An increasing number of councils across Australia are seeing the value in designating residential zones as termite-prone areas in an effort to help local communities avoid costly repairs and horror surprises in the future.
Victoria is the only Australian state that has ‘undeclared’ termite municipalities, yet Jim’s Building Inspections are identifying and reporting on termite activity in homes in these areas multiple times each month. The problem with purchasing and residing in an undeclared zone means that, without professional guidance, residents simply aren’t aware of any infestation until it is too late.
One councillor in the city of Kingston in Melbourne is pushing for the area to be declared a termite zone to warn homeowners of the risk of white ants following several incidents where residents have been oblivious to pest activity in their homes, and the damage caused has been completely devastating.
This is the case in many other parts of Melbourne, and each year, like other Australian states, Victoria is declaring an increasing number of termite-prone zones. For homeowners, this means that if you are planning a new build or renovation works, builders must install a termite barrier system before a certificate of occupancy can be issued.
As part of their ‘New Home Inspection’ package, Jim’s Building Inspections will work with and give homeowners the tools to manage building works and ensure the quality installation of a termite barrier, giving you peace of mind and reassurance that your building works will go the distance.
Jim’s Building Inspections can review your home or renovation at the construction stage, at handover, or during the maintenance periods, and help you protect your investment by:
Ensuring you get what you have paid for, both in quality and in compliance
Giving you the expertise to understand the project in its entirety
Providing you with the tools and knowledge base with which to manage your relationship with the builder
More than 350 species of termites have been recorded in Australia. The best way to protect your home from termites and other pests is to educate yourself about your property.
Before you build. Before you buy. For more information on New Home Inspections, please call Jim’s Building Inspections now on 131 546 or click to get a quote!
Conclusion
Understanding termite zones is crucial for homeowners and builders in Australia. While Victoria remains the only state without designated termite-prone municipalities, many councils are proactively identifying and reporting these areas to prevent costly repairs and surprises. Implementing effective termite management systems during construction is essential to safeguard properties against potential infestations. Engaging professional building inspections can help detect early signs of termite activity and ensure compliance with local regulations, providing peace of mind for property owners.
FAQs
Termite zones refer to areas identified as being at risk of termite infestations. These zones help in implementing preventive measures during construction.
Yes, as of now, Victoria is the only Australian state without officially declared termite-prone municipalities.
To help local communities avoid costly repairs and surprises in the future by proactively managing termite risks.
A set of measures implemented during construction to prevent termite entry, such as physical barriers or chemical treatments.
Consult local council records or engage professional building inspection services to assess termite risks.
While not always mandatory, termite inspections are highly recommended to ensure early detection and prevention.
Mud tubes on walls, hollow-sounding timber, discarded wings, and visible damage to wood structures.
At least annually, or more frequently if your property is in a high-risk area.
Contact a licensed pest control professional immediately to assess the situation and recommend treatment options.
They help identify early signs of termite activity and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.