Melbourne’s mix of older timber homes, renovated terraces and damp winter conditions can hide termite and borer activity behind walls, floors and subfloors—an inspection finds issues before they become costly structural repairs.
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We inspect likely termite access points such as slab edges, expansion joints, weep holes, service penetrations and attached structures. This matters in Melbourne properties where renovations, paving and garden beds can bridge barriers and create hidden paths into the building.
Where safe access is available, we check roof spaces, subfloors and exposed structural timbers for activity and damage. These areas often reveal early warning signs like mudding, damaged timbers, frass, and changes to timber soundness that aren’t visible in lived-in rooms.
We focus on moisture-prone internal zones, looking for conditions that support termites and timber decay. Leaks, failed grout, poor ventilation and plumbing issues can create persistent dampness that accelerates timber deterioration and increases pest pressure.
We assess fences, decks, pergolas, steps, timber sleepers and stored timber near the building. In Melbourne, close-set boundaries and courtyard living can place timber elements right against the home, giving pests a sheltered staging area.
We differentiate between termite damage, borer activity and moisture-related timber decay by assessing the appearance, location and extent of damage. This helps you understand whether repairs are cosmetic, maintenance-related, or potentially structural.
Your report outlines observed activity, conducive conditions, access limitations and recommended steps such as improving drainage, removing bridging materials, targeted treatment advice or further invasive inspection where required.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Yes. Even in Melbourne’s inner areas, termites and timber pests can be present where there’s ground contact, gardens, podium landscaping, storage areas or moisture problems. Apartments can have risk in ground-floor or common areas, and older buildings may contain concealed timbers behind linings. A pest inspection checks accessible areas, identifies conducive conditions, and notes any limitations so you can plan the next steps.
In Melbourne, we often see warning signs linked to moisture and concealed timbers: soft or drummy skirting boards, bubbling paint, doors that suddenly stick, and fine powdery frass from borer activity. Externally, look for timber in contact with soil, damp subfloors, leaking downpipes, and garden beds built up against walls. An inspection confirms whether signs indicate active pests or older damage.
ACE inspects accessible internal and external areas for termite activity, timber pest damage and conditions that increase risk. That includes checks of wet areas, subfloors and roof voids where safe access allows, plus external entry points and timber structures like decks and fences. You’ll receive a detailed report with photos, a clear risk overview, and practical recommendations tailored to the property’s construction and site conditions.
They can be, particularly where there are subfloors, older wet-area waterproofing, past water ingress, or multiple renovations that conceal joins and timbers. Older homes may also have mixed materials and patched repairs that make pest pathways harder to spot without a methodical inspection. The key risk drivers are moisture and timber access, so the inspection focuses on those conditions as well as any visible damage patterns.
Frequency depends on the building type, construction, surrounding environment and any previous termite management. Many owners arrange regular inspections to catch early activity and monitor conditions like moisture, landscaping changes and building works that can increase risk. If you’re buying, it’s best to inspect before contracts go unconditional. If you’ve had a leak, renovation or new landscaping, an additional inspection can be sensible.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchChoose ACE Building and Pest Inspections for a thorough Melbourne pest and termite inspection that targets hidden timber pest activity, moisture-driven risk areas and property-specific vulnerabilities. Call 0413 163 187 to organise your inspection.