A big gum tree blown onto a fence and house during a storm had been infested with white-ants, according to residents.
The residents say the nest of wood-eating insects had been reported to Port Pirie Regional Council earlier, but the council has no record of such a complaint.
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The falling tree damaged the property in a storm on the night of August 2.
A neighbour said residents had discussed the tree in the days before the incident.
Branches had already fallen and the residents talked about the need for the tree to be removed.
Council chief executive officer Peter Ackland said communication had been received twice about the state of the tree.
He said that in 2011 there was a request to cut a branch because it was considered to be dangerous. This work was done by council.
In 2019, a big branch had fallen onto the footpath on Christmas Day and there was discussion about disposing of the tree. The branch was picked up the council.
Mr Ackland there was no reference to termites in the records before him.
He said the council planned to contact the owner of the house who had been unavailable.
The resident of the damaged house has been told that the State Emergency Service would cut the tree from the property.
On August 2, amid warnings of bad weather, the service told townspeople that sandbags were available at its depot in Hughes Street.
No sand or help was available from the depot, but the move was a precaution against flooding.
Greg Mayfield
As editor, I am responsible for 11 mastheads around the state. I have more than 45 years' experience in newspapers and digital platforms. I am lucky to have an enthusiastic and dedicated team of journalists working with me.
As editor, I am responsible for 11 mastheads around the state. I have more than 45 years' experience in newspapers and digital platforms. I am lucky to have an enthusiastic and dedicated team of journalists working with me.
