AS 4349.3 Timber Pest Inspections
Protect your home from the hidden damage timber pests can cause. This page breaks down the Australian Standard AS 4349.3-2010 for Timber Pest Inspections—what it is, why it matters, and how it protects buyers, sellers, and property owners across Australia.
What is AS 4349.3-2010?
AS 4349.3 is the official Australian Standard that outlines how timber pest inspections should be carried out in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
It ensures that inspections meet a uniform, minimum acceptable standard so that both clients and inspectors are on the same page.
It focuses on detecting:
Subterranean termites
Dampwood termites
Borers of seasoned timber
Wood decay fungi
Note: Drywood termites and mould are excluded.
What Does the Standard Cover?
✅ Scope of the Inspection
Visual, non-invasive checks of accessible areas
Inspection of all relevant timber structures (interior, exterior, subfloor, roof voids)
Signs of damage, pest activity, and conditions conducive to infestations
⚠️ Limitations
Areas not accessible at the time are excluded
Not a safety or compliance inspection
No guarantee pests won't appear after the inspection
📑 Inspection Agreement
Must be agreed to before the inspection
Outlines scope, purpose, and limitations
Inspector must be qualified and, where applicable, licensed
What Happens During the Inspection?
Inspectors will:
Check for signs of active or past timber pest activity
Use sounding tools, moisture meters, and visual observations
Identify conditions that attract pests (e.g., high moisture, wood-to-soil contact)
Note inaccessible areas and recommend further action if needed
Inspection DOES NOT include:
Moving furniture or stored goods
Cutting into structures
Underground inspections
What’s Included in the Report?
A compliant report under AS 4349.3 includes:
Identity of inspector and client
Site conditions and property details
Evidence of pests and damage
Conditions that support pest activity
Moisture issues (if detected)
Safety hazards (e.g., weakened stairs, collapsing decks)
Recommendations for future inspections and treatments
How Often Should You Have a Timber Pest Inspection?
According to the standard and industry best practice:
Annually for most homes
Every 6 months in high-risk areas (e.g. warm, humid climates or bushland suburbs)
Book a Timber Pest Inspection
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FAQ
Q1: Do I need a timber pest inspection for a brand-new home?
Yes. Timber pests don't wait for a home to age. Poor site drainage or construction materials can make new homes just as vulnerable.
Q2: What is the difference between a timber pest inspection and a building inspection?
A timber pest inspection focuses specifically on pests and moisture-related risks to timber. A building inspection checks the structural integrity and overall condition of the property.
Q3: Is thermal imaging or invasive testing included?
No, AS 4349.3 only requires non-invasive methods. If more advanced tools are needed, they must be agreed upon separately under AS 4349.0.
Q4: Does the report tell me how much it will cost to fix damage?
No. The report may recommend repairs, but you’ll need quotes from licensed contractors for cost estimates.
Q5: Can I use this report for legal disputes?
The report is a professional opinion, not a compliance certificate. It may support your case but does not replace expert legal or engineering documentation.