They are close relatives of cockroaches and date back 200 million years. They are prolific breeders, well organised societies and hard to kill. Their nests can be as far as 50 metres away from a house, in a tree or underground. Termites attack both soft and hard woods. Home owners do not usually become aware of an attack until it's too late, like when wooden posts or walls suddenly collapse - even roofs.
Termites cause billions of dollars of property damage annually.
When they pay you a visit they are your worst nightmare. Prevention Methods Chemical and physical barriers are put around the property. Chemical barriers are generally installed beneath and around the building. The use of termite resistant materials in home construction is also helpful, such as treated timber. The most common cause of termite infestations is when the perimeter barrier has been breached.