A Thorough Homeowner’s Resource for New South Wales

When you acquire a property in NSW, you effectively assume responsibility for any termite protection measures that the prior owner or builder may have put in place. Regrettably, these measures can vary significantly, from highly effective to entirely ineffective or even nonexistent.
The unfortunate reality is that many homeowners lack awareness regarding the existing termite protection system, its condition, and whether it requires renewal.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the critical knowledge needed to evaluate the termite protection in your home, get acquainted with the pertinent regulations in NSW, and identify key warning signs to prevent potentially expensive termite infestations in the future.

Recognise the Urgent Need for Effective Termite Protection in NSW

Regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and coastal suburbs, are classified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification necessitates that the NSW Building Code mandates all new constructions to include a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during the building process.

However, once you become a homeowner, navigating the specifics of the installed protection system can be challenging, as clear guidance regarding the type of system in place is often lacking.

Let us explore the details surrounding termite protection systems more thoroughly.

How to Identify the Termite Protection System in Your Residence

The following are the six most effective strategies to determine the termite protection system embedded within your property.

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

In compliance with the NSW Building Code and AS 3660.1, builders are obligated to provide the following documentation:

• A certificate that outlines the installed termite management system
• A durable notice affixed within the home
• The date of installation
• The contact information 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 label 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 not present, it does not necessarily indicate that no system exists; it may simply mean that it was never recorded or has come unstuck.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Around Your Property

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

Indicators that a reticulation system may be present include:

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

If you observe 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 more economical chemicals).

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

If you purchased your home within the last few years:

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

However, pre-purchase reports can occasionally lack comprehensive details, so it is wise to verify findings with a licensed termite specialist.

4. Inspect Slab Edges for Visibility and Clearance

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

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 to function effectively.

5. Investigate the Existence of Physical Barriers Typically 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

Clues indicating 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 typically safeguard the structure for the life of the building — however, regular termite inspections remain essential to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Engage a Termite Specialist for a Detailed Compliance Assessment

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 be effective
• Scan for reticulation systems
• Inspect for exposure at slab edges
• Provide a comprehensive assessment of your termite risk

They can also advise whether your home requires:

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

Understand the Legal Obligations Regarding Termite Protection in NSW

1. It Is Mandatory for Builders to Install a Termite Risk Management System in All New Homes

(In line with the NCC & AS 3660.1)

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

3. Homeowners Are Responsible for Ongoing System Maintenance

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

What Should You Do 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 simple termite inspection can determine your risk level in under an hour.

When Should You Consider Installing a New Termite Barrier?

Evaluate the need to install or upgrade 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 discovered mud tunnels, timber damage, or the presence of flying termites

A premium chemical barrier employing Termidor® or FipForce® can protect your residence for up to eight years, making it one of the most effective solutions on the market.

Essential Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

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

Commence your investigation by meticulously examining:

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

If uncertainty persists, schedule a termite inspection; this is a minor investment compared to the significant costs that could arise from termite damage.

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

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Termite Protection Systems

How can I ascertain whether my home has a termite protection system installed?

Most houses 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 contact details, and the maintenance dates. If no label is present, search for reticulation refill points around the house, exposed slab edges, or physical barrier materials. A termite inspection can confirm the system if documentation is unavailable.

What documents 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 possible 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 are still effective and if the property requires new protection.

Where are termite reticulation refill points typically situated?

They are often found along garden edges, near paved areas, adjacent to 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 often should termite systems be examined in NSW?

According to Australian Standards (AS 3660.2), annual termite inspections are required, irrespective 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.