Rats and mice in 46 per cent of homes

Evidence of past or present activity by rats and mice is found in 46 per cent of Australian homes, an Archicentre study has found.

The survey of 500 homes found rat and mice activity particularly common, while termites were also present around many of the properties.

"Termites, the most destructive pests which can cause severe damage to the home and cost thousands of dollars to repair, were found in 12 per cent of the 500 homes inspected,” says Ron Tanton, Queensland state manager of Archicentre.

“Borers were found in 52 per cent of homes and 69 per cent of the homes inspected had wood rot, which results from poor ventilation and damp.”

In addition, possum activity was found in 13 per cent of homes and silverfish in 5 per cent.

Tanton says each of these pests can trigger a range of other issues, leading to an unhealthy environment, costly repair bills and a devaluation of the property.

Termites alone are estimated to cost Australian homeowners $910 million annually, he says.

“Unfortunately many homeowners invite termites into their homes by covering the edge of their slabs with garden beds or paving and stacking firewood against the wall or under homes, leading to costly damage.”