Woodworm FAQs

Look for small round holes about 1 to 2mm wide, fine gritty dust below them, soft or crumbling wood and small beetles near windows in spring and summer. Our signs of woodworm guide explains each clue, because no single sign proves it.

Fresh, pale-edged holes with clean dust suggest a live problem. Dark, dusty holes with no new dust usually mean an old one. Read active vs historic woodworm, then request a survey if you are unsure.

Left for years, active woodworm can weaken joists, rafters and floorboards. Most cases are slow and treatable, although neglect makes them worse. See is woodworm dangerous?

It can spread slowly through connected timber, since new beetles lay eggs in other wood. Read how quickly woodworm spreads.

No. Old holes from dead beetles need no treatment. A survey tells you which you have, because old and new holes look alike.

Check the survey report and ask for a specialist opinion if it flags woodworm. Read the buyer guide.

A specialist sprays or pastes the affected timber, and sometimes repairs weak wood. The method depends on the beetle and the timber, because each needs a different approach. See treatment methods.

Many jobs finish in a day, although larger lofts and repairs take longer. Ask the specialist how long to keep the room clear.

It depends on the method and whether damp is fixed, because damp invites beetle back. Read how long treatment lasts.

For small items, shop products can help, while floors, joists and roofs need a survey first. See DIY vs professional.

Follow the product label and the specialist's written advice, and keep children and pets out until the area is dry, since wet product is the risk. Permethrin is toxic to cats and fish.

Yes. A surveyor checks access, any bats and the condition of the timber first. See woodworm in roof timbers.

Yes. Boards may be lifted so the joists can be reached. Read woodworm in floorboards.

Often yes, with a shop product or a specialist, although antiques need extra care. See woodworm in furniture.

Damp must be fixed first because it feeds the beetle, and weak timber may need repair. See dry rot and damp and timber repair.

Published guides put a single room at about £300 to £500 and a whole house at £800 to £1,000 or more. See the cost guide.

Practice varies. Some firms survey for free and some charge £80 or more. Ask before you book.

No. Any guarantee comes from the firm that does the work. See what to ask about guarantees.

We take enquiries from England, Scotland and Wales. See areas we cover.

Often yes, with care. Listed buildings may need consent, and bats are legally protected, so roof work needs a roost check first.