White ant season on the Gold Coast is longer than most homeowners realise. While activity peaks in the warmer months, the subtropical climate means termite colonies remain active and dangerous throughout the year.
Termite activity on the Gold Coast follows a seasonal pattern.
Swarming is the most visible sign that termite season is underway. In spring and early summer (particularly on warm, humid evenings following rainfall) reproductive termites leave their colony to mate and establish new colonies. You may notice clouds of winged insects around lights at dusk, piles of discarded wings on windowsills, or dead alates on the floor. A swarm near your home strongly suggests an established colony is nearby. Below is a picture of dead alates. We'll discuss more signs of white ant activity below.
Hollow sounding decking or pergola timber.
Look for mudding (or mud tubes) on bricks, posts, fences etc.
White ant activity in mulched garden beds or timber sleepers. Look for timbers that have white ant activity and even termite nests in some cases.
Timber floors that sound hollow or feel spongy.
Boards that look blistered or feel soft.
Small piles of frass or collection of wings.
The Gold Coast’s average winter temperatures (15–21°C) are warm enough for Coptotermes acinaciformis — the most destructive termite species in Australia — to remain active and feed year-round. This sets the Gold Coast apart from cooler parts of Australia where colonies largely go dormant in winter. According to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission, termite infestations are one of the leading causes of structural damage claims in Queensland.
The short answer is: now! You need a white an inspection. They should be performed regularly as part of your prevention plan. Regular inspections will catch any incursions of white ants before they do too much damage.
Richard often visits homes where it has been too long since the last inspection. When the termites get in and are left unchecked they can really feast on your home. Sadly, at least one of these images below are of a property recently inspected by a different inspection company. You have to make sure you get an experienced and conscientious inspector. Like Richard.
If you notice warning signs, or if it has been more than 12 months since your last inspection, then book one now.
The best time to get a white ant inspection is before peak season starts. Book now and protect your Gold Coast home before the risk peaks.
