The empty-house advantage
An empty house is the easiest house to pest-proof. Before furniture, boxes and belongings fill every room, you have clear access to every corner, gap and entry point. Spending a day pest-proofing before you move in can save you months of dealing with pests after you've settled — and it's far easier to seal gaps and treat empty rooms than furnished ones.
Before moving day
- 1Book a pre-purchase or pre-move-in pest and building inspection — know what you're dealing with before you commit
- 2Have the home professionally treated while it's empty — a general pest treatment is more effective without furniture blocking access
- 3Check the roof void for rodent activity, bird nesting or possums — deal with these before they become a problem
- 4Inspect the subfloor for moisture, drainage issues and stored timber left by the previous owner
- 5Seal all gaps around pipes, skirting boards and window frames with silicone sealant
- 6Check and repair flyscreens on all windows and doors
- 7Install door seals on external doors — including the garage internal door
- 8Clear gutters and downpipes of leaf litter
- 9Remove any timber, bricks or building materials left in the garden by the previous owner or builder
- 10Check weep holes are clear and subfloor vents are unobstructed
Termite considerations
If the property inspection reveals any termite activity or damage — even old, treated damage — book a full termite inspection before moving in. If the home has no current termite barrier, consider installing one while the property is empty and access is easy. This is particularly important for older homes in high-risk suburbs.
Never move into a home with active, untreated termite activity. Termites can cause catastrophic structural damage in a matter of months. Any termite activity must be professionally treated before you take possession.
After you move in
Once you've moved in, maintain the pest-proofing you've done. Keep the kitchen clean, store food in sealed containers, and don't let clutter build up in the garage or subfloor. Book an annual termite inspection and consider a pest management plan for ongoing protection.