Does standard home insurance cover termite damage?

In Australia, standard home insurance policies typically exclude damage caused by termites. Because remediation for structural termite damage can be extremely costly, regular professional inspections are a critical preventative measure for property owners to mitigate the risk of damage that is generally not covered by insurance.

Related Questions

Australian standards and local professionals recommend a professional termite inspection at least every 12 months for properties in the Top End. Due to the high, year-round termite pressure in the Northern Territory, an annual inspection is the maximum recommended duration between professional assessments to ensure early detection of activity.
No, a standard professional termite inspection is non-invasive. Northern Rock Pest Control technicians conduct inspections primarily through visual checks and the use of specialized, non-damaging tools such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras. We do not drill, cut, or dismantle building materials without obtaining the property owner’s written consent first.
If termites are identified, the technician provides a comprehensive written report detailing the findings, the specific areas of the property at risk, and a recommended treatment plan. Property owners are then provided with all necessary information to make an informed decision on how to proceed; there is no pressure-selling of treatment services.
A termite inspection for a standard residential property typically takes approximately 60 minutes. Inspection times may be longer for larger properties, homes with sub-floor access areas, or properties that contain significant amounts of hidden timber or complex structures.
Northern Rock Pest Control generally provides the completed, detailed termite inspection report within 24 to 48 hours following the onsite assessment.