A standard termite inspection in Australia typically runs between $250 and $450, depending on the size of your property, its age, and how accessible the subfloor and roof space are. For most homes in the Newcastle and Hunter region, you’re looking at somewhere in the middle of that range, though older weatherboard homes or larger blocks with sheds and outbuildings can push the price up since there’s simply more ground to cover.

What Affects the Price

A few things move the number around. Property size is the obvious one, a three bedroom brick veneer is a different job to a five bedroom home with a granny flat and a detached garage. Access matters too. If the subfloor is tight or the roof cavity is hard to get into safely, that adds time. Location can play a small role as well, since some areas of the Hunter have higher termite activity than others and inspectors know to spend longer checking known risk zones like garden beds against the foundation, retaining walls, and timber in ground contact.

It’s also worth knowing that a termite inspection is different from a building inspection, though the two are often bundled together as a combined building and pest inspection when you’re buying a property. If you’re just after a routine annual check rather than a pre purchase report, the pest only inspection is the cheaper option.

What Actually Happens During the Inspection

A termite inspector checks the areas of your home most likely to show signs of activity or attract it in the first place. That includes the subfloor, roof cavity, timber framing, skirting boards, window and door frames, and the exterior perimeter, particularly garden beds, retaining walls, and any timber in direct contact with soil. The inspector is looking for live activity, past damage, and conditions that make termite entry more likely, like moisture buildup or gaps in existing barriers. Most inspections take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours on site, followed by a written report within a day or two.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Termites cause more damage to Australian homes each year than storms, floods and fire combined, according to CSIRO research, and most home insurance policies don’t cover termite damage since it’s classed as gradual deterioration rather than a sudden event. A $300 inspection is cheap insurance against a repair bill that can run into the tens of thousands if an infestation goes unnoticed for a year or two. If you’ve never had a termite inspection or it’s been more than 12 months, it’s worth getting on the books, particularly if your property backs onto bushland or has timber retaining walls, both of which are common entry points in this region.

For a full understanding of what an inspection actually covers, our guide on termite treatment costs is a useful next read if you’re weighing up prevention against treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a termite inspection?
Annually is the standard recommendation for most homes, and every 6 to 12 months if your property is in a higher risk area or backs onto bushland.

Does the inspection cost include treatment?
No. The inspection identifies whether termites are present or conditions exist that could lead to activity. If treatment is needed, that’s a separate cost from a licensed treatment provider, we’ll flag it clearly in your report so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.

Can I get a termite inspection done as part of buying a property?
Yes, this is usually bundled into a building and pest inspection before settlement, rather than booked as a standalone pest check.

What if the inspector finds termites?
You’ll get a clear written report outlining what was found and where, so you can make an informed decision about next steps, whether that’s treatment, further monitoring, or factoring it into a property negotiation.

Book a termite inspection with Kingfisher on 02 4910 4004 or email info@kingfisherinspect.com.au.