Your Essential Homeowner’s Handbook for New South Wales

When you purchase a property in NSW, you essentially inherit the termite protection measures that were put in place by the former owner or builder. Regrettably, these measures can vary significantly in effectiveness, from highly robust to outdated or even completely non-existent.
The unfortunate truth is that most homeowners are often oblivious to the specific termite protection system currently in place, its age, or whether it requires renewal.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the necessary information to evaluate the termite protection your home possesses, help you understand the pertinent regulations in NSW, and highlight the warning signs to be vigilant for to prevent potentially expensive termite infestations in the future.

Recognise the Urgent Importance of Termite Protection in New South Wales

The regions surrounding Sydney, particularly the Hills District, North Shore, Western Sydney, and the coastal suburbs, are classified as high-risk termite zones.
This classification mandates the NSW Building Code to require all new constructions to include a Termite Risk Management (TRM) system during the building process.

However, once you become a homeowner, there is often a lack of guidance regarding the specific system that has been installed to safeguard your property.

Let’s explore the particulars of termite protection systems in greater detail.

How to Uncover the Termite Protection System Present in Your Home

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

1. Locate the Mandatory Termite Certificate (A Legal Requirement in NSW)

According to the NSW Building Code and AS 3660.1, builders are required to provide the following documentation:

• A certificate outlining the installed termite management system
• A durable notice affixed within the home
• The installation date of the system
• 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 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 absent, it does not necessarily mean that no system is in place; it may simply indicate that it was never recorded or has fallen off the surface.

2. Identify the Reticulation System Refill Points Around Your Property

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

Signs that you may have a reticulation system include:

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

If you observe these characteristics, you likely have:

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

It is crucial to note that termite reticulation systems necessitate 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 Information

If you acquired your home within the past few years:

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

However, pre-purchase reports can sometimes lack comprehensive details, so it is wise to confirm 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 to inspect 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 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 provided by the builder

These systems typically protect the structure for the life of the building — however, regular termite inspections remain crucial to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

6. Engage a Termite Specialist for a Thorough Compliance Assessment

If you are unable to 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 the Legal Requirements for Termite Protection in NSW

1. Builders Are Required to Install a Termite Risk Management System in All New Constructions

(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 Are Responsible for System Maintenance

Even with an installed barrier, 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 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 establish your risk level in less than an hour.

When Should You Consider the Installation of a New Termite Barrier?

Consider installing or updating 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 premium chemical barrier using Termidor® or FipForce® can protect your home for up to eight years, making it one of the most effective solutions available.

Important Reminder: Verify Your Termite Protection Today

Many homeowners are frequently astonished by how little they know concerning their termite protection system.
Fortunately, the process of uncovering this information is quite simple when you are aware of where to search.

Begin your investigation by thoroughly checking:

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

If you remain uncertain, schedule a termite inspection; this is a minor investment compared to the potential costs stemming from termite damage.

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 home remains secure.

Common Inquiries About 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 specifies the installed system, the installer’s information, and the maintenance dates. If no label is found, 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 generally 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.

Does NSW law mandate termite protection for all homes?

Yes. The NSW Building Code requires 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 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 inspected 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.