How to Hire a Licensed Plumber in Australia: A Homeowner's Complete Guide

A burst pipe at 2am. A blocked drain the morning before your in-laws arrive. A hot water system that gives up mid-winter. Plumbing problems rarely happen at a convenient time, and when they do, you need a licensed plumber you can trust.

Australia has over 7,500 licensed plumbers listed on TradieVerify, spread across every state and territory. But not every plumber is the right fit for every job. Hiring the wrong one can mean dodgy work, voided insurance, and thousands of dollars in rework. This guide walks you through how to hire a licensed plumber in Australia, step by step, so you get the job done right the first time.

Why You Should Only Hire a Licensed Plumber

In every Australian state and territory, plumbing is classified as regulated work. That means it is illegal for an unlicensed person to carry out plumbing work for payment. There are good reasons for this.

Legal protection. Licensed plumbers must hold a Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420) and complete supervised practical experience before they can work independently. Their work must comply with the Plumbing Code of Australia and the National Construction Code.

Insurance coverage. If an unlicensed person does plumbing work on your property and something goes wrong, your home insurance may not cover the damage. Licensed plumbers carry professional indemnity and public liability insurance, which protects both you and them.

Accountability. Licensed plumbers are registered with a state regulator. If there is a dispute or faulty work, you have a formal dispute resolution pathway. Unlicensed operators disappear when things go wrong.

Warranty on work. Under Australian Consumer Law, you are entitled to guarantees on services. A licensed plumber’s work must be carried out with due care and skill, be fit for purpose, and be completed within a reasonable time. These protections do not apply to cash-in-hand arrangements with unlicensed workers.

You can verify any plumber’s licence instantly on TradieVerify’s search page.

1. Understand What Type of Plumber You Need

Not all plumbers do the same work. Australian plumbing licences are issued with specific endorsements that define what a plumber is qualified to do. The main categories are:

• Water supply plumbing: installation and repair of water pipes, taps, toilets, and fixtures
• Sanitary plumbing: waste and sewerage connections
• Drainage: stormwater and sewer drainage systems
• Gas fitting: gas appliance installation, gas line work, and gas leak repairs (requires a separate gas fitting licence or endorsement)
• Roof plumbing: gutters, downpipes, roof sheeting, and rainwater tanks
• Mechanical services (HVAC plumbing): piping for heating, cooling, and ventilation systems

When you call a plumber, describe the job clearly and ask whether it falls within their licence endorsements. A general plumber may not be qualified to do gas fitting work, and a roof plumber may not handle your blocked drain.

Hot water system specialists are worth seeking out if you need a new system installed. Hot water installations often involve both water supply plumbing and either gas fitting or electrical work, depending on the system type. Some plumbers specialise in heat pump and solar hot water systems, which require additional training.

2. Check Their Licence Before You Hire

This is the single most important step. Before agreeing to any work, verify the plumber’s licence. Every state has a public register, and you can also search across states on TradieVerify.

Here is what to check:

• Licence status. Is it current and active, or expired/suspended?
• Licence class. Does it cover the type of work you need? A tradesperson certificate holder must work under supervision, while a contractor licence holder can take on jobs independently.
• Endorsements. If you need gas fitting or drainage work, confirm the plumber holds the right endorsement.
• Business details. Does the licence match the business name and ABN they have given you?

Ask for the licence number upfront. Any legitimate plumber will provide it without hesitation. If someone refuses or makes excuses, walk away.

Browse licensed plumbers in Queensland or licensed plumbers in the ACT to see what a verified plumber listing looks like.

3. Get at Least Three Written Quotes

The standard advice in Australia is to get three quotes before committing to any tradesperson. For plumbing work, this is particularly important because pricing varies significantly between operators.

What a good quote should include:

• A clear description of the work to be done
• Itemised costs for labour and materials
• Whether GST is included (it should be for businesses turning over more than $75,000)
• A timeline for completion
• Payment terms (avoid anyone who demands full payment upfront)
• Any exclusions or potential additional costs

Watch for vague quotes. A quote that says “plumbing repairs - $800” without detail is a red flag. You want to know exactly what you are paying for.

Fixed price vs hourly rate. For defined jobs like installing a tap or replacing a hot water system, a fixed-price quote gives you certainty. For diagnostic work or jobs where the scope is unclear (like tracking down a leak), an hourly rate with a capped maximum is reasonable.

4. Verify Their Insurance

A licensed plumber should carry at minimum:

• Public liability insurance, which covers damage to your property or injury caused during the work (typically $5-20 million cover)
• Professional indemnity insurance, which covers claims arising from faulty advice or work
• Workers’ compensation, required if they have employees

Ask for a Certificate of Currency. This is a one-page document from their insurer that confirms active coverage. A reputable plumber will have this ready to share.

If a plumber works without insurance and causes damage to your property, you may have no recourse other than taking them to court, which is expensive and time-consuming.

