A Thorough Guide for Homeowners in New South Wales

When acquiring a property in NSW, you automatically take on any existing termite protection measures that were put in place by the previous owner or builder. Regrettably, these measures can vary significantly in their effectiveness, ranging from highly efficient to outdated or entirely non-existent.
The unfortunate reality is that many homeowners are unaware of the current state of the termite protection system in their property, including its age and whether it requires updating.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the necessary understanding to evaluate the termite protection in your home, familiarise you with the pertinent regulations in NSW, and highlight critical warning signs that could indicate the onset of costly termite infestations in the future.

Recognise the Importance of Termite Protection in New South Wales

Regions surrounding Sydney, notably the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and coastal suburbs, are identified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification necessitates that the NSW Building Code mandates all new homes to include a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during their construction phase.

However, once you become a homeowner, there is often no clear guidance available regarding the specific system that has been implemented to safeguard your property.

Let’s explore the intricate details of termite protection systems to better understand their significance.

Discover How to Find the Termite Protection System in Your Home

The following are the six most effective approaches to ascertain the termite protection system present within your property.

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

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

• A certificate that details the installed termite management system
• A durable notice that must be displayed within the home
• The installation date of the system
• 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 or stone barriers
• Chemical soil treatments
• Termite reticulation systems (Termidor, TermX, Altis, Termguard)

Should the sticker be missing, it does not necessarily mean that no system exists; it may simply be that it was not documented or has fallen off over time.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Surrounding Your Property

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

Signs indicating the presence of a reticulation system may include:

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

If you observe these characteristics, it is highly probable that you have:

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

It is vital 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 Information

If you acquired your home within the past 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 occasionally lack comprehensive information, so it is prudent to verify findings with a licensed termite specialist.

4. Inspect Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

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

What to look for 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 at all times.

5. Investigate the Existence of Physical Barriers Commonly Found in Modern Homes

During the construction process, builders may implement various physical termite barriers, which can include:

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

Indicators suggesting the presence of a physical barrier may encompass:

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

These systems generally protect the structure for the life of the building — nevertheless, regular termite inspections remain crucial to ensure ongoing effectiveness and safety.

6. Consult a Termite Specialist for a Thorough Compliance Assessment

If 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 may be present
• Detect any old chemical treatments that could still be effective
• Scan for reticulation systems
• Inspect for exposure at slab edges
• Provide a detailed assessment of your termite risk

They can also recommend whether 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 in the meter box or cupboard)

3. Homeowners are Responsible for System Maintenance

Even if a barrier is present, annual termite inspections are essential 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 prudent to consider:

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 less than an hour.

When Should You Consider Installing a New Termite Barrier?

Evaluate the need for 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 using Termidor® or FipForce® can protect your home for up to eight years, establishing it as one of the most effective solutions available.

Important Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

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

Start your search by thoroughly inspecting:

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

If you still find yourself uncertain, schedule a termite inspection; this relatively small investment can save you significantly compared to potential costs arising from termite damage.

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

Common Questions Regarding Termite Protection Systems

How can I confirm 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 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 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, 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 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.