Found live termites in loose timbers?

Termites outside = a target on your home

In South East Queensland, it’s common to find termites in almost every garden – often just metres from the house. Termites are constantly foraging for food, and unfortunately, your home can easily become their next target.

Watch: The secret world of subterranean termites

As you’ll see in the video, subterranean termites don’t travel in the open. They build an extensive network of concealed mud tunnels underground, allowing them to stay protected from predators, sunlight, and dry conditions.

Because their movement is hidden, a termite colony can reach your home’s foundations long before there are any visible warning signs.

Think you’ve found live termites? What should you do?

Have you uncovered loose timber or debris that’s been sitting on the ground for a while and noticed what looks like termites? Not sure what to do next?

Why early action matters

Loose timber on the ground acts like a welcome mat for termites, encouraging them to move closer to your home and establish access points.

Simple steps can help reduce risk – but professional advice is critical.

• Clear the way: Remove scrap timber, cardboard, and logs that are in contact with soil

• Stay vigilant: If you find termites in your garden, do not disturb them

• Get expert eyes: Arrange a professional termite inspection to ensure your perimeter is secure

Finding termites outside doesn’t mean your home is infested — but it does mean the risk is real.

First option

Don’t disturb them anymore. Termites, by instinct, will immediately flee back to their nest if they feel threatened; it’s a survival mechanism. You might think they’ve gone, but they will be back!

Spot treatment option

Contact Conquer Termites to arrange for one of our experienced technicians to apply a non-repellent transfer treatment (Termidor®) directly to active termite areas.

This treatment is ideal for live termites in loose timbers or soil. Because Termidor® is non-repellent, termites move through the treated area unaware and transfer the product back to the colony. This allows the treatment to eliminate termites at the source – not just the ones you can see.

Bait stations – a way to reduce termites foraging in your garden

Along with removing any timber or other conducive materials, a baiting program is an effective way to reduce termite numbers.

While you can’t stop termites from foraging in from neighbouring properties, a properly installed baiting system can significantly reduce activity — and in many cases eliminate the nest entirely.

Panic option (don’t do this)

Follow the advice above. Don’t collect the timber and throw it in the wheelie bin thinking the problem is solved.

Avoid rushing to buy off-the-shelf or DIY products. These are often unsafe, ineffective, and can make professional treatment more difficult by scattering the termites.