Harry Pittock
When constructing a new building in Australia, one critical but often overlooked consideration is termite management. Certain areas are designated as termite-prone by local councils, meaning they face a heightened risk of termite activity. If you're building in one of these areas, your new structure will need a termite management system that complies with the Australian standard AS3660.1. You should be able to know if termite management is a requirement for your build by checking the working drawings. Modern termite management solutions are designed to integrate into the building's construction, so if termite protection is required, it's essential to contact a reputable pest control company early in the process to ensure that all necessary steps are followed and compliance is maintained.
In this blog post, we will dive into the essentials of termite management for new builds, particularly in termite-prone areas like the Mornington Peninsula, and explain how AS3660.1 ensures long-term protection against these destructive pests.
The AS3660.1 standard, updated in 2014, outlines the minium requirements for termite management systems in new building constructions. The main goal of this standard is to prevent concealed termite entry into buildings, as termites that enter in a concealed way can cause significant damage before their presence is detected.
Interestingly, the standard does not focus solely on stopping termites from entering the building, but rather on ensuring that any entry points are visually accessible. When termites enter in a visible way, their activity can be identified early, allowing property owners to take action before major damage occurs.
It's important to note that the AS3660.1 standard outlines the minium requirements for termite management systems. Some solutions are more effective than others at deterring termite entry into building, or eliminating invading colonies, so it's important to work with a pest control professional who can recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
Subterranean termites can enter a structure in two primary ways: concealed and non-concealed.
AS3660.1 emphasises the importance of designing buildings to prevent concealed termite entry, thereby giving property owners the best chance to spot termite activity before it becomes economically significant.
One of the most significant changes to AS3660.1 in the 2014 update is the requirement that termite management systems must either last for the service life of the building—typically around 50 years—or be easily replenishable. This update ensures that termite protection is not just a short-term fix but a long-term solution, giving homeowners peace of mind that their property will be protected for decades to come.
AS3660.1 also mandates termite inspections, with a minimum requirement of 12-monthly inspections. These inspections are critical to detect early signs of termite activity. When combined with a termite management system that prevents concealed entry, regular inspections can prevent termites from causing extensive damage. Furthermore, prior to commencing onsite works, an inspection should be done to ensure no active termites or termite nests are present.
In Australia, local councils have the authority to declare certain areas as termite-prone. In these areas, any new building must comply with AS3660.1, ensuring that adequate termite management systems are in place.
For example, the entire Mornington Peninsula Shire is classified as a termite-prone area. Properties from Mount Eliza to Portsea are at heightened risk of termite infestations, and new buildings must adhere to the standards outlined in AS3660.1.
If you're building in the Mornington Peninsula area, you need an experienced pest management company that understands the local risks and how to implement termite management systems that comply with AS3660.1. Penpest technicians have been working for many years with local builders and owner-builders, installing long-lasting, effective termite protection for new builds and can help safeguard your property against termites.
Our team provides quotes and expert advice to ensure that your termite management system is both effective and compliant with Australian standards.
Termite management is a critical part of any new build in Australia, especially in termite-prone areas like the Mornington Peninsula. By adhering to the AS3660.1 standard and working with experienced professionals like Penpest, you can ensure that your property is well protected from termite infestations for the long term. To read more about the specific solutions we use, check out our other blog post, Termite Management Solutions for New Builds.
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Harry Pittock
Harry Pittock
Harry Pittock
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