Termites work silently, but they rarely leave no trace. This guide covers the visual indicators most often recorded during timber pest inspections — what they look like, where to look, and what they do and do not tell you.
Seeing one of these signs does not confirm an active infestation, and seeing none does not confirm the absence of termites. Both conclusions require an inspection by someone who knows what they are looking at.
Mud tubes and shelter tubes
Pencil-width tunnels of soil and debris running up piers, walls or footings. Termites build them to keep their environment dark and moist while travelling between the soil and a food source.
Hollow-sounding timber
Skirtings, architraves, door frames and bearers that sound hollow when tapped, or that give slightly under pressure, may have been eaten from the inside out.
Discarded wings
After a swarm, termites shed their wings. Small piles of identical wings near windows, doors or lights are worth investigating.
Bubbling or blistered paint
Paint that bubbles or blisters without an obvious water source can indicate activity beneath the surface, particularly on timber frames and weatherboards.
Things that attract them
Timber in contact with soil, garden beds against the slab, blocked subfloor ventilation, leaking taps, poor drainage and stored timber or firewood against the building all increase risk.
What to do next
Do not disturb the area or spray it yourself — that can destroy the evidence an inspector needs. Photograph what you have found and arrange a timber pest inspection.
Key points
- Mud tubes, hollow timber and discarded wings are the classic indicators.
- Conducive conditions matter as much as visible activity.
- Do not spray or disturb evidence before an inspection.
- A visual inspection cannot rule out concealed activity.
This guide is general information for property buyers in NSW. It is not a building inspection, pest inspection, professional diagnosis or legal advice. A visual inspection cannot guarantee the absence of concealed defects.