Five Tips to Reduce the Risk of Termite Infestation in South-East QueenslanD

Termites are a serious concern for homeowners across South-East Queensland. Our warm, humid climate makes it easy for them to thrive, and once they’re established, they can cause costly structural damage before being detected.

Here are five practical ways to help protect your property and reduce the risk of termite infestation.

1. Keep Timber, Stored Items and Wood Debris Away from the Home

Termites are drawn to timber in any form — old logs, stumps, firewood, or garden sleepers. These provide both food and shelter.
Remove decaying or untreated timber from garden beds and yards, and store firewood well off the ground and away from walls. If you use timber for landscaping or fences, choose treated materials and inspect them regularly for signs of weathering.

Keeping wood sources away from your home limits termite access points and makes your property less inviting.

2. Manage Moisture and Fix Leaks Promptly

Termites need moisture to survive. Persistent dampness around your home — from leaking taps, ac units, poor drainage, or faulty gutters — creates ideal conditions for them to thrive.

Check plumbing, downpipes, and garden irrigation for leaks, and ensure stormwater flows away from the building. Regularly clean gutters and keep weep holes unobstructed. Proper moisture control not only protects against termites but also helps prevent mould and structural deterioration.

3. Maintain Garden Beds and Mulch Carefully

Mulch can hold moisture and warmth — two things termites love. Avoid piling mulch directly against external walls or slab edges, as this creates a hidden path for them to travel undetected.

Keep a small gap between garden beds and the home’s perimeter so that foundation edges remain visible. Consider using stone or non conducive mulch instead of wood-based products in areas close to the building. These alternatives provide the same visual appeal without attracting pests.

4. Inspect Fences, Decks, and External Timber Structures

Outdoor timber elements such as decks, pergolas, and fences are often the first places termites appear. Over time, exposure to rain and humidity causes timber to soften and become more susceptible to attack.

Regularly check for soft spots, blistering, or discolouration, and reseal exposed timber surfaces when required. Keep garden soil and mulch away from structural posts or retaining walls. Maintaining these external features helps protect both your outdoor spaces and the main structure of your home.

5. Book Regular Timber Pest Inspections

Even well-maintained homes can develop conditions that attract termites. Regular professional inspections help identify early warning signs and provide peace of mind.

A licensed inspector can assess risk areas, monitor moisture levels, and look for subtle evidence of pest activity that may not be visible day to day. Routine checks ensure your property remains protected and that any emerging issues are caught before major damage occurs.

Conclusion

Preventing termite problems is about simple, consistent maintenance. By managing wood, moisture, and access points — and scheduling regular inspections — you can help safeguard your property year-round.

At CYTE, we specialise in thorough, professional building and pest inspections across the Gold Coast and South-East Queensland, helping homeowners stay one step ahead of termites.