
For Sydney homeowners, a constant battle rages beneath the surface – the fight against silent invaders: termites. These cellulose-loving insects can cause significant structural damage, turning your dream home into a costly renovation project. Here at Local Property Inspections, a trusted pre-purchase inspection company in Sydney, we understand the importance of termite prevention. This article explores two crucial elements in your termite defence strategy: exposed concrete slabs and ant caps.
Why Expose Your Concrete Slab? A Visual Advantage
A common feature in Australian homes, particularly those built to Australian Standards (AS 2870), is an exposed concrete slab around the perimeter of the building. While some homeowners might be tempted to cover this slab for aesthetic reasons, leaving a section exposed plays a vital role in termite detection and management. Here’s why:
- Early Detection is Key: Termites, particularly subterranean species common in Sydney, typically enter homes from the soil. An exposed concrete slab creates a clear visual barrier between the ground and the wooden structures of your house. This allows for regular inspections to identify potential termite activity before significant damage occurs.
- Signs to Watch For: During a termite inspection, professionals will meticulously examine the exposed concrete slab for signs of termite activity. These can include:
- Mud tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel between the soil and your home. These tubes, often pencil-thin and brown in colour, are readily visible on an exposed slab.
- Shelter tubes: Termites may also construct shelter tubes from a mixture of soil, saliva, and wood debris within cracks or gaps in the slab. These tubes provide protection as the termites explore for food sources.
- Frass: Termite droppings, known as frass, resemble fine sand and may be present near cracks or openings in the slab. The presence of frass can indicate termite activity.
By keeping a section of the concrete slab exposed, you empower yourself and professional inspectors to identify termite threats early, allowing for swift intervention before costly repairs become necessary.
Australian Standards and the Exposed Slab Advantage
Australian Standard AS 3660.1-2014 outlines specific requirements for new buildings to minimise termite risk. One crucial element is the inclusion of a “visual barrier” – an exposed concrete slab around the perimeter of the building. This exposed section, typically at least 75mm in height, allows for the detection of termite activity as described above.

The Power of Prevention: Understanding Slab Integrity
While an exposed concrete slab is a valuable tool, it’s important to understand its limitations. The effectiveness of this barrier hinges on the integrity of the slab itself. Here’s what to consider:
- Cracks and Gaps: Cracks and gaps in the concrete slab can provide termites with a convenient entry point. During a pre-purchase inspection, Local Property Inspectors will thoroughly examine the slab for any cracks or gaps, recommending repairs if necessary.
- Expansion Joints: Concrete slabs naturally expand and contract with temperature changes. Expansion joints are incorporated to manage this movement and prevent cracking. However, these joints can also create potential entry points for termites. Inspectors will pay close attention to the condition of expansion joints and advise on appropriate sealing methods.
- Service Penetrations: Pipes, electrical conduits, and other service lines that penetrate the concrete slab can create weak points. Ensure these penetrations are properly sealed to prevent termite intrusion. Local Property Inspections can advise on the most effective sealing techniques for these areas.
Beyond the Slab: The Role of Ant Caps

If your house is on brick piers and not a slab, read on: While exposed concrete slabs offer a valuable first line of defence, ant caps provide an additional layer of protection. These small metal caps are installed around pipes, meter boxes, and other potential entry points for termites. They function in two key ways:
- Physical Barrier: The metal construction of ant caps creates a physical obstacle that termites struggle to penetrate. This discourages them from attempting to enter your home through these potential weak points.
- Early Detection: Similar to exposed concrete slabs, ant caps allow for visual inspection. During termite inspections, professionals will check for any signs of termite activity around the ant caps, such as mud tubes or frass accumulation. Early detection through ant caps allows for prompt treatment, minimising potential damage.

Partnering with us for Peace of Mind:
We understand the importance of a comprehensive termite management strategy for your Sydney home. Our pre-purchase inspections go beyond the surface, meticulously examining the condition of your exposed concrete slab and ant caps. We will identify any potential weaknesses in these crucial termite defence elements and provide recommendations for repairs or improvements. More info here.