A Thorough Homeowner’s Manual for New South Wales

When acquiring a property in NSW, you essentially inherit any termite protection strategies that the previous owner or builder put in place. Sadly, the effectiveness of these strategies can greatly vary, with some being outdated or entirely missing.
The reality is that many homeowners are unaware of the existing termite protection system, its condition, or whether it requires renewal.

This comprehensive guide is intended to empower you with the necessary knowledge to evaluate the existing termite protection your home possesses, familiarize yourself with the pertinent regulations in NSW, and identify the warning signs that may indicate the onset of potentially expensive termite infestations down the line.

Recognize the Urgent Need for Termite Protection in NSW

Regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and coastal suburbs, fall under the classification of high-risk termite zones.
This classification necessitates that the NSW Building Code mandates the installation of a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during the construction of new homes.

However, once you become a homeowner, a clear guide outlining the specific system that has been installed for your property’s protection is often lacking.

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

How to Identify the Termite Protection System Present in Your Home

The subsequent steps outline the six most effective strategies to help you recognize the termite protection system integrated into your residence.

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

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

• A certificate outlining the details of the installed termite management system
• A durable notice affixed within the home
• The date of installation
• 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 adjacent to the switchboard

This label may indicate the presence of:

• Physical barriers (Kordon, HomeGuard, TermSeal)
• Exposure at concrete slab edges
• Granite or stone barriers
• Chemical soil treatments
• Termite reticulation systems (Termidor, TermX, Altis, Termguard)

Should the sticker be absent, it does not necessarily mean that no system exists; it may have simply not been documented or could have fallen off.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Located Around Your Property

A reticulation system effectively utilizes underground pipes to distribute termiticides throughout your property.

Indicators that you may have a reticulation system include:

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

If you notice these elements, you likely have:

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

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

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

If you acquired your home in recent years:

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

Nevertheless, pre-purchase reports can sometimes lack comprehensive details, so it is prudent to verify findings with a licensed termite specialist.

4. Inspect Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

Homes constructed on concrete slabs should exhibit visible slab edges, unless an alternative approved system has been utilized.

What you should assess 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 function as the termite protection — however, they must remain unobstructed to operate effectively.

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

During the building phase, various physical termite barriers may be installed by builders, 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 located 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 entire life of the building — however, regular termite inspections are still crucial to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Engage a Termite Specialist for a Comprehensive Compliance Assessment

If you are unable to identify:

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

…your home may be lacking active termite protection.

A qualified termite technician can:

• Identify any existing physical barriers
• Detect any previous chemical treatments that may still be effective
• Scan for reticulation systems
• Inspect for exposure at slab edges
• Provide a comprehensive evaluation 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 Obligations 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 located in the meter box or cupboard)

3. Homeowners Hold Responsibility for System Maintenance

Even with a barrier established, 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 termite protection systems, it is prudent to assume:

You may not have adequate protection.

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 to Protect Your Home?

Think about installing or updating your 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 noticed mud tunnels, timber damage, or the presence of flying termites

A premium chemical barrier utilizing 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 astonished by how little they understand about their termite protection system.
Fortunately, the process of uncovering this information is straightforward once you know where to search.

Begin your investigation by thoroughly checking:

• 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 potential financial burden resulting from termite damage.

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

Common Questions About Termite Protection Systems Answered

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 schedule. 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 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 located?

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 require termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code mandates that all new homes must 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 been neglected, 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 risk level.

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.