and current termite problem of your property.

Step 2: Get rid of termites on your property as a priority

At the heart of our termite control plan is an effective method of termite elimination. Based on the result of our inspection, we will implement our method that we know can most effectively solve your current termite problem.

Step 3: Discuss with you a termite maintenance strategy

At A1 Pest Control Canberra, we don’t stop at just getting rid of pests. Our objective for every client is to maintain a pest-free environment. Our specialists will discuss with you a termite maintenance plan that includes a list of our recommended steps to protect your property against termites for a long period.

Step 4: Detailed report with our recommendations

As we want our clients to be properly informed about the result of our termite control plan, we provide a detailed to Australia Standards-compliant report about our findings, the treatment method we applied and our recommended long-term termite maintenance strategy.

Aside from providing you a simple 4-step termite maintenance plan, here are other reasons to entrust your property to A1 Pest Control Canberra:

  • We have more than 3 decades of experience providing clients with effective termite treatment and maintenance services in pre-construction, commercial and residential properties.
  • Our termite management methods are environmentally friendly.
  • We use Termidor, a chemical treatment proven to be effective in termite control.
  • Our termite control services come with an 8-year warranty worth $2M.
  • Kordon
  • Term seal
  • Term guard
  • Home guard
  • TriThor
  • Granite guard
  • Sentricon 1 & 2 – Stations monitoring
  • Exterra – Station monitoring
  • Nemisis – Stations monitoring
  • Pre-Slats Treatment

We look forward to taking your call soon, for any more information call  0407 065 413

 

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TERMITE MANAGEMENT PLAN | WHY YOU NEED A TERMITE BARRIER.

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Termite management plan and why you need a termite barrier is something that we talk over with you the property owner and cover all of the various options so you can make an informed decision and select the best option to protect your property.

We break down the termite management plan in order for you to know the risks and benefits or dealing with termite attacks as we know that it can be a worrying time for the owner in not knowing what steps are to be taken should if any should live termites be found.

Some owners take a gamble and hope that after we treat the property that the live termites will not come back when there is NO guarantee that they won’t come back in fact they often do but in another section of the property.

When they are discovered they go and hide underground and at times come back to the same property in another area of the property.

The best protection is to have installed a chemical termite barrier and we highly recommend Termidor for the $2M 8 year assurance given that the termites will NOT return.

Call us on 0407 065 413 to talk about your termite management plan and by all means do not gamble by not having an annual inspection as it could cost you a lot of money

 

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HORROR TERMITE STORIES – EATING AWAY SILENTLY UNDISTURBED

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Did you know that the termite Queen produces 30,000 live termites per day! And in 6 months can eat away supporting beams of a house?

It was once said that termites are seasonal and are mostly around in the warmer months but today they have adapted to the colder months and now termites are a threat to Canberra property owners all year around.

It’s sad though that when a customer rings in to have a termite inspection and mentions the street that they are in, already we know that the risk is high that they will possibly have termites as we have already treated another 4 homes in that same street alone.

FACT

Chisholm home renovation pulled off the sheeting and found extensive termite damage, the termites were no longer active and the owner wanted to have an inspection before the renovation.

We found the termites had moved to juicier timber in the roof had these not been found the new renovation would have gone up and the termites would have had new soft timber to attack again.

OR

Imagine you see a little saw dust on the ground and sending your partner up into the roof and he touches the supporting beam and it disintegrates in his hands, he is now too scared to touch anything else for fear of the roof collapsing on him.

WHAT DOES IT COST?

Replacing a roof or a room and beams your repair bill is thousands of dollars of out of pocket money. Money, you were not intending to spend on repairs and if you don’t do anything your property is only worth the land it sits on the termites will eat it all.

Call our team on 0407 065 413 TODAY or visit our website A1 Pest Control Canberra the termite experts for all termite inspection and termite barriers.

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What do they look for in a termite inspection?

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What do they look for in a termite inspection is structural and moisture issues can include standing water on the roof, pooling water around the foundation, wood mulch close to the foundation, and wooden deck supports that touch the soil. A termite inspector looks for visible signs of termite infestation, including wood damage, mud tubes, buckling of the walls, spongy soft to the touch spots on and around door frames.

