Termite inspections
explained
What a timber pest inspection really checks, how often you need one in the Hunter, and how to read the report — in plain English.
Quick answer: A termite (timber pest) inspection is a thorough check of your property for termites and other timber pests, carried out to Australian Standard AS 3660 and reported under AS 4349.3. In Newcastle's high-termite-risk climate, most homes should be inspected at least once a year. Kapow inspections start from $320 and include a detailed digital report.
What does a termite inspection actually cover?
A professional timber pest inspection is a methodical check of the whole property — not just a quick look for mud. A licensed inspector examines:
- The interior, including walls, skirtings, door frames, wet areas and ceilings
- The roof void, where accessible
- The subfloor and stumps, where accessible
- The exterior, fences, decking, retaining walls and outbuildings
- The garden and trees within roughly 30 metres, for conducive conditions and nests
Inspectors often use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find activity behind surfaces without cutting into walls.
How often should you inspect in Newcastle?
Newcastle and the Hunter are a high-risk termite area thanks to warm, humid summers and plenty of bushland. As a guide:
| Situation | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Standard home | At least every 12 months |
| High-risk (near bush, past activity, damp) | Every 6–12 months |
| Before buying a property | Always — a pre-purchase inspection |
Annual inspections are also a condition of most termite treatment warranties.
Warning signs of termites
- Mud tubes ("leads") on walls, piers or foundations
- Hollow-sounding or sagging timber, skirtings or door frames
- Paint that looks rippled, bubbled or cracked
- Tight-fitting doors and windows that suddenly stick
- Discarded wings near windows after a warm, humid evening
If you spot any of these, don't disturb them — that can make termites retreat and harder to find. Book an inspection instead.
What's in the report?
A good report is something you can act on. It should set out where the inspector looked (and any areas they couldn't access), any evidence of current or previous activity, conditions around the home that attract termites, and clear recommendations. Kapow reports are digital, plain-English and emailed to you.
Inspection vs treatment
An inspection tells you what's happening; it doesn't treat anything. If termites are found, the next step is a management plan — which can include baiting systems or a chemical barrier to protect the structure. We'll always explain your options honestly, with no pressure to over-treat.
How much does a termite inspection cost in Newcastle?
Kapow termite inspections start from $320 and include a detailed digital report. Pre-purchase timber pest inspections start from $440.
How often should I get a termite inspection?
In Newcastle's high-risk climate, at least once a year for a standard home, and every 6–12 months for higher-risk properties near bushland or with past activity.
How long does an inspection take?
Most residential inspections take around 1–2 hours depending on the size of the property and access to the roof void and subfloor.
Do I need an inspection before buying a house?
Yes — a pre-purchase timber pest inspection is strongly recommended before you buy. Termite damage is often invisible and can be very expensive to repair, so it's worth knowing before you commit.