Two important termite warning signs are mud-like workings around cracks, foundations or timber, and timber that sounds hollow, feels soft or shows visible damage. Neither sign should be broken open or sprayed. Record the location and arrange an inspection because visible evidence may show only part of the activity.
For a property assessment, see termite inspection in Rockhampton.
Sign 1: mud-like workings
Termites may build protected services or packed workings across surfaces and through gaps. These can appear around slab edges, subfloors, posts, walls or stored timber. Do not scrape them away to see what is inside.
Sign 2: changed or damaged timber
Timber may sound hollow when tapped, feel thin or soft, show blistering, or break more easily than expected. Doors, trims or floors can also change when moisture or concealed damage is present. These signs are not a structural diagnosis and may have other causes, but they justify closer assessment.
Other clues include discarded wings, flying termite alates, live insects, tight doors and unexplained surface changes. The absence of visible signs does not confirm the property is clear.
Related reading
Use the full signs of termites guide and what to do if you find live termites.