Included in the termite inspection may also include the following.

The inspection could include a checklist that is started from room to room that would include checking the roof, supporting beams, around door frames and leaking plumbing in the wet areas. Leading into the garden the inspector would be looking along the fence line for fence damage and trees in the yard and garden beds and pergola stirrups to see if the wood touches the ground.

Report that gives a follow up


The termite inspector would put together a report on what his findings and recommendations for the property. The report would also have recommendations on problem areas that could attract termites in future and if live termites are found there would be an action plan that would be discussed in detail with the owner.

LIVE Termites Stage 1 – the “chase out”

One of the recommendations would not only get rid of the termites commonly called the “chase out” where the termites are dusted and as they are very social would rub up against each other killing them off and eventually killing the Queen termite.

Stage 2 – Installing a termite barrier

After chasing the termites out there is no guarantee the termites would not attack the property again and then consideration would need to be given to install a termite barrier to protect the property and stop the termites gaining entry.

There are 2 main termite barriers which are commonly used the first is a chemical barrier where a small shallow trench is dug that encircles the property and under the piers and chemicals are inject into the ground in close proximity and the soil is replaced and you would not even be aware that the barrier has been installed.

We use a product called Termidor which has a $2M 8-year assurance that gives the owner peace of mind.

Bait stations are the other commonly used barrier where stations are dug into the earth and pieces of wood are inside the station and then the bait stations are supposed to be checked regularly to see if the termites have taken the bait.

The trouble is that these stations are often forgotten to be checked giving no assurance that the termites have not invaded the property.

A1 Pest Control Canberra are termite experts and offer both visual and offer state of the art thermal image termite inspections and termite barriers if we can help you with termite or other general pest problems please call TODAY 0407 065 413

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What Are Termites Attracted To and Why Termite Damage is Preventable?

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Great question, what are termites attracted to and why termite damage is preventable.

Let’s start to talk about termite habitat:

Termites are attracted to warm, dark, moist areas where the Queen termite can eat, live and then start to lay hundreds of live termites in her nest while the worker termites key objective is to look for timber to feed the Queen and the workers start mud tracts to lead to the food source.

Any damp areas within your home are likely to attract termites, particularly places where there’s plenty of wood.

• Don’t store wood piles and lean it close to the house or garage
• If there are leaky taps or pipes fix them and pay special attention to the garden tap outside that is close to the house
• If you have posts for pergola in contact with the soil or fences that are not treated the termites have a field day with this.
• If you have taken down a tree grind it into the ground as this is the perfect termite fodder.

I have talked about case studies where people have put the key in the door and the door has fallen backwards on the floor as the termites had eaten all the doorframes! Or the homeowner that thought they had termites and took down the sheeting and disturbed the termites and they scattered.

The home owner was smart enough to call in a pest control company (US) and although they had left the bedroom which is fine BUT you can’t be guaranteed that they will not return so you could very well replace the sheeting only to have the termites return.

We inspected in the roof void and here they were alive and well.

Why Termite Damage is Preventable?

As you can see there are many things you can check to ensure to minimize attracting termites and also having a termite inspection on an annual basis is a good practice to get into but the one thing that deters termites is a termite barrier we use termite chemical barriers as it has $2M 8 year assurance and NO other company can give that guarantee.
Ring our team today on 0407 065 413.

Now you know what attracts termites and why termite damage is preventable.

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TERMITES ON THE INCREASE YOU NEED A TERMITE INSPECTION.

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Not to alarm people but purely to make them aware that Termites are on the increase and even the CSIRO recommends that houses be inspected for termites at a minimum annually!

When we inspect properties, and find termite activity you can see the stress on the property owners face when you point out the damage the termites have already done to the house, fences and landscaping timbers.

“The change in weather patterns over time in the ACT has contributed to a rise in termite activity every year since we started working here 2012” says Bob Waters manager of A1 Pest Control Canberra.

Recently we were alerted by a tenant who thought they just had a swarm of bugs flying in their house. It ended up being a huge flight of termites that had burst through an internal wall and had damaged the structure. (see attached picture)

So how do you get on top of a potential termite problem?

