What is a Pest Inspection?
Definition
Pest Inspection
A pest inspection (also called a timber pest inspection) is a professional examination of a property for evidence of timber-destroying pests, including termites, borers, and wood-decay fungi. In Australia, it is conducted by a licensed pest inspector and is strongly recommended before purchasing any property, particularly in high-risk termite zones.
Termites cause more damage to Australian homes than fire, floods, and storms combined. The CSIRO estimates that one in three Australian homes will be affected by termites at some point. A pest inspection identifies active infestations, evidence of past damage, and conditions that make the property vulnerable to future attack — giving you the information you need to make an informed purchase decision.
What Does a Pest Inspector Look For?
A standard timber pest inspection conducted to Australian Standard AS 4349.3 covers three main categories:
- Termites (white ants): The most destructive timber pest in Australia. Inspectors look for live termites, mud shelter tubes, damaged or hollow-sounding timber, and termite workings in walls, floors, roof spaces, and sub-floor areas.
- Borers: Wood-boring beetles that leave small round exit holes in timber. While less destructive than termites, severe borer infestations can weaken structural timbers over time.
- Wood-decay fungi (rot): Fungal decay caused by prolonged moisture exposure. Inspectors check for soft, discoloured, or crumbling timber, particularly in wet areas, sub-floors, and around bathrooms and laundries.
Active Damage vs Old Damage
Active vs Old Pest Damage
| Criteria | Active Infestation | Old (Historical) Damage |
|---|---|---|
| What it means | Pests are currently present and causing damage | Damage occurred in the past but pests are no longer active |
| Urgency | Requires immediate professional treatment | No treatment needed, but assess structural impact |
| Cost implications | Treatment ($2,000-$5,000+) plus repair costs | Repair costs only, if structural integrity is affected |
| Impact on purchase | Negotiate price reduction or request treatment before settlement | Factor repair costs into your offer |
| Red flag level | High — may indicate ongoing risk | Moderate — check that the cause has been addressed |
How Much Does a Pest Inspection Cost?
A standalone pest inspection in Australia typically costs between $200 and $400, depending on the property size and location. However, most buyers opt for a combined building and pest inspection, which costs $400 to $700 and is more cost-effective than booking each inspection separately.
Given that termite damage repairs can easily cost $10,000 to $100,000+ depending on severity, a $300 pest inspection is a small price to pay for peace of mind. Our building and pest inspection guide covers what to expect on inspection day and how to read the report.
High-Risk Areas in Australia
Termite risk varies significantly across Australia. The following regions are considered high to very high risk:
- Northern Australia: Queensland, Northern Territory, and northern Western Australia have the highest termite activity due to warm, humid conditions year-round.
- Coastal NSW: The Sydney basin, Central Coast, Hunter Valley, and North Coast are high-risk zones with multiple aggressive termite species.
- South-east Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast experience heavy termite pressure.
- Regional areas: Properties near bushland, with mature trees close to the house, or with poor drainage are at elevated risk regardless of location.
Even in lower-risk areas like Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia, pest inspections are still strongly recommended. Termites are found in every Australian state and territory.
Combined Building and Pest Inspection
Most buyers arrange a combined building and pest inspection as a single appointment. The building inspector assesses the structure while the pest inspector (or the same inspector if dual-licensed) checks for timber pests. You receive two separate reports covering both areas. This is the most efficient and cost-effective approach, typically saving $100 to $200 compared to booking each inspection individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
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