Termites are sometimes also known as white ants, but few people would know they’re neither an ant nor a mite—they are, in fact, a type of cockroach.
The tiny little creature is often associated with the summer, but one Queensland pest controller has discussed how termites can present a risk to homes all year round, sometimes even sneaking in in unexpected ways.
Pest controller Jhy Carroll from EBS Queensland Pest Control recently warned households against stocking up on firewood indoors after one client discovered a termite infestation around a fireplace where wood had been stockpiled.
The situation ended up costing the homeowner around $4,000, and it’s not the only winter danger householders need to be aware of.
“Although subterranean termites are more active in summer, they will still continue to consume timber throughout the winter months, which can lead to destructive damage to your home if they go undetected for a period of time,” Carroll told The Epoch Times.
Another thing people may not be aware of is the tell-tale signs of termites, which are not always obvious.
Strange textures on internal walls, areas that are soft and uneven around doors and windows are all fairly standard signs that could indicate a termite infestation.
But less-known signs include water leaks and water damage, especially in rooms with water sources.
Termites also love to live in garden beds and mulch, which is why residents should aim to keep some distance between gardens and their home’s external surfaces.
“South East Queensland is very high risk for termite activity with one in every three houses being attacked by termites,” Carroll said.
“Regular termite inspections and installing a prevention system are essential to limit the risk of termite activity to your investment.”
Termites can also inhabit office buildings, with Carroll recently removing a massive termite colony from the inner-city Brisbane suburb of West End.
What to Know
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission says termites are an issue everywhere, but can be more common in northern parts of Queensland where they thrive in humidity.Nationwide, termites infest one in five homes and can cause irreparable structural damage within 12 months.
Termites are also not covered by home insurance in Australia due to insects being classed as a “preventable problem,” though some companies may offer special termite insurance policies.
Because of how common termite damage is in Australia, insurance company premiums would rise significantly if it were to be included in standard cover.
Termites themselves have complex social structures comprising kings, queens, soldiers, and workers.
Kings and queens generally head the colony, while soldier termites tend to have larger jaws for crushing invaders such as ants.
Workers tend to account for most of the general population, building and repairing termite homes and egg nurseries.
Some termites can take flight in search of new colonies.
