Frequently Asked Questions

A professional termite inspection in Brisbane typically costs from $300 for a standard residential property. At We Kill Termites, this includes a full inspection using Termatrac T3i radar detection, FLIR thermal imaging cameras, and moisture meters. You receive a detailed report with photos, moisture readings, and recommendations. Combo pricing is available when you book a termite inspection with general pest control on the same day.

A thorough termite inspection takes between 1 and 2 hours depending on the size and construction of your property. Our technicians inspect the full external perimeter, all internal rooms, subfloor areas (where accessible), roof void, garage, fencing, retaining walls, and any outbuildings. We use thermal imaging and Termatrac radar to scan behind walls and in concealed areas, which takes more time than a visual-only inspection but delivers far more reliable results.

Australian Standard AS 3660.2 recommends annual termite inspections for all properties in termite-prone areas. In South East Queensland — which includes Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Ipswich, and the Moreton Bay region — annual inspections are essential due to the high activity of Coptotermes acinaciformis and Schedorhinotermes intermedius, the two most destructive species in the region. Properties with a history of termite activity, older homes with limited chemical barriers, or homes near bushland may benefit from inspections every 6 months.

If active termites are detected, our technician will document the species, location, and extent of activity with photos and thermal images. We then present treatment options which may include direct colony treatment using Termidor or a similar transfer product, installation of a baiting system to eliminate the colony, or a full chemical barrier to protect the property long-term. Treatment can often begin the same day. We never pressure you into a decision — you'll receive a written report and quote so you can make an informed choice.

We use three key detection technologies: the Termatrac T3i, which uses radar to detect termite movement through walls and timber without needing to cut or drill; FLIR thermal imaging cameras, which detect heat signatures from termite activity behind walls, in ceilings, and under floors; and professional moisture meters, which identify elevated moisture levels that indicate termite activity or conditions conducive to infestation. This combination allows us to detect termites that a visual inspection alone would miss.

Yes, a pre-purchase timber pest inspection is strongly recommended before buying any property in South East Queensland. One in three Australian homes will be affected by termites during their lifetime, and damage is not covered by standard home insurance. A pre-purchase inspection to AS 4349.3 standard identifies any current or previous termite activity, structural damage, and conditions that make the property vulnerable. This information can influence your purchase decision and negotiation. We offer same-day and next-day availability for pre-purchase inspections to meet contract deadlines.

A building inspection assesses the structural condition of a property — foundations, walls, roof, plumbing, and general defects. A termite inspection (also called a timber pest inspection) specifically focuses on detecting termite activity, termite damage, and conditions that attract termites. They require different expertise and equipment. A building inspector checks for cracks and structural issues; a termite inspector uses thermal imaging and radar to find live termites hidden inside walls and timbers. Both are recommended before purchasing a property.

A chemical termite barrier is a continuous treated zone around the perimeter of your home that prevents termites from entering the building. It is installed by trenching along the foundation, flooding the trench with termiticide (we use Termidor HE and Termidor SC), and backfilling with treated soil. Where concrete paths, driveways, or pavers adjoin the building, small holes (6–12mm) are drilled at regular intervals and chemical is injected under pressure beneath the surface. The holes are then sealed and patched. A properly installed barrier to AS 3660.2 standard provides up to 8 years of protection.

The cost of a chemical termite barrier in Brisbane depends on the size and construction of your home, the amount of concrete that needs drilling, and the linear metres of perimeter to be treated. For a standard 3-bedroom home, expect to pay between $2,500 and $4,500. Larger properties, homes with extensive concrete or paving, or properties requiring additional treatment zones will be at the higher end. We provide a fixed-price quote after inspecting your property so there are no surprises.

Termidor is the most widely used and trusted termiticide in Australia. We use two formulations: Termidor HE (High Efficiency) for soil injection through concrete, and Termidor SC for open trench applications. The active ingredient, fipronil, works through a transfer effect — termites that contact treated soil carry the product back to the colony, spreading it to other termites through grooming and feeding. This colony elimination effect is what sets Termidor apart from repellent barriers. It is virtually odourless, safe for use around homes, and approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).

A termite baiting system consists of in-ground stations installed at regular intervals around your property. Each station contains a cellulose material that attracts foraging termites. During quarterly monitoring visits, our technician checks each station for termite activity. When termites are detected, a bait matrix containing an insect growth regulator is added. Termites feed on the bait and share it with the colony, which gradually eliminates the entire colony including the queen. Baiting systems are ideal for properties where chemical barriers cannot be installed or as a complementary system alongside an existing barrier.

A chemical termite barrier installed with Termidor typically provides protection for up to 8 years. However, the barrier can be compromised if soil is disturbed through landscaping, plumbing work, or renovations. Annual termite inspections are still recommended even with a barrier in place, as inspections check both the condition of the barrier and any new termite activity. At the end of the barrier's life, it can be replenished with a new application.

No. In Queensland, the application of termiticides is restricted to licensed Pest Management Technicians. Chemical termite barriers must be installed to AS 3660.2 standard, and a Certificate of Compliance must be issued on completion. DIY termite treatments are not only illegal but also ineffective — improper application can leave gaps in the barrier that termites exploit. Professional installation ensures complete coverage, correct chemical concentration, and proper documentation for your records and any future property sale.

