What is a Thermal Camera Pest Inspection?

Thermal Camera Pest Inspections use  an advanced, non-invasive technology which uses a special lens to focus on infrared light emitted by all of the objects in view. The focused light is scanned by a phased array of infrared-detector elements. The detector elements create a very detailed temperature pattern called a thermogram. That allows the inspector to show clients things about their homes or buildings that can’t be revealed using conventional inspection methods.

Recently we were called to a property after the new owners had moved in. The home had been constructed on a concrete slab footing and had many concealed areas and restrictions limiting a standard pest inspection.

A thermal image camera inspection was made on the property and live termites were discovered. Photo 2 shows an open wardrobe area in a bedroom when viewed normally. Photo 1 shows the same area when viewed with a thermal camera. The bright blue area indicated a higher temperature on the wall surface and areas below. After seeing these images, we removed insulation material in the roof void above and found termite activity and damage to the wall top plate.

If a thermal imaging camera inspection had been carried out on this property originally, it is likely an anomaly would have been found. Insulation would then have been removed to check further for suspected termite entry or a recommendation for an invasive inspection through wall linings would have been made.