“Termites are very hard to see and can be difficult to find, but in as little as three months they can severely damage almost all the timber in your property,” says Bob.

“You need ongoing annual checks to keep on top of matters.”

Typical signs of termite infestation:

  • Mud leads, which are tunnels made of mud. They usually appear on the outside of a house, subfloor, or roof void, including on brickwork or concrete. Termites travel through these tunnels.
  • Timber with gaps and holes that crumbles when touched.
  • Damaged wood, especially when the wood makes a dull thud when you strike it with something hard, such as a hammer or your vacuum cleaner.
  • Swarms of what look like ants flying in and around your house.

For preventative termite treatment book in to inspect your property TODAY 0407 065 413

 

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“ATTENTION PEST OWNERS CANBERRA”

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Yes I said pest owners because you are caring for and feeding pests without knowing it!

People are under the impression that pests are seasonal which some pests are of course as they use the colder months to breed and will immerge with their young in spring and summer.

BUT the pests that I am talking about is termites who can happily munch away throughout the different seasons undisturbed and doing a lot of damage before they are discovered. It’s usually when you see physical signs that just do not look right like the bubbling of paintwork or touching solid surfaces that are now spongy OR you could see sawdust on the floorboards that first alert you that you now have a termite problem.

The trouble is that people as a general rule are reactive rather than proactive with their pest control meaning that they wait for a problem then treat it. This sort of reactive treatment is more expensive because if you are waiting to see signs it means that there is already costly damage to woodwork done and its not until you have a termite inspection that you can then add up the cost of the repair.

Include annual termite inspection as part of your general maintenance to keep you pest free.
Call our team on 0407 065 413

 

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TERMITE PROTECTION STARTS WITH AN INSPECTION Call 0407 065 413

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Imagine this. you have or are buying a property and you see it has had a visual termite inspection but what jumps out at you on the report is one or more of the following.

• Not able to gain access to the subfloor
• Wet weather could not access the roof etc.

Termites gain access when dirt meets wood if they can not gain access through the dirt they build mud tracks that can reach up to 7 feet tall to gain entry to your home.

Do you take a gamble and hope like hell there are no termites in the areas that were not able to gain entry?

Let me tell you something, you may gamble that there were no termites in that area but recently we have been called in where people DO find termites 6 months after moving in to their property OR a potential buyer orders a thermal image inspection and finds termites which delays the sale as the buyer negotiates to factor this treatment into lowering the price or at worse walks away from buying the property altogether.

Thermal imaging can pick up termite body heat and movement through walls, floors and under the house it will even pick up house faults like leaking pipes behind walls this saves you thousands of dollars.

CALL OUR TEAM 0407 065 413 or visit our website A1 Pest Control Canberra

 

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HINTS AND TIPS TERMITE PROTECTION

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Reduce the risk of a termite infestation in your home:

• Repair any water leaks and moisture issues. Water-damaged walls, leaks in roofs, bathrooms and sink areas create favorable conditions for termites to flourish.

• Clean gutters and repair downspouts. Keep gutters clear and free-flowing to avoid clogs which may eventually lead to water damage.

• Drain water away from exterior walls and foundation. Ensure all drain lines, such as air conditioner drainage lines, release water at least 30.48 cm or 12 inches away from the foundation.

• Trim back shrubs and landscape plants from exterior walls. Shrubs and plants can trap moisture, which is critical for termite survival. Over-grown plants can provide a hidden avenue for termites and prevent thorough visual inspection.

• Keep ground cover below the bottom of the exterior siding. Ground cover, such as mulch and pine straw, that has built up over the bottom of wall coverings, provide a hidden avenue for termites. Ground cover should be at least 15.24cm or 6 inches below the bottom of exterior wall coverings.

• Monitor irrigation systems. Ensure sprinklers are adjusted properly to spray away from foundation and walls.

Ensure you have a comprehensive termite inspection by a professional termite company. At A1 Pest Control Canberra, our inspections can use the state of the art thermal imaging to see pests before they can do damage.

Call our team today 0407 065 413 Image may contain: house, screen and outdoor

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EOFY PEST CONTROL FOR LANDLORDS IS A MUST…

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As the end of financial year draws near there is no better time for landlords to ensure preventative maintenance is done on your rental property.

