A Thorough Homeowner’s Guide Tailored for New South Wales

When you purchase a property in NSW, you essentially inherit any existing termite protection measures that were put in place by the former owner or builder. Unfortunately, these measures can vary widely in effectiveness, from robust to outdated or entirely non-existent.
The truth is that many homeowners are oblivious to the current termite protection system in their home, its age, or whether it requires updating.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge necessary to evaluate the termite protection your residence possesses, get acquainted with the governing regulations in NSW, and recognise the warning signs that could indicate a potential termite infestation, thereby helping you avoid costly repairs down the line.

Recognise the Urgent Importance of Termite Protection in NSW

The regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and coastal suburbs, are classified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification compels the NSW Building Code to mandate the implementation of a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during the construction of all new homes.

However, once you transition into the role of homeowner, there is often a lack of clear guidance regarding the specific system that has been installed to protect your property from termites.

Let us explore the details surrounding the various termite protection systems.

How Can You Uncover the Termite Protection System in Your Home?

The following are the six most effective strategies to discover the termite protection system integrated into your property.

1. Locate the Mandatory Termite Certificate (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 outlining 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)
• Concrete slab edge exposure
• Granite or 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 come loose.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Around Your Property

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

Indicators that you might have a reticulation system include:

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

If you observe these features, you likely have:

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

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

3. Examine 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 include photographs of barriers, slab edges, or reticulation lines.

However, pre-purchase reports can sometimes lack comprehensive information, so it is advisable to confirm findings with a licensed termite specialist.

4. Inspect Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

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

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 visible, this may serve as the termite protection — however, they must remain unobstructed to function effectively.

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

During the construction phase, builders may install a variety of 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 generally protect the structure for the life of the building — however, regular termite inspections remain essential to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Consult a Termite Specialist for a Thorough Compliance Check

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 if your home requires:

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

Gain a Comprehensive Understanding of NSW Legal Obligations Regarding Termite Protection

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 Maintaining the System

Even with a barrier in place, annual termite inspections are crucial 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 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 help determine your risk level in under an hour.

When Should You Consider Installing a New Termite Barrier or Updating Existing Protection?

Consider installing or upgrading 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 noticed mud tunnels, timber damage, or the presence of flying termites

A premium chemical barrier featuring Termidor® or FipForce® can provide robust protection for your home 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 taken aback by how little they know about their termite protection system.
Fortunately, the process of uncovering this information is straightforward when you know where to look.

Begin your search by thoroughly 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 minor investment compared to the potential costs arising from termite damage.

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

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Termite Protection Systems

How can I confirm whether 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 located?

They are often found 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 law mandate termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code requires that all new homes incorporate 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 frequently 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 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.