Step-by-step process for your inspection 

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When a termite technician arrives at a home in Lake Macquarie, NSW, their job is to inspect the property for termite activity, identify conditions that may attract termites, assess any damage and explain their findings to the homeowner.

The following is a practical, professional workflow for a residential termite inspection.

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The technician's process from arrival to completion

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Step 1: Arrive and speak with the homeowner

The technician introduces themselves, confirms the inspection details and asks whether the homeowner has noticed any signs of termites, such as mud tubes, damaged timber or flying termites.

They also ask about previous termite treatments, barriers and earlier inspection reports.

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Step 2: Inspect the outside perimeter

The technician walks around the entire accessible exterior of the home, checking the foundations, slab edges, weep holes, garden beds, drainage and downpipes.

They look for mud leads, termite entry points, timber touching soil and moisture problems that could attract termites.

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Step 3: Inspect the interior of the home

The technician checks accessible rooms, paying particular attention to skirting boards, door frames, window frames, cupboards, laundries and bathrooms.

They look for bubbling paint, damaged timber, mud trails, hollow sounds and moisture readings that may indicate a problem.

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Step 4: Inspect the roof void

If safe and accessible, the technician enters the roof space and examines timber trusses, rafters, roof supports and other accessible timber.

They look for termite workings, damaged wood, moisture issues and evidence of previous termite activity.

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Step 5: Inspect the subfloor

If the house has a subfloor and it is safely accessible, the technician examines the bearers, joists, stumps, piers and surrounding ground.

They check for termite mud tubes, damaged timber, poor ventilation, excess moisture and possible termite entry points.

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Step 6: Check the yard and surrounding structures

The technician examines accessible timber structures such as decks, pergolas, fences, retaining walls and garden sheds, along with relevant tree stumps and stored timber.

They identify potential termite nesting areas and conditions that may increase the risk of termites reaching the home.

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Step 7: Use inspection tools and record findings

The technician may use a torch, moisture meter, sounding tool and other suitable detection equipment to investigate suspicious areas.

They photograph relevant evidence, record readings and document any active termites, previous damage or conditions conducive to termite activity.

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Step 8: Explain the findings to the homeowner

Before leaving, the technician provides a summary of the inspection, explains any areas of concern and identifies any sections that could not be inspected.

If termite activity is suspected or confirmed, they explain the recommended next steps and whether further investigation or treatment is needed.

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Step 9: Complete and send the inspection report

The technician prepares a written timber pest inspection report, generally following Australian Standard AS 4349.3 for timber pest inspections.

The report records findings, evidence of damage, conducive conditions, inspection limitations and recommendations. It may also include photographs and advice about further inspections or treatment.

These steps reflect common Australian inspection practice; the precise sequence varies with the property, access and inspection scope.

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Equipment the technician usually carries

• Torch or headlamp

• Moisture meter

• Sounding tool and suitable inspection probe

• Ladder, where needed and safe to use

• Camera or phone for photographs

• Inspection checklist, reporting software or tablet

• Appropriate personal protective equipment