Having either a termite inspection or general pest control is a way to keep your property free from termites or general creepy crawlies and have a legitimate tax deduction at the same time.

 

PROTECT YOUR BIGGEST INVESTMENT – YOUR PROPERTY

Check with your CPA but as termites are not covered under general insurance having an inspection on your rental property just makes sense.

Call Bob 0407 065 413 he can do either a visual inspection or use the latest thermal imaging technology to see problems before the damage is done!

Email us at bob@a1pestcontrolcanberra.com.au

 

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A TERMITE INSPECTION WOULD OF SAVED THIS HOUSE….

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http://a1pestcontrolcanberra.com.au

My brother Bruce Gow has a pest control company in Sydney and today he sent me a house in Baulkham Hills just around the corner from his own home in Bella Vista that was eaten away by termites.

The damage was so severe that the whole house needed to be demolished and the sad fact is that this is NOT COVERED by insurance!

For a small cost of an annual termite inspection the termite problem could of been picked up 12 months earlier, treated and a chemical barrier installed and this would of saved the property.

The favourite food of the termite is wood and we live in the bush capital and we are seeing more termite activity especially from those renovating, replacing fences, in stumps that were not grinded in pipes that were leaking behind the walls and the owners were not aware.

Get thermal imaging to detect your property before termites do damage. Its well worth the cost of an annual inspection against paying for a new property that was eaten away with NO insurance to cover the damage.

Ring Us on 0407 065 413 or email us info.a1pestcontrolcanberra@gmail.com

NOTE: If you are a landlord you can claim this under property maintenance.

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TERMITE INSPECTION CHECKLIST

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Pest control was at a premium in Canberra this year with dry humid weather making it the perfect environment for termites and many other pests who were also more evident.

What is involved in a termite inspection?

Many people select as a cheaper option a visual termite inspection where the pest technicians look and listen for signs that termites are active through tapping tools and moisture meters.

This is method is not as thorough and relies on physical evidence that the termites are present.

A1 Pest Control Canberra can do visual inspections but prefers to use the latest tools in thermal imaging which detects termites inside walls, floors and roofs before they do damage.

Pointing the device at various areas (see checklist below) the trained thermal imaging pest control technician picks up heat, movement, damp areas and home maintenance problems before they are evident – saving money for the property owner.

 

 

TERMITE INSPECTION CHECKLIST

*Interior – Kitchen and bathroom cupboards, skirting boards and wooden door jams, carpet tracking strips, floor boards, ceilings and cornices, gyprock walls.

*Roof void – We systematically check other timbers in order of roof construction – top plates, ceiling joists, hanging beams, strutting beams, struts, underpurlins and collar ties.

*Subfloors – We inspect brick, concrete or limestone piers with ant caps. We check possible leads which may bridge capping into floor bearers and joists.

*Exterior – Inspection of window frames, fascia boards and any wooden items that are part of, or attached to the home. Gardens and property are also inspected and this includes trees, landscaping, boundary fences old stumps and storage areas.

Hope you found this information helpful please call Bob 0407 065413 to book in your termite inspection today.

Remember its what you can’t see and goes undetected does the most damage!

 

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FREE Thermal Imaging When Selling Your Home In Canberra!

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Free thermal Imaging its a catchy headline right? Everyone loves a free anything but this is so true in Canberra alone as the seller needs to prepare their home to sell and needs to organise both building and pest inspections to give to their solicitor to ensure that the property is clear of termites and asbestos.

The buyer then buys the report off the owner at exchange and therefore is FREE to the seller!

This is only in Canberra ACT not in any of the other states.

Many sellers will take the visual termite inspection BUT this really does not give peace of mind to the buyer especially when its noted on the report that “weather did no permit access” or “not enough space under the flooring to inspect!”

THERMAL IMAGING Vs VISUAL INSPECTION

Thermal imaging will pick up not only termites, body heat & movement long before they do damage BUT building faults such as:

– roof leaks, bathroom leaks

– a/c duct leaks

– potential plumbing issues

– moisture & mold

– missing insulation

– electrical concerns

Basically, weather does not permit an inspection as thermal imaging sees through walls, concrete etc..

