Termites on the rise with temperature

Termite attacks on Australian homes are on the rise, according to building advisory service Archicentre.
The hot weather and continuing drought are blamed for the increasing intensity of the attacks, estimated to cost homeowners $910 million each year.
As they look for more moist parts of the house, termites relocate from roof voids and wall cavities to subfloors, eating flooring and skirting boards more aggressively.
Queensland state manager of Archicentre Ron Tanton says it's important for homeowners to undertake regular termite and building inspections.
He says increasingly inspectors are finding houses with water leaks under showers and cracking of pipes due to the drought or lack of maintenance.
"The extreme dryness in roof voids because of very hot days is a less attractive environment for termites who are seeking the more moist areas such as under the house," he says.
"Homeowners need to be aware that these water leaks and moisture build-up in subfloors and around the home form a magnet for timber pests such as termites and borers.
"This means damage to flooring materials and structural timbers like joists is more severe than normal.
"Increased moisture will accelerate the development of termite colonies but increased ground moisture may reduce the possible structural damage to houses caused by drought induced drying."
According to Archicentre's research, this year the average cost of pest treatment is about $2500 and the average cost of repairs to damage is about $4500.
The cycle time - from the initial attack, to awareness, treatment and eradication - is about five years.