TL;DR
- Termites cause more than $200 million in property damage across Australia every year, much of it to commercial buildings.
- Commercial termite inspections cover a much larger area than residential ones, including walls, ceilings, foundations, crawl spaces and stored materials.
- Modern inspections use thermal imaging, infrared cameras and moisture meters alongside a thorough visual check.
- Low-risk commercial properties need at least an annual inspection, while food service and pharmaceutical sites may need monthly or weekly checks.
- Every inspection ends with a written report that should be acted on promptly to prevent further damage.
Australia has more than 350 species of termite, and some are extremely destructive. Termites are estimated to cause over $200 million in property damage each year, much of it to commercial buildings.
The most destructive species is the subterranean termite, which lives underground in colonies numbering in the millions. Subterranean termites move through long tunnels and can cause severe structural damage to a building before they are ever seen.
Why Commercial Buildings Carry a High Termite Risk
Termites are a threat to both residential and commercial buildings, entering through tiny gaps and cracks to consume wooden structures and fittings. Because commercial buildings are generally much bigger and more spread out than homes, they have more potential entry points and are harder to fully inspect.
The main food source for termites is damp wood. Commercial buildings contain plenty of timber and often have damp areas, so conditions can be ideal for termites to feed and breed. Termites can be present in a commercial building for a long time before they are detected, and by then it can be too late to save the structure from serious damage.
How Commercial Termite Inspections Differ From Residential Ones
A termite inspection is a systematic check of a property for live termite activity, existing damage and the conditions that attract termites in the first place. Commercial and residential inspections share the same purpose: identify termites so they can be eradicated, and identify entry points and attractants so future ingress is prevented. Both will look for:
- Possible entry points, such as cracks and gaps in walls.
- Evidence of activity, such as mud tubes, discarded wings and droppings.
- Damage to wood, shown by visible signs, hollow sounds when tapped and peeling paint.
Commercial inspections differ mainly in scale. Walls, ceilings, foundations and crawl spaces are checked for signs of activity, wood and stored materials are checked for damage, and water leaks are identified. Prompt action is essential once a problem is found.
The Technology Used in Modern Commercial Termite Detection
Although visual checks play a big part in our commercial termite inspections, technology is increasingly important. Termites are usually hidden behind walls and in ceilings, so specialist devices help detect their presence without opening up the structure.
Thermal imaging and infrared cameras can identify subtle temperature differences that indicate termite activity or building issues that aren’t otherwise obvious. Moisture meters reveal where there is excess water, often from leaking pipes, that will attract termites. These advanced detection tools are highly effective and cause no damage to the property.
Recommended Inspection Frequency for Commercial Properties
Early detection is essential since it avoids unnecessary damage and disruption. We recommend at least an annual inspection, which is normally sufficient for low-risk offices and other commercial spaces.
High-risk areas that store perishable materials may need a six-monthly inspection, while businesses such as food service and pharmaceuticals, which have strict hygiene standards, may require monthly or even weekly checks. We can advise on the schedule that best suits your business.
What Happens After an Inspection: Understanding Your Report
Once a thorough inspection is complete, you’ll receive a written report of the findings. This details any termite activity found, the extent of any damage, water leaks detected and any weaknesses in your building’s defences.
It’s vital you read the report and act on its findings. Eradicate any termites before further damage is caused, fix any water leaks and seal any cracks that allow entry.
The Real Cost of Ignoring Termite Activity in a Business Premises
A termite infestation in a commercial building can cause real harm to a business:
- Employees and customers are put at risk.
- Termite damage is rarely covered by standard building insurance, so repair costs are usually paid by the business.
- Shutdowns during eradication and repair prevent normal operations.
- Failure to comply with health and safety regulations can result in financial penalties.
- Reputational damage causes long-term losses.
Businesses will inevitably suffer financial losses due to termite infestations. With our help, you can prevent this from ever happening, so get in touch straightaway.
FAQs
How often should a commercial building be inspected for termites?
Low-risk commercial properties should be inspected at least annually. High-risk sites, such as those storing perishable goods or operating in food service and pharmaceuticals, may need checks every one to six months.
Are termites covered by commercial building insurance?
Termite damage is rarely covered by standard commercial building insurance, which is one of the main reasons early detection through regular inspections is so important.
What is the biggest sign of termite activity in a commercial building?
Mud tubes, discarded wings, hollow-sounding timber and peeling paint are among the clearest signs of termite activity, though many infestations remain hidden until an inspection uncovers them.