Compared to the visual termite inspection look around and tapping done by the inspector PLUS even when the property is sold and the new owners find new problems – the real estate agent will hear all about it and will need to act.

This is annoying to the seller as it not only delays selling the property but the buyer will use what they find in their investigation to negotiate a further discount on the property as they will need to fix the problem at their own cost.

Its therefore a lot less stressful to have a thorough thermal imaging done before putting it on the market.

Save yourself the trouble get a full thermal imaging termite report that will pick up any termite movement, moisture or body heat PLUS the added advantage of finding undetected house faults!

Call Bob 0407 065 413 A1 Pest Control Canberra to book your thermal image termite inspection TODAY!

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A1 Pest Control Canberra Thermal Imaging Is A Must Selling Your Home

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This is a really important message to put out because one of the first things that a seller needs to do to prepare their home to go on the market is to organise both building and pest inspections as this is included in the contract that the solicitor puts together the report that must show that the property is clear of termites and asbestos.

The buyer then buys the report off the owner at exchange. Receipts are attached and this is only in ACT not any other states.

In effect the reports cost the seller NOTHING as the buyer reimburses the seller.

WHAT STOPS OR DELAYS A SALE

If the prospect is considering buying the property they are sometimes disappointed at seeing comments seen on a termite or building visual pest report:

– weather prevented entry to roof
– not able to access to inspect etc

The buyer is left wondering if there are termites and or building faults and are left to decide do I accept this report and gamble and pray its all fine or do I order another report?

There is only one way to ensure a property gets a thorough inspection and that is through having a thermal imaging inspection.

One of the best things that having this type of inspection it not only picks up termite movement, body heat and moisture before any damage and also weather and space restrictions do not effect thermal imaging inspection at ALL….

BUT WAIT THERE IS MORE….

Thermal imaging will pick up termite, movement, body heat & moisture long before there is any damage BUT also building faults such as:

– roof leaks, bathroom leaks
– a/c duct leaks
– potential plumbing issues
– moisture & mold
– missing insulation
– electrical concerns

Where the visual inspection can not detect many of the problems outlined above this could be the VERY reason an astute buyer would want you to knock many thousands off the price when you could get the thermal imaging done and fix any potential problem.

BUYER BEWARE

If the home you are purchasing does have a complete visual pest report on the most important buying decision you will make GET A THERMAL IMAGING REPORT TODAY

Many times we have been called by distressed buyers who have gambled with visual inspection reports that they have not been able to gain access to certain areas….and guess what? That is the very area that the problem was!

Call Bob 0407 065 413 TODAY… bob@a1pestcontrolcanberra.com.au

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Discovers 9 Queen Termites

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A1 Pest Control Canberra Discovers 9 Queen Termites!
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Today we sent the team out to Kambah for a termite inspection on a tree that was cut down last year and the stump had been decorated with gnomes.

We found the colony and in the royal chamber there were 9 Queen Termites. This will mean after the chase out we will be doing a barrier around the house to protect the home from the termites.

While the inspection was taking place the woman next door is also wanting a termite inspection. A lot of our days lately are on termites and advising courses of action to take.

FACTS ABOUT TERMITES.

1) there is only 1 Queen termite who’s main purpose is to lay up to approx 30,000 eggs per day! The other 8 we found today are to ensure the colony lives on should something happen to the Queen.

2) a Queen & King will only fly once and that is to find a place to start a new colony and then will shed their wings and never fly again.

3) a Queen termite can live up to 50 years of age in her lifetime lay 165 million eggs. The worker termites only live around a year but are easily replaced by the Queen.

4) worker termites are there to feed the Queen and find food sources for themselves.

5) The only way to successfully kill a termite colony is by killing the queen. She never leaves her chambers you have to find a way of getting to her.

Killing all the workers is not enough as she can quickly replace them.

Call Bob TODAY for all your pest needs 0407 065 413

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PPI Canberra

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PPI Canberra 

PPI CanberraWhat is expected of the home buyer
Do you need to arrange a PPI? Canberra residents who are considering buying a home need to take a variety of precautions and one of those should be a PPI – that’s a pre-purchase inspection.

