A Detailed Homeowner’s Resource for New South Wales Residents

When you purchase a property in NSW, you inherit any existing termite protection strategies that were previously instituted by the former owner or builder. Unfortunately, these protective measures can vary significantly in effectiveness, with some being outdated or entirely absent.
The unfortunate truth is that many homeowners are often unaware of the current termite protection system in place, its age, or whether it requires renewal.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with the essential knowledge to evaluate the termite protection measures your home currently possesses, become acquainted with the relevant regulations in NSW, and identify the warning signs that could indicate the onset of 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 coastal suburbs, are classified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification obliges the NSW Building Code to mandate that all new homes incorporate a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during the construction phase.

However, once you assume the role of homeowner, there is often a lack of clear guidance regarding the specific system installed to protect your property from termite damage.

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

How to Uncover the Termite Protection System Installed in Your Home

Here are the six most efficient methods to ascertain the termite protection system integrated into your residence.

1. Locate the Mandatory Termite Certificate (A Requirement Under NSW Law)

In compliance 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 affixed within the home
• The installation date
• The installer’s contact details
• A 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)

If the label is absent, it does not necessarily mean that no system is in place; it may simply be that it was never recorded or has fallen off.

2. Identify the Reticulation System Refill Points Surrounding Your Property

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

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 extends slightly above ground level

If you notice these characteristics, you likely have:

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

It is vital to understand 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 purchased your property 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 may sometimes lack detailed information, so it is prudent to validate findings with a licensed termite expert.

4. Inspect the Slab Edges for Visibility and Accessibility

Homes constructed on concrete slabs should have visible slab edges unless an alternative approved system has been installed.

What to check 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 Existence of Physical Barriers Commonly Found in Contemporary Homes

During the construction process, builders may install various physical barriers against termites, including:

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

Indicators that suggest 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 safeguard the structure for the life of the building — however, routine termite inspections remain essential to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Seek Advice from a Termite Specialist for a Thorough Compliance Evaluation

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 recommend if your home requires:

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

Understand Your Obligations Under NSW Law 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 Hold Responsibility for Maintaining the System

Even when a barrier is in place, annual termite inspections are critical 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 wise to assume:

You may not be adequately protected.

Termite hotspots within Sydney encompass:

• The Hills District
• North Shore
• Northern Beaches
• Hawkesbury

A straightforward termite inspection can establish your risk level in less than an hour.

When Should You Contemplate Installing a New Termite Barrier?

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 observed mud tunnels, timber damage, or the emergence of flying termites

A premium chemical barrier utilising Termidor® or FipForce® can protect your home for up to eight years, establishing it as one of the most effective solutions available.

Crucial Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

Many homeowners are often astonished 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.

Start your search by thoroughly checking:

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

If uncertainty still lingers, schedule a termite inspection; this is a minor investment compared to the potential costs arising from termite damage.

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

Common Queries 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 (usually found inside the meter box), and documentation from the builder or pest control firm. These documents will outline the type of system installed, the installation date, and the maintenance schedule.

Can I ascertain 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 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 law require termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code mandates that all new homes include 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 neglected to maintain the termite protection system?

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

According to Australian Standards (AS 3660.2), annual termite inspections are mandatory, regardless of the system installed. Homes situated 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 presume 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.