Building Connection Spring 2018

27 / 76

2 7
A keen sense of smell and uncanny agility make the dogs indespensible members of
the Flick Anticimex termite detection team.
don’t use it as a reward because it can
be a big distraction when we’re out on
inspections,” Gavin explains.
The dogs are particularly good
on problem jobs as they can detect
old damage and where termites are
accessing a building.
“For example, in a house with termites,
you can permanently solve the problem if
you know where they are getting in. The
dogs can find that quite easily whereas,
before, the only way to do that was to
remove the walls. If we have a specific
location that we can focus on it makes it
more cost effective,” says Dan.
Generally speaking, one dog is
used per inspection but in cases of
bigger buildings a second dog might
also be used.
Currently, there aren’t too many other
businesses, aside from Flick, using
detection dogs, Dan says. The work and
responsibility of training and keeping
the dogs makes it prohibitive for most.
“There is the odd solo operator
but none on as large a scale as us,”
he says, pointing out that the dogs
are a costly investment. They also
require continuous training, as well
as specialised vehicles that adhere to
RSPCA standards for transporting them.
“We feel that it does give us the edge
over competitors. It’s an additional tool
that helps us to provide a more extensive
service and lets people feel that they are
getting value for their money,” he says,
explaining that they are hoping to extend
the service, getting the dogs out to more
of their branches around the country.
All of their services, he adds, come
with a 12-month warranty but the
termite dogs have had an excellent
track record to date.
lightweight &
Fast to install,
with less STEEL,
labour & costs
takE STRUCTURAL WALLING TO the next level.
• Superior advantages over blockwork
and traditional concrete formwork
• Waterproof and durable protective barrier
• Continuous concrete pour height up to 4.5m
(275mm profile)
• Deep basement up to 60 storeys
• Accommodates curved walls
• A range of finishing applications available 275MM
| 1300 dincel
110MM 155MM 200MM