A Detailed Homeowner’s Manual for New South Wales

When you acquire a residence in NSW, you essentially inherit any existing termite protection measures established by the former owner or builder. Sadly, these measures can vary greatly in effectiveness, from being highly reliable to outdated or even completely non-existent.
The stark reality is that most homeowners are often uninformed about 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 to evaluate the termite protection your home possesses, familiarise you with the pertinent regulations in NSW, and highlight the warning signs you should be vigilant for in order to prevent potentially expensive termite infestations in the future.

Recognising the 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 categorisation leads to the NSW Building Code mandating that all new homes incorporate a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during their construction phase.

However, once you assume the role of homeowner, there is typically no clear guide available that informs you about the specific system that has been installed to safeguard your property.

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

Discovering the Termite Protection System in Your Home

The following are the six most effective methods to uncover the termite protection system integrated into 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 required to provide the following:

• A certificate detailing the installed termite management system
• A durable notice placed within the home
• The installation date
• The installer’s contact information
• 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 missing, it does not necessarily imply that no system is in place; it could simply mean that it was never documented or has fallen off.

2. Identify Reticulation System Refill Points Around Your Property

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

Signs that you may have a reticulation system include:

• White, black, or green plastic caps placed along the perimeter of the home
• Access points situated 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 note that termite reticulation systems require refilling 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 Termite Protection Details

If you acquired your home within the last 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 sometimes lack detailed information, so it is advisable to confirm findings with a licensed termite specialist for accuracy.

4. Inspect Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

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

What you should examine 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 Presence of Physical Barriers Commonly Found in Newer Homes

During the construction phase, builders 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 and safety.

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

Understand NSW Legal Requirements for Termite Protection

1. Builders Must Install a Termite Risk Management System in All New Homes

(In accordance with the NCC & AS 3660.1)

2. A Durable Notice is Required to 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 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 and provide peace of mind.

When Should You 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 noticed 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 on the market.

Essential Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

Many homeowners are frequently astonished by how little they understand regarding their termite protection system.
Fortunately, the process of uncovering this information is rather 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 remain uncertain, schedule a termite inspection; this is a minor investment compared to the potential costs resulting from termite damage and can save you significant expenses in the long run.

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 residence remains secure.

Frequently Asked Questions About 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, ensuring proper adherence to regulations.

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 assess whether old chemical treatments are still effective and if the property requires new protection, thus ensuring your home’s safety.

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, serving as indicators of your home’s termite protection.

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, ensuring residents are informed and safeguarded against termite threats.

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 in your area.

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 to ensure ongoing protection and early detection of possible infestations.

What steps 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, providing you with peace of mind.