A pre-purchase termite inspection is one of the cheapest forms of due diligence available. Here's what it actually covers — and the questions to ask before you settle.
Why every Toowoomba purchase needs one
Toowoomba has one of the highest termite-pressure ratings in regional Queensland. The combination of mature gum trees, fertile black soil and a long building history means a meaningful percentage of homes have either current or historical termite activity.
A standard building inspection is not a timber-pest inspection. They're two separate Australian Standards (AS 4349.1 for building, AS 4349.3 / AS 3660.2 for timber pests) and most building inspectors specifically exclude termites from their reports.
What the report should cover
Every accessible area of the property: sub-floor, roof void, interior, exterior, garden, fences and outbuildings.
Evidence of current termite activity, past activity, structural damage, and conditions conducive to attack (drainage, ventilation, timber-to-soil contact, etc.).
Photographs of any concern areas with their location clearly marked.
A clear statement on whether a termite management system is in place, when it was installed, and whether it's still active.
What it doesn't cover (and why that matters)
Inaccessible areas — anything behind plasterboard, inside wall cavities or under floor coverings. A good report will list exactly what was inaccessible so you know what you're buying blind.
Future risk. The report tells you what's there today, not what will happen in 12 months. Termites can colonise a treated property in under a year if the barrier has been disturbed.
Borers, fungal decay and other timber pests are sometimes reported on a goodwill basis but aren't always included — confirm with your inspector.
Questions to ask before you book
Are you a licensed timber pest inspector under QBCC?
Does your report comply with AS 4349.3?
How long will the inspection take? (A genuine inspection of an average Toowoomba house takes 60–90 minutes minimum.)
Will you walk me through the report afterwards?
Do you carry full professional indemnity insurance for timber pest work?
What to do with the report at settlement
If the report finds active termites — don't panic, and don't walk away yet. Get a treatment quote and use it in your price negotiation. A full treatment plus barrier on an average Toowoomba home is typically $2,500–$4,500.
If the report finds historical damage or high-risk conditions, factor in the cost of a management system. A chemical barrier (Termidor) or baiting system (Sentricon) is a one-off cost of around $2,000–$3,500.
FAQs
How much does a pre-purchase termite inspection cost in Toowoomba?
Most independent timber-pest inspections in Toowoomba sit between $290 and $440 depending on the size of the property and whether it's combined with a building report.
How quickly can I get one done?
We can usually inspect within 48 hours and have the written report in your inbox within 24 hours of the inspection.