Canberra has a healthy termite population and when you’re making such a major investment, you want to know that your new home isn’t going to come with a termite damage repair bill!

Home buyers should arrange for a termite report before committing to a purchase. As your conveyancer or lawyer may tell you, it’s possible to make your offer ‘subject to’ the outcome of the inspection.

Many Canberra suburbs are affected by termites and some suburbs are considered a particularly high risk, so the money spent on a pre-purchase termite inspection can be money well spent.

While there are many different species of termite, it is the subterranean termites that tend to do the most damage in New South Wales. The biggest problem for homeowners is that these termites can travel into the home unseen via underground tunnels.

Once they’re in the home they’re just as difficult to spot – because they attack wood from the inside, where they’re out of view, rather than from the outside. Termite damaged wood can appear perfectly normal on the outside to the untrained eye.

The good news is that your local termite expert has been trained to identify the signs of termite presence. Many termite inspectors now use highly specialized equipment like thermal imaging cameras, moisture detectors and termite radars in the search for termites.

 PPI (pre-purchase inspection) Tips

PPI CanberraTermite experts who have up to date equipment are able to provide a very thorough termite PPI. Canberra homes are in a region where termites are plentiful so if you’re buying a home, the small amount of money you spend on a termite pre-purchase termite inspection might prove very worthwhile if there is evidence of active termites.

A quick pre-purchase of pest inspections is very possible; therefore, even if you’re in a hurry to have your offer accepted or your purchase finalized, don’t rush into a deal without doing your due diligence!

Termite damage can run into the thousands, which makes the $160-360 you might spend on a PPI in Canberra very good value.

And once you’re in your new home, don’t forget to arrange regular termite inspections. If you’re in high-risk suburb, talk to your termite expert about other options that may give your home additional protection.

How do you arrange a PPI? Canberra home buyers can contact termite expert Bob Waters on 0407- 065-413 for more information or to arrange an inspection time.

Here are 5 good reasons why you may want to deal with our firm

  1. You will receive knowledgeable information about your situation or pest management problem
  2. No pushy sales persons forcing you into a treatment you don’t want
  3. We only use the safest low or non-toxic treatments that are pet and child friendly
  4. Your Termite Inspection will be only be carried out with insured, accredited technicians. We carry the latest thermal imaging camera and tracking tools, ensuring that you get the very best and most accurate inspection in the industry.
  5. Your service is guaranteed with our company, with a rock solid, money-back policy if we don’t deliver or keep our promises. That’s what has built our business over the years, and why we keep getting repeat business from our happy clients.

PPI Canberra

Call us today on 0407 065 413 for a friendly chat about your situation or send us a message Bob@A1pestcontrolcanberra.com.au for a free quote.

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White Ant Control

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 White Ant Control

White Ant ControlIf you are concerned about white ant control or perhaps. you have a problem with white ants in your area or on your property the time to act is now.  White ants more correctly called termites are a common pest in suburban Australia. The risk of infestation is quite high in many areas so it’s important to have a white ant control strategy plan in place.

For those who don’t undertake some type of white ant control can end up paying a high price for ignoring the problem.  As although white ants may be tiny but they have voracious appetites and can leave a large repair bill for the homeowner. White ant control and prevention is essential if you want to protect your home and property.

Where to Start with Your – White Ant Control

White ant control really start from the time that you purchase a new home. If you’ve built a new home, some sort of white ant control will most likely be in place but it’s up to you to take responsibility for future white ants control.

Say if you’re purchasing an existing home, consider making it conditional on a satisfactory termite inspection report  if you don’t and termites are present, white ant control and treatment along with repairs to your new home may cost much more than your overall budget!

Once you’re in your new home, your white ant control strategy should involve a professional inspection once or twice per year. At just $200 to $350 for the average suburban home, it’s great value for money. You can also participate in your own strategy by learning about white ants and the tell-tale signs of their presence around your home and in the garden.

White Ant CanberraNot only can white ants be highly destructive, but the type of white ant most likely to attack your Australian home the subterranean termite who works undercover and are hard to spot, making your white ant control strategy very important.

