A Thorough Guide for Homeowners in New South Wales

When acquiring a property in NSW, you essentially inherit any existing termite protection measures that the previous owner or builder has put in place. Regrettably, these measures can vary significantly, from being highly effective to outdated or entirely non-existent.
The unfortunate truth is that many homeowners are oblivious to the current status of the termite protection system installed, its age, or whether it requires renewal.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the essential knowledge needed to evaluate the termite protection your home possesses, familiarize yourself with relevant regulations in NSW, and highlight crucial warning signs to watch for, enabling you to prevent potentially expensive termite invasions in the future.

Recognize the Importance of Termite Protection in NSW

The regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and coastal suburbs, are identified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification leads to the NSW Building Code mandating that all new residential constructions incorporate a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during their building phase.

However, once you become a homeowner, there is often a lack of clear guidance regarding the specific termite protection system that has been installed to safeguard your property.

Let’s explore the intricacies of termite protection systems in greater detail.

How to Determine the Termite Protection System Installed in Your Home

The following are the six most effective strategies to uncover the termite protection system that is integrated into your property.

1. Locate the Mandatory Termite Certificate (Required by NSW Legislation)

According to the NSW Building Code and AS 3660.1, builders are required to provide the following documentation:

• A certificate that details the installed termite management system
• A durable notice affixed within the home
• The date of installation
• The contact details of the installer
• The recommended maintenance schedule

Where to find this certificate:

• Inside the electrical meter box
• Under the kitchen sink cupboard
• Within the laundry cupboard
• On the garage wall near the switchboard

This documentation may indicate the presence of:

• Physical barriers (Kordon, HomeGuard, TermSeal)
• Concrete slab edge exposure
• Granite/stone barriers
• Chemical soil treatments
• Termite reticulation systems (Termidor, TermX, Altis, Termguard)

If the sticker is missing, it does not necessarily mean that there is no system in place; it could simply be that it was never documented or has detached.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Surrounding Your Property

A reticulation system employs underground pipes to efficiently distribute termiticide around your home.

Indicators that you may have a reticulation system include:

• White, black, or green plastic caps situated along the perimeter of the property
• Access points located near garden edges, driveways, or patios
• A labelled refill port that slightly protrudes above ground level

If you notice these features, you likely have:

• Termidor® reticulation
• FipForce® system
• TermX
• Altis
• Termguard

It is crucial to remember that termite reticulation systems require refilling every three years (for premium termiticides) or every one to two years (for budget-friendly chemicals).

3. Examine Your Pre-Purchase Pest & Building Report for Termite Protection Insights

If you acquired your home within the last few years:

• The inspector should have documented the specifics of the termite protection system.
• Many reports may include photographs of barriers, slab edges, or reticulation lines.

However, pre-purchase reports can sometimes lack comprehensive information, so it is advisable to confirm findings with a licensed termite specialist.

4. Check Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

Homes constructed on concrete slabs should exhibit visible slab edges unless an alternative approved system has been employed.

What to inspect includes:

• A visible concrete edge between the ground and the brickwork
• No soil or garden obstructing the weepholes
• No decking installed flush against the wall

If slab edges are clearly exposed, this may serve as the termite protection — however, they must remain unobstructed to function effectively.

5. Explore the Presence of Physical Barriers Commonly Installed in Newer Homes

During the construction process, builders may incorporate various physical termite barriers such as:

• Kordon (orange/yellow sheet material)
• HomeGuard (blue plastic sheeting)
• TermSeal
• Stainless steel mesh
• Graded stone layers

Indicators that suggest the presence of a physical barrier include:

• A label within the meter box identifying the brand
• A visible sheet layer surrounding pipe penetrations in the slab
• Notes in the building documentation provided by the builder

These systems are typically intended to safeguard the structure for the life of the building — however, regular termite inspections are still crucial to ensure their continued effectiveness.

6. Consult with a Termite Specialist for a Thorough Compliance Check

<pIf you are unable to identify:

• A label
• A certificate
• A refill point
• Any documentation

…it is possible that your home lacks active termite protection.

