Your Essential Guide for Homeowners in New South Wales

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 Regrettably, these measures can vary significantly, from highly effective to outdated or even non-existent.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

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge necessary to evaluate the termite protection your residence possesses, familiarise you with pertinent regulations in NSW, and highlight the critical warning signs to be vigilant for, enabling you to prevent potentially expensive termite infestations in the future.

Recognise the Importance of Termite Protection in New South Wales

The regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and various coastal suburbs, are classified 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 construction.

Nevertheless, once you assume the responsibility of being a homeowner, there is often a lack of clear guidance regarding the specific system that has been installed to ensure the protection of your property.

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

Uncovering the Termite Protection System in Your Home

Here are the six most effective strategies to determine the termite protection system integrated into your property.

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

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

• A certificate outlining 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 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 mean that no system is in place; it may simply indicate that it was never recorded or has fallen off.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points on Your Property

A reticulation system employs underground pipes to effectively distribute termiticide around your property, ensuring comprehensive protection.

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 is slightly elevated above ground level

If you notice these features, you likely possess:

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

It is crucial to be aware 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 Information

If you acquired your home within the last few years:

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

However, pre-purchase reports can sometimes 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 utilised.

Key elements to examine include:

• 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 be effective.

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

During construction, builders may install various physical termite barriers, including:

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

Indicators suggesting 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 supplied by the builder

These systems are designed to protect the structure for the life of the building — however, routine termite inspections remain crucial to ensure their ongoing effectiveness.

6. Engage a Termite Specialist for a Thorough Compliance Assessment

If you cannot identify:

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

…your home may be lacking 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 slab edge exposure
• Provide a detailed assessment of your termite risk

They can also advise if your residence requires:

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

Understand the Legal Obligations for Termite Protection in New South Wales

1. Builders are Required to Install a Termite Risk Management System in All Newly Constructed Homes

(In compliance with the NCC & AS 3660.1)

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

3. Homeowners Have a Responsibility to Maintain the System

Even with a barrier installed, 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 Actions Should You Take if You Cannot Identify Your Termite Protection System?

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

When Should You Contemplate Installing a New Termite Barrier?

Consider installing or upgrading your 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 high-quality chemical barrier using Termidor® or FipForce® can protect your home for up to eight years, making it one of the most reliable solutions available.

Important 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 once you know where to look.

Begin your search by diligently checking:

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

If you still feel uncertain, schedule a termite inspection; this is a small investment compared to the potential costs associated with termite damage.

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

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 outlines the installed system, the installer’s information, and the maintenance dates. If no label is present, look 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 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 detail 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 evaluate whether old chemical treatments remain effective and if the property requires new protection.

Where are termite reticulation refill points generally found?

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

Does NSW legislation mandate termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code requires that all new homes incorporate a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during construction. This system must adhere to AS 3660.1 and include a durable notice that details the type of protection and necessary maintenance.

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

If maintenance has not been conducted, the system may no longer function effectively. A termite specialist will assess 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 inspected in NSW?

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

What actions should I take 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.