Termite inspection Brisbane – What a proper inspection includes
If you’re paying for a termite inspection, it should be done properly. Here’s exactly what a thorough inspection looks like – and the tools we use to find hidden activity.
Brisbane is termite heaven!
Brisbane’s warm, humid climate means termites can stay active year‑round. The tricky part is that most termite damage happens out of sight – inside timber, behind plaster, under floors, or around slab penetrations.
A proper termite inspection isn’t a quick walk‑through. It’s a systematic assessment of the whole property – inside, outside, roof void (where accessible), subfloor (where accessible), and the key “risk zones” where termites commonly enter.
Below is the step‑by‑step process our technicians follow so you know exactly what you’re getting.
What a proper termite inspection includes (Step‑by‑Step)
- Pre‑inspection chat (5 minutes)
We ask what you’ve noticed (soft timber, mudding, winged alates, leaks), your property type (slab, high‑set, townhouse) and any past termite history or treatments.
- External perimeter assessment
We start outside because that’s where risk factors show up—drainage, ground levels, garden beds, fences, retaining walls, timber landscaping and any concealed access points.
- Subfloor inspection (where accessible)
For high‑set homes, we check stumps/bearers/joists, piers, ant caps, ventilation, moisture and any timber-to-ground contact.
- Internal inspection
We methodically check skirting boards, door frames, windows, timber floors, wet areas, and any areas with paint bubbling, swelling or unexplained cracking.
Roof void/ceiling space (where accessible)
We look for moisture issues, timber roof framing risks, and signs of termite travel along timbers.
- Targeted “high‑risk zones” check
We focus extra attention on slab penetrations, expansion joints, weep holes, garages, decks, pergolas, and any areas with previous building movement or moisture.
- Detection devices
We use detection tools to confirm suspicious areas and reduce guesswork (see next section).
- Findings, photos and an action plan – digital report emailed on the day
You receive a clear summary, photos, risk rating, and practical next steps – whether that’s monitoring, rectification, or treatment.
Watch how a proper termite inspection should actually be done.
This video shows how a professional termite inspection should be carried out in Brisbane homes – using thermal cameras, moisture meters and methodical inspection techniques to identify concealed termite activity.
The termite detection devices we use on every job
Professional termite inspections rely on multiple detection tools – not guesswork or a single device.
Thermal camera
Our inspectors are highly trained in the correct use and interpretation of thermal imaging during termite inspections.
Thermal cameras detect subtle variations in surface temperature that may indicate concealed termite activity within walls, ceilings, and fixed building elements.
As termites move and feed, they can influence heat and moisture patterns in timber and surrounding materials.
Used by an experienced inspector, thermal imaging allows large areas to be scanned efficiently and non-invasively, highlighting anomalies that aren’t visible during a standard visual inspection.
Moisture meter
A moisture meter is a mandatory termite detection device used in every termite inspection, and our inspectors are highly trained in its correct use and interpretation.
Termites require moisture to survive and often increase moisture levels in the timber they are feeding on. Using a moisture meter allows our inspectors to identify abnormally high moisture readings within walls, floors, and structural timbers that may indicate concealed termite activity.
Readings are never assessed in isolation. Our inspectors understand how to differentiate between moisture caused by termites and moisture from other sources such as plumbing, ventilation, or environmental conditions. Where elevated readings are detected, additional detection devices are used to investigate further.
T3i motion detector
The T3i motion detector is used to help identify termite movement behind walls and in concealed areas. Our inspectors are highly trained in its correct use and interpretation during termite inspections.
By detecting subtle movement caused by termite activity within timber and building materials, the device allows concealed areas to be assessed without invasive damage.
Readings are always verified using additional detection tools to ensure accurate results.
Borescope
A borescope is used to visually confirm termite activity in concealed areas where direct access isn’t possible. Our inspectors are highly trained in the correct use of borescopes during termite inspections.
By inserting a small camera into wall cavities, timber sections, or other concealed spaces, the borescope allows our inspectors to see what’s happening inside the structure with minimal disturbance. This helps confirm termite presence, identify damage, and verify findings from other detection devices.
Borescopes are used selectively and in conjunction with other inspection tools to ensure accurate identification and reliable results.
Think you have termites? Read more about our 3 recommended steps
!. Inspection 2. Initial treatment 3. Long-term protection
Check some more useful links to help you identify if you have termites
Same day response – Monday to Friday
We’ll get out to you today
We’ll help identify what you’re seeing
Not sure if it’s termites or ants? Our team can help identify what you’re seeing before it becomes a bigger problem.
Suburbs Conquer Termite services
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Brisbane CBD & Inner Suburbs
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North Brisbane
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South Brisbane – Logan
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Bayside & Moreton Bay region
- Ipswich & Springfield area
What shortcuts look like (and what you shouldn’t accept)
Without naming competitors, here are common shortcuts that reduce detection accuracy:
- A ‘15‑minute inspection’ with no systematic process
- No roof void or subfloor check (when safe and accessible)
- No detection tools – just a quick visual look
- No discussion of moisture, drainage, or termite risk factors
- A vague ‘all good’ outcome with no photos or written report
- Pushing a treatment without explaining the evidence, options, or why
What you should receive after your termite inspection
- A written report with photos and clear findings
- A practical risk summary (what matters most and why)
- Identification of conducive conditions (moisture, drainage, timber-to-ground contact)
- Recommended next steps: monitoring, rectification, or treatment options
- If live activity is found: immediate control advice and a plan for full protection
How often should Brisbane homes be inspected?
Most Brisbane homes benefit from annual termite inspections because risk factors change – weather, drainage, landscaping, renovations and even minor leaks. If you’ve had termites before or live near bushland/creeks, more frequent checks may be recommended.
If you have a chemical treatment in place, then you should definitely do an annual termite inspection to maintain your treatment warranty.
Q&A about termite inspections in Brisbane
How long does a termite inspection take?
A proper inspection usually takes longer than a quick walk-through because we inspect inside, outside, and accessible roof/subfloor areas, and use detection tools where needed. The exact time depends on the home size and access.
- Conquer Termites allocated 3 hours+ for a house with live termites
- Annual termite inspection: 2 to 3 hours
Can you find termites without damaging walls?
Often yes. Tools like thermal imaging, moisture meters and the Termatrac help us verify suspicious zones with minimal disruption. If we need confirmation, we’ll explain options first.
Conquer Termite inspectors are all equipped with borescopes to look inside wall cavities.
What if you find live termites?
Don’t spray or disturb them. We’ll advise on immediate steps to reduce spread and will recommend the right treatment pathway based on the location, access and risk.
Is a termite inspection the same as a treatment?
No. An inspection identifies activity and risk. Treatment is recommended if no protection is currently in place.
Do you inspect fences, decks and outbuildings?
Yes, where accessible, we assess attached structures and key external timber features because they can be entry points or early warning zones.