Reticulation systems and old termite damage in Hills district homes
What inactive damage means for a buyer, and why an unconnected reticulation system is a concern.
In short: Old termite damage tells you termites have been there. An unconnected reticulation system tells you the protection may not be working.
Inactive does not mean irrelevant
On a building and pest inspection nearby, minor termite damage was found that was inactive at the time. It shows the house has been reached before.
What a reticulation system is
Pipes laid around the perimeter and under paths let a pest manager recharge a chemical barrier. They only work if they are connected and accessible.
A system not connected
On the same property the reticulation system was not connected at the external slab. That leaves a section of the perimeter unprotected.
Moisture invites termites
Mouldy sealant, unsealed penetrations and leaking fittings raise moisture near the structure. Termites follow moisture.
Next steps
A licensed pest manager should assess treatment and recharge the system. Regular inspections then keep watch.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Rouse Hill. Licensed building practitioners, NSW Fair Trading licence 366177C.
