A Thorough Homeowner’s Resource for New South Wales

When you acquire a property in NSW, you essentially accept any existing termite protection strategies installed by the previous owner or builder. Regrettably, these strategies may vary significantly, spanning from highly effective to outdated or entirely non-existent.
The fact remains that most homeowners are uninformed about the current termite protection system in their home, its age, or whether it requires renewal.

This comprehensive resource aims to provide you with the necessary information to evaluate the termite protection measures your property possesses, familiarise you with applicable regulations in NSW, and highlight the warning signs to be vigilant about to prevent potentially expensive termite infestations in the future.

Recognise the Urgent Importance of 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 integrate a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during their building phase.

However, once you assume the role of homeowner, clear guidance on the specific system installed for your property’s protection is often lacking.

Let’s explore the intricate details of termite protection systems.

How to Uncover the Termite Protection System in Your Home

Here are the six most effective strategies for identifying the termite protection system embedded within your property.

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

As per the NSW Building Code and AS 3660.1, builders are legally obligated to provide the following:

• A certificate detailing the installed termite management system
• A durable notice placed within the home
• The installation date
• 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 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 absent, it does not necessarily mean that no system exists; it could simply have not been recorded or may have fallen off.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Surrounding Your Property

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

Indicators that you may have a reticulation system include:

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

If you observe these features, it is likely that you have:

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

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

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

If you acquired your home within the past few years:

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

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

4. Examine Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

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

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. Investigate the Existence of Physical Barriers Commonly Found in Newer Constructions

During the building process, contractors 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 protect the structure for the life of the building — however, regular termite inspections are still essential to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Seek Professional Advice from a Termite Specialist for a Comprehensive Compliance Check

If you are unable to 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 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 Install a Termite Risk Management System in All New Homes

(In accordance with the NCC & AS 3660.1)

2. A Durable Notice Must be Installed (Label within the meter box or cupboard)

3. Homeowners Hold Responsibility for System Maintenance

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

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

If you lack documentation or visible systems, it is wise 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 establish your risk level in under an hour.

When is it Necessary to Consider 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 locate any records
• You are preparing to sell or renovate
• You have observed mud tunnels, timber damage, or the presence of flying termites

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

Essential 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 discovering this information is straightforward when you know where to look.

Begin your search by thoroughly examining:

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

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

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

Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Termite Protection Systems

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

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 verify 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 ascertain 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 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 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 inspected 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.