A qualified termite technician can:

• Identify any physical barriers that are present
• Detect any antiquated chemical treatments that may still be effective
• Scan for reticulation systems
• Inspect for exposure at slab edges
• Provide a detailed assessment of your termite risk

They can also advise if your home necessitates:

• A new chemical barrier
• A reticulation system refill
• A baiting system
• A pre-sale termite certificate

Understand the Legal Requirements for Termite Protection in NSW

1. Builders are Required to Install a Termite Risk Management System in All New Constructions

(In accordance with the NCC & AS 3660.1)

2. A Durable Notice Must Be Installed (label within the meter box or cupboard)

3. Homeowners are Responsible for Maintaining the Termite Protection System

Even with a barrier in place, annual termite inspections are essential under Australian Standards (AS 3660.2). Comprehensive information is accessible regarding:
Termite Risk Management Systems for Residential Properties in NSW

What Steps Should You Take If You Cannot Identify Your Termite Protection System?

If you lack documentation or visible systems, it is prudent to assume:

You may not have adequate protection.

Termite-prone areas in Sydney include:

• The Hills District
• North Shore
• Northern Beaches
• Hawkesbury

A simple termite inspection can determine your risk level in less than an hour.

When Should You Think About Installing a New Termite Barrier?

Consider installing or updating termite protection if:

• Your reticulation system has not been serviced in over three years
• No certificate is available
• You cannot find any records
• You are planning to sell or renovate
• You have observed mud tunnels, timber damage, or the presence of flying termites

A premium chemical barrier utilizing Termidor® or FipForce® can effectively protect your home for up to eight years, making it one of the most reliable solutions available.

Critical Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

Many homeowners are often astonished by how little they know regarding their termite protection system.
Fortunately, the process of uncovering this information is straightforward if you know where to look.

Begin your search by thoroughly checking:

• Your meter box
• Under the kitchen sink
• Builder documentation
• Slab edges
• Reticulation caps

If uncertainty persists, schedule a termite inspection; this is a small investment compared to the potential costs incurred from termite damage.

If you need assistance in identifying your termite system,
So Pest Off can perform a detailed inspection, provide a thorough diagnosis, and create a comprehensive termite protection plan to ensure your home remains secure.

Common Questions About Termite Protection Systems

How can I verify if my home has a termite protection system installed?

Most homes in NSW should display a termite protection label found inside the electrical meter box, kitchen sink cupboard, or garage. This label typically specifies the type of system installed, the contact details of the installer, and the maintenance dates. If no label is present, check for reticulation refill points around the home, exposed slab edges, or physical barrier materials. A termite inspection can confirm the system if documentation is not available.

What documents should I have if a termite system was installed?

You should possess a termite management certificate, a durable notice (usually found inside the meter box), and documentation from the builder or pest control company. These documents should outline the type of system installed, the installation date, and the maintenance schedule.

Is it possible to determine the system I have without paperwork?

Yes. A qualified technician can identify physical barriers, chemical barriers, or reticulation systems during an inspection. They can also assess whether old chemical treatments are still effective and if the property needs new protection.

Where are termite reticulation refill points typically located?

They are often found along garden edges, near paved areas, alongside driveways, or around the external perimeter walls. Refill caps can be identified as white, black, or green plastic ports that are slightly elevated above the ground.

Does NSW law require termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code mandates that all new homes must have a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system installed during construction. This system must comply with AS 3660.1 and include a durable notice that outlines the type of protection and necessary maintenance.

What if the previous owner did not maintain the termite protection system?

If maintenance has not been performed, the system may no longer function effectively. A termite specialist will evaluate the condition of the system and may recommend a refill, installation of a new chemical barrier, or additional monitoring based on the assessed risk level.

How frequently should termite systems be examined in NSW?

According to Australian Standards (AS 3660.2), annual termite inspections are required, regardless of the system installed. Homes located in high-risk areas, such as the Hills District or Western Sydney, may benefit from inspections every six to twelve months.

What should I do if I cannot identify any termite system at all?

If you cannot find any barriers, documentation, or refill points, it is safest to assume that you have no active protection. A termite inspection will confirm your risk and assist in selecting the most suitable option, such as a chemical barrier, baiting system, or reticulation installation.