Defect type
High · 2–4/5
Timber-to-Ground Contact Near Dwelling Perimeter
I observed timber in direct contact with soil close to the main dwelling - deck posts, pergola footings, retaining sleepers, or fence palings. In my experience this gives subterranean termites a concealed foraging pathway straight into structural framing, and I record it as a conducive condition (reference AS 3660.2). Risk is highest in Perth, Brisbane, and Sydney Hills District where soil termite pressure is elevated.
Causes
- Deck or pergola posts embedded in soil or concrete footings without stirrups
- Timber sleepers used as retaining walls or garden edging within 50 mm of the structure
- Fence posts abutting the house or carport structure without separation
Symptoms to look for
- Untreated or H3-grade timber observed buried in soil
- Softwood posts showing soft, damp, or damaged bases at ground line
- Mud leads rising from soil up timber posts toward the dwelling
Remedies
- Cut back embedded timbers and install galvanised stirrups with 75 mm clearance above ground
- Replace soil-contact timbers with H5-rated or non-timber alternatives where retention is required
- Maintain a minimum 50 mm separation between any landscape timber and the main structure
Critical
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