If you’re in an area where termites are prevalent, you may prefer to take your white ant control a step further than regular inspections and have a termite barrier placed around your home. Chemical barriers are frequently used as a means of white ant control.

Chemical Barriers

Pest control methods have come a long way in recent years. Increased understanding of termite behaviour has brought about the development of new white ant control methods that utilize the termites’ grooming and feeding habits against them.

One of these modern methods is a chemical barrier that cannot be detected by termites, allowing the poison to be transported into the termite colony and passed on to others. Many pest controllers believe this is a very effective form of white ant control.

More Advice that will Assist in White Ant Control

Only use timbers and wood chips that have been treated to deter termites ensure you don’t stack wood against your home or in areas that are close by, removing old tree stumps, and not having shrubbery up against the home can aid white ant control by making the area less attractive to termites.

After reading this information and you still are concerned about white-ants or you have been alerted to the fact that you may have white ant activity for peace of mind you should organise for a pest inspection, or contact your local timber pest expert for advice.

There are 5 excellent reasons why you should deal with our firm:
  1. We will give you straight talk that is knowledgeable about your situation or pest management problem.
  2. As we are a family owned business you will not be dealing with a pushy sales personstalking you into a treatment you don’t need.
  3. Rest assured we only use the safest low or non-toxic treatments that are pet and child friendly
  4. Your Termite Inspection will be only be carried out with insured, accredited technicians. We carry the latest tracking tools, ensuring that you get the very best and most accurate inspection each and every time.
  5. Your service is guaranteed with our company, with a rock solid, money-back policy if we don’t deliver or keep our promises. That’s what has built our business over the years, and why we keep getting repeat business from our happy clients.

Call us today on 0407 065 413 for a friendly talk about your pest situation or email me for a free quote
bob@a1pestcontrolcanberra.com.au

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Termite Inspection Canberra

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Termite Inspection Canberra Homes at Risk

Termite Inspection CanberraA termite inspection in Canberra is something most homeowners endeavour to do on a very regular basis. Some will arrange annual inspections, those at high risk may have twice yearly inspections, and a few homeowners will forget, or opt not to arrange a one at all. If you’re considering arranging a timber pest inspection, why not learn a little more about the process before you book in and I will explain the process.

Termite inspection Canberra certificate is required from ACTPLA when building a new home.  This has now been mandatory for some time now and building inspectors will not sign off a completion certificate unless this step is complete.

Why you need to have a termite inspection

Termites particularly subterranean termites are prevalent in most areas of suburban Canberra. The amount of damage they can do to a home in a matter of months is quite astounding considering their size.

Regular inspections are vital for homeowners who don’t want to risk being faced with a big timber damage repair bill. An expert evaluation of Canberra homes can help by detecting the presence of termites as early as possible.

When you’re buying a home, a pre-purchase inspection is a very wise idea – it could save you purchasing a home that has thousands of dollars worth of damage that wasn’t visible at an open home!

So what’s involved in Termite Inspection Canberra?

Locating termites in a home isn’t easy, so a termite expert should always carry out inspections. Termites are discreet in their eating and travelling habits they travel out of view in mud tunnels and eat out of view inside the wood, leaving the exterior intact. A qualified timber pest inspector needs to thoroughly examine a home including the roof void, sub floor, the exterior of the dwelling, and the grounds.

Termite Inspection CanberraA report should contain information about active termites and any visible termite damage at the time, identify the species of termite, and provide information on termite protection and prevention. If some areas were inaccessible, the report should specify the areas that were not inspected or obstructed.

Termite Inspection Canberra costs so little to protect your assett:

The cost of a visual termite inspection is usually around $200-$350.

Another very important reason to arrange something a regular basis is that termite damage is not covered by your home insurance policy.

If you need to arrange a termite inspection, Canberra expert opinion, or a pest report, call a qualified timber pest expert.

Call Bob on 0407 065 413 if you have a problem with termites, or a home that needs to be inspected or just email me Bob@A1pestcontrolcanberra.com.au

Pest Inspection canberra

Our service areas includes all Canberra suburbs, Queanbeyan, Braidwood, Bungendore, Goulburn and Yass.

Ensure that you put termite inspection Canberra on your to do list annually.

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