Termite Treatment for Ground-Floor Apartments

In a multi-storey building, the ground floor is the nearest to the soil, where subterranean termites live. That makes ground-floor apartments the most exposed, along with their wooden doors, wardrobes and flooring. Treatment is often more important here than on upper floors.

This guide explains the risks and what treatment involves.

The short answer

Ground-floor apartments are the most exposed to subterranean termites because termites travel from the soil through cracks, expansion joints, pipe openings and wall bases. Treatment generally involves inspecting wooden fittings and wall bases, drill-and-fill along walls and floors, treating the building perimeter where accessible, and treating affected wood. Because the building's foundation and surroundings are shared, coordinate with the society, particularly for perimeter and common-area treatment.

Why ground floors are at higher risk

• Direct contact with soil and the foundation.
• Cracks and joints at the floor and wall base.
• Pipe and conduit entries.
• Damp from soil and drainage.
• Wooden doors, frames, wardrobes and flooring close to the ground.
• Adjacent gardens and landscaping.

What to inspect

1. Wall bases and skirting for mud tubes.
2. Door and window frames at ground level.
3. Wardrobes and cupboards on external walls.
4. Wooden flooring and laminate.
5. Bathroom and kitchen wall bases, and pipe entries.
6. The external wall, plinth and nearby plants.

Treatment steps

• Inspection and identification.
• Drill-and-fill along walls and floors at suitable intervals.
• Treatment around pipe entries and cracks.
• Wood treatment for affected items.
• Perimeter treatment of the building's soil, coordinated with the society.
• Repair of damage and fixing moisture.

Society and building aspects

The perimeter, drainage and landscaping around the building usually belong to the society. If termites keep appearing, raise the issue with the association, since a perimeter treatment protects all ground-floor units. Ask what pre-construction treatment the builder carried out.

What residents can do

• Keep wooden items slightly away from walls and off damp floors.
• Fix leaks promptly.
• Avoid storing paper and cardboard on the floor.
• Inspect yearly, especially after monsoon.
• Report mud tubes and wings to the society.

When to call a professional

Call at the first sign, since termites that enter a ground-floor unit can spread to adjoining flats. A professional can check neighbouring units if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Who pays for perimeter treatment?

Often the society, since it is a common area. Check your bylaws and agreement.

Is the first floor safe?

Not completely, though the risk is usually lower.

How often should I inspect?

At least yearly.

Does tiled flooring prevent termites?

No. They use cracks and joints under and around tiles.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on termite control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full termite treatment guide for Bangalore.