A Detailed Homeowner’s Guide for New South Wales

When acquiring a property in NSW, you essentially assume any existing termite protection strategies established by the former owner or builder. Regrettably, these strategies may vary from highly effective to completely outdated, or in some instances, entirely lacking.
The unfortunate truth is that many homeowners are oblivious to the current termite protection system in place, its age, or the necessity for renewal.

This comprehensive guide is designed to furnish you with the expertise to evaluate the termite protection your home possesses, familiarise you with the pertinent regulations in NSW, and illuminate the warning signs to watch for to avert potentially expensive termite infestations in the future.

Recognise the Urgent Necessity for Termite Protection in NSW

The regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and coastal suburbs, are classified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification compels the NSW Building Code to mandate all new homes to incorporate a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during their construction phase.

However, once you become the homeowner, there is a notable absence of straightforward guidance that informs you regarding the specific system that has been established to safeguard your property.

Let us explore in further detail the specifics of termite protection systems.

Uncovering the Termite Protection System in Your Home

The following are the six most effective methods to discern the termite protection system integrated within your property.

1. Locate the Mandatory Termite Certificate (A Requirement Under NSW Law)

In accordance with the NSW Building Code and AS 3660.1, builders are obliged to supply the following:

• A certificate detailing the installed termite management system
• A durable notice affixed within the home
• The installation date
• The installer’s contact information
• 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 label may indicate the existence 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 absent, it does not automatically suggest that no system is in place; it may simply be that it was never documented or has become detached.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Surrounding Your Property

A reticulation system employs underground pipes to effectively distribute termiticide throughout your property.

Indicators that you may have a reticulation system include:

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

If you observe these characteristics, you likely have:

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

It is vital to acknowledge that termite reticulation systems necessitate refilling every three years (for premium termiticides) or every one to two years (for more economical chemicals).

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

If you acquired your home in the last few years:

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

However, pre-purchase reports can sometimes lack detailed information, hence it is prudent to verify findings with a licensed termite specialist.

4. Inspect Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

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

What to scrutinise 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 for effective functioning.

5. Investigate the Existence of Physical Barriers Often Found in Newer Homes

During the construction phase, builders may install various physical termite barriers such as:

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

Indicators of the presence of a physical barrier may 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 generally protect the structure for the lifespan of the building — however, regular termite inspections remain vital to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Consult a Termite Expert for a Thorough Compliance Review

If you cannot identify:

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

…your home may lack active termite protection.

A qualified termite technician can:

• Identify any physical barriers present
• Detect any old chemical treatments that may still hold effectiveness
• Scan for reticulation systems
• Inspect for exposure at slab edges
• Provide a comprehensive assessment of your termite risk

They can also advise if your home requires:

• 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 Implement a Termite Risk Management System in All New Homes

(In compliance with the NCC & AS 3660.1)

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

3. Homeowners Hold Responsibility for Maintaining the System

Even with a barrier in place, annual termite inspections are imperative under Australian Standards (AS 3660.2). Extensive information is available regarding:
Termite Risk Management Systems for Homes in NSW

What Actions to Take If You Cannot Identify Your Termite Protection System?

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

You may not be adequately protected.

Termite hotspots in Sydney include:

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

A straightforward termite inspection can ascertain your risk level in under an hour.

When is it Appropriate to Install a New Termite Barrier?

Consider installing or upgrading 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 preparing to sell or renovate
• You have detected mud tunnels, timber damage, or the presence of flying termites

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

Critical Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

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

Begin your search by meticulously examining:

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

If you still find yourself uncertain, schedule a termite inspection; this is a minor investment compared to the potential costs stemming from termite damage.

If you require assistance in identifying your termite system,
So Pest Off can conduct a thorough inspection, furnish a detailed diagnosis, and formulate a comprehensive termite protection plan to ensure your home remains safe.

Common Questions Regarding 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 located inside the electrical meter box, kitchen sink cupboard, or garage. This label typically specifies the installed system, the installer’s information, and the maintenance dates. If no label is present, search for reticulation refill points around the home, exposed slab edges, or physical barrier materials. A termite inspection can confirm the system if documentation is unavailable.

What documentation should accompany my home if a termite system was installed?

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

Is it feasible to determine what 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 remain effective and if the property requires new protection.

Where are termite reticulation refill points typically located?

They are often situated 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 mandate termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code requires that all new homes 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 level of risk involved.

How frequently should termite systems be examined in NSW?

According to Australian Standards (AS 3660.2), annual termite inspections are mandatory, regardless of the system installed. Homes situated 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.