Termites are a destructive timber pest, but they are part of our natural environment and play an important role in nature. They eat fallen trees and branches, aerate soil and are a food source for native animals.

Termites will eat any material containing cellulose, including paper, wood, grass, bark, cardboard and much more. They will forage up to 80 metres from their nest.

Termite barriers can be used in new houses and extensions to help prevent termite attack. The different barriers include:

• chemical barriers, which are applied beneath and around a building
• physical barriers, such as concrete slabs, termite shields, stainless steel mesh and graded stone
• termite-resistant construction materials (but remember that these materials will not stop termites from getting in).

When dealing with termites, prevention is the key.

• Licensed pest controllers can do routine inspections to find termites and termite damage.
• When installing new fences, use termite-resistant and preservative-treated timber.
• Minimise cracks in concrete slabs by consolidating the soil before laying the slab.
• Fix leaking pipes and poor ventilation in sub-floors, which create ideal conditions for termites.
• Always inspect second-hand timber and furniture before bringing it into your house.
• Avoid placing gardens against walls.
• Avoid stacking firewood against your house or garage.

For more information about treating termites at your property, please contact a private pest controller.

To report termite infestations on neighbouring properties or on public land, please call us on 07 3412 3412 email us at council@logan.qld.gov.au.