General pest control in Brisbane starts from $179 for a standard residential treatment covering cockroaches, ants, spiders, and silverfish. This includes both internal and external treatment with a warranty period. German cockroach treatments, rodent control, and flea or bed bug treatments are priced separately based on the severity of the infestation. We provide an upfront quote before starting any work.

For most Brisbane homes, we recommend annual general pest control to keep cockroaches, ants, spiders, and silverfish under control. Properties in areas with higher pest pressure — near bushland, waterways, or older suburbs — may benefit from treatments every 6 months. If you're experiencing a specific issue like German cockroaches or rodents, more frequent treatment may be required until the problem is resolved. Regular pest control also helps maintain your home's defences between termite inspections.

Yes. Modern pest control products are designed to be low-toxicity for humans and pets while remaining highly effective against target pests. We use professional-grade products that are approved by the APVMA. During treatment, we recommend keeping pets and children away from treated surfaces until they are dry, which typically takes 1–2 hours. Once dry, treated surfaces are safe for normal contact. Our technicians will walk you through any specific precautions for your property before starting work.

We treat all common household pests in Brisbane and South East Queensland including cockroaches (including German cockroaches), ants (including coastal brown ants and green ants), spiders (including redbacks and huntsmen), rodents (rats and mice), silverfish, fleas, ticks, wasps, bed bugs, and mosquitoes. We also provide targeted treatments for specific infestations. If you have a pest problem not listed here, give us a call and we'll advise whether we can help.

For standard general pest control, you do not need to leave the house. We treat external areas first and then internal areas. We recommend staying out of treated rooms until surfaces are dry, which usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. For specific treatments like flea bombs or German cockroach gel baiting in commercial kitchens, your technician will advise if any temporary vacating is required.

We Kill Termites is based in North Lakes, Queensland, at 7/21-23 Flinders Parade, North Lakes QLD 4509. We service the entire South East Queensland region including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Ipswich, Redlands, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast corridor. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm, and you can reach us on 1300 095 418.

Yes. We Kill Termites holds a current Queensland Pest Management Licence and all of our technicians are individually licensed Pest Management Technicians. We carry full public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance. Our termite barrier installations are compliant with AS 3660.2 and our inspections comply with AS 4349.3. We issue Certificates of Compliance for all barrier work.

Three things set us apart. First, we use the best detection equipment in the industry — every technician carries a Termatrac T3i radar unit and FLIR thermal camera, not just a torch and a screwdriver. Second, we invest in our people through a structured 6-stage training program so every technician delivers the same high standard. Third, we believe in transparency — we show you exactly what we find, explain your options clearly, and never use scare tactics to upsell services you don't need. Our 4.9-star rating from over 500 Google reviews reflects this approach.

We service all of South East Queensland including Brisbane (Northside and Southside), North Lakes, Moreton Bay, Caboolture, Redcliffe, Logan, Springwood, Beenleigh, Ipswich, Springfield, Redlands, Cleveland, Gold Coast (Coomera to Burleigh), and the Sunshine Coast corridor. If you're unsure whether we cover your area, give us a call on 1300 095 418.

Yes, we provide free, no-obligation quotes for all termite treatments, chemical barriers, baiting systems, and general pest control. For termite barrier quotes, we visit your property to assess the perimeter, construction type, and any access challenges before providing a fixed price. For general pest control, we can often quote over the phone based on the size and type of property.

Common signs of termite activity include hollow-sounding timber when tapped, mud tubes (also called shelter tubes) running along walls, foundations, or fencing, bubbling or blistering paint, stiff or warped doors and windows, visible damage to skirting boards or architraves, piles of frass (termite droppings) near timber, and discarded wings near windows or doors. However, the most destructive species in Brisbane — Coptotermes acinaciformis — can cause significant structural damage before any visible signs appear, which is why thermal imaging and radar detection are so important during inspections.

Brisbane and South East Queensland have ideal conditions for termites: warm temperatures year-round, high humidity, and abundant timber-framed housing. The region is home to several destructive species including Coptotermes acinaciformis, Schedorhinotermes intermedius, and Nasutitermes walkeri. The CSIRO estimates that 1 in 3 Australian homes will experience termite activity during their lifetime, and the risk is highest in Queensland due to the climate. This is why annual inspections and proactive protection through chemical barriers or baiting systems are so important.

No. Standard home and contents insurance policies in Australia do not cover termite damage. Termite damage is considered a maintenance issue, meaning the homeowner is responsible for prevention and repair costs. This makes annual termite inspections and proactive protection (chemical barriers or baiting systems) a worthwhile investment. The cost of an annual inspection is minimal compared to the tens of thousands of dollars that termite damage repairs can cost.

You can reduce termite risk by fixing any leaking taps, pipes, or air conditioning units that create moisture near the building; ensuring good drainage away from the foundation; removing timber stored against the house including firewood, old sleepers, and garden stakes; keeping garden beds and mulch at least 75mm below the weep holes or slab edge; trimming vegetation away from external walls to allow inspection access; and maintaining proper ventilation in subfloor areas. However, these measures reduce risk — they do not replace professional inspections and chemical or physical barriers.

Coptotermes acinaciformis is the most destructive termite species in Brisbane and throughout South East Queensland. They form large colonies of over one million individuals and can cause severe structural damage within months if left untreated. They are subterranean, meaning they nest underground and travel through mud tubes to reach timber in buildings. They are particularly attracted to areas with moisture and can enter through gaps as small as 1mm. This species accounts for the majority of termite damage claims in Queensland.