Termites

Termites, also called white ants (although not related to ants), are a part of the natural environment but can cause significant damage to timber structures. They generally have pale brown to white bodies with a darker head and have no waist between the thorax and abdomen.

Limiting Termites

Regular inspection of your home and the surrounding area and keeping your property free of stored timbers will go a long way towards limiting damage to your dwelling.

1. Inspection of the areas around the building, the external lower edges and secluded spaces such as the under-floor
2. Piers and stumps should be examined for mud tubes by viewing with a torch. In some cases 'ant caps' or shields may have been included with the original construction of supports and floor bearers
3. The presence of winged ants usually on summer nights indicates the possibility of a termite colony nearby and should prompt a check.

Do's

If you suspect a termite infestation in your home

1. Obtain a professional Termite Inspection Report
2. A thorough inspection of the buildings and surrounds
3. A written inspection report and detailed specifications to A.S.3660 for an integrated termite control program.
   It is recommended you take careful consideration of the report from the pest control operator and request a second opinion from other operators before consenting to further treatment.

Don'ts

• Do not disturb the area or attempt to spray the termites with insect spray as this will likely move the insects on into other areas rather than eradicate them
• Ensure water leakage from plumbing pipes in the bathroom, the shower recess, kitchen, down pipes, guttering and air conditioning unit overflow is diverted away from the dwelling using Ag drains.
• Removal of any timber in contact with the soil. Timbers should be stored above ground level to allow full inspection for termite activity
• If your home is on concrete slab make sure you can inspect the entire external slab edge for evidence of termite mud-shelter tubes. Do NOT allow this area to be covered by pavers, landscaping, planter pots, etc, as termites often gain entry into the wall cavity through external weep holes and gaps in the mortar of brick-work.

Contact Us

Council Health and Building departments can provide basic advice on termite identification and treatment. It is recommended that a pest control operator is engaged for more extensive problems. Consult the Yellow pages for reference to a pest control operator in your local area.

For further information contact Environmental Health Officer (03) 9768 1317 or via e-mail  correspondence@frankston.vic.gov.au.

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