5. Ask the Right Questions Before Work Starts

Before you hire a plumber, have a quick conversation to assess their suitability. Here are the questions that matter:

• “How long have you been working as a plumber?” Experience matters, especially for complex jobs.
• “Have you done this type of job before?” You want someone familiar with your specific issue.
• “What is your call-out fee, and does it include the first hour?” Call-out fees range from $60 to $250, and policies differ.
• “Can you provide references from recent jobs?” Any good tradie will have happy customers.
• “What warranty do you offer on the work?” Most plumbers offer a 12-month workmanship warranty on top of your statutory rights.
• “Will you provide a Certificate of Compliance?” This is a legal requirement in most states for regulated plumbing work.

If a plumber is reluctant to answer these questions or gets defensive, consider it a warning sign.

6. Know the Difference Between Emergency and Scheduled Work

Plumbing jobs generally fall into two categories, and the pricing differs substantially.

Emergency plumbing includes burst pipes, major leaks, gas leaks, blocked sewer lines causing overflow, and complete loss of hot water in winter. Emergency plumbers typically charge higher rates and a premium call-out fee, especially outside business hours.

Scheduled plumbing covers planned work like tap replacements, new fixture installations, bathroom renovations, hot water system upgrades, and routine maintenance. You have time to get quotes and compare options.

Tip: If you have a plumbing issue that is not an emergency, resist the urge to call an emergency plumber. You will pay a premium for the same work. Instead, contain the problem (turn off the water at the isolation valve or mains if needed) and book a regular appointment.

The exception is gas leaks. If you smell gas, evacuate the property, call 000, and then call a licensed gas fitter. Gas leaks are always emergencies.

7. Understand Plumbing Costs in Australia

Plumbing rates vary by location, complexity, and urgency. Here are typical costs as of 2025-2026:

Factors that affect pricing:

• Location. Metro rates tend to be higher than regional areas. Sydney averages $100-135/hr, while Melbourne sits around $80-90/hr and Brisbane around $85-95/hr.
• Urgency. After-hours and weekend rates are typically 1.5x to 2x standard rates.
• Access. Tight crawl spaces, multi-storey buildings, and old homes with complex pipe layouts add time and cost.
• Materials. Copper pipe is more expensive than PEX or PVC. The plumber should itemise material costs in the quote.

Always ask whether the quoted price includes GST. Registered businesses must charge GST and provide a tax invoice.

8. State-by-State Plumbing Licence Guide

Each Australian state and territory has its own licensing authority for plumbers. Here is a summary with real licence counts from the TradieVerify database:

Key differences between states:

• Queensland uses a points-based system through the QBCC. Plumbers need specific licence classes (trade contractor, building contractor) depending on the value of work they take on.
• NSW issues three tiers: Tradesperson Certificate (work under supervision), Qualified Supervisor Certificate (supervise others), and Endorsed Contractor Licence (contract independently).
• Victoria distinguishes between Registered Plumbers (can do work under supervision) and Licensed Plumbers (can certify their own work and sign compliance certificates).
• ACT requires plumbers to be licensed through Access Canberra. The ACT maintains one of the most accessible public licence registers in the country.

9. Red Flags to Watch For

Protect yourself by knowing the warning signs of a dodgy plumber:

• No licence number provided. Legitimate plumbers display their licence number on quotes, invoices, and often their vehicle.
• Cash-only payments with no invoice. This likely means they are not registered for GST and may not be licensed.
• Pressure to decide immediately. A good plumber will not pressure you into signing on the spot.
• No written quote. Verbal agreements are hard to enforce if something goes wrong.
• Extremely low quotes. If one quote is dramatically lower than others, question why. Cheap work often means corners cut.
• No insurance documentation. Any plumber who cannot produce a Certificate of Currency is a risk.
• Door-to-door solicitation. Be cautious of plumbers who knock on your door offering unsolicited inspections or repairs. This is a common scam, particularly targeting elderly homeowners.
• Reluctance to provide references. Experienced plumbers have a track record they are happy to share.

If you suspect someone is operating without a licence, you can report them to your state’s licensing authority.

10. What to Do After the Work Is Done

Once the plumbing work is complete, take these steps:

1. Inspect the work. Check that everything is functioning as agreed. Run taps, flush toilets, check for leaks around new connections.
2. Get a Certificate of Compliance. For regulated plumbing work, the plumber must lodge a compliance certificate with the relevant authority. Ask for your copy. This is a legal requirement in most states.
3. Keep your invoice and warranty. File these with your home maintenance records. You may need them for insurance claims or if you sell the property.
4. Leave a review. Whether the experience was positive or negative, reviews help other homeowners make informed decisions. You can find plumber profiles on TradieVerify and leave feedback.
5. Report issues promptly. If something goes wrong after the job, contact the plumber first. Most will return to fix issues under warranty. If they do not respond, lodge a complaint with your state regulator.

Under Australian Consumer Law, you have rights to a remedy if the work was not carried out with due care, was not fit for purpose, or was not completed within a reasonable time.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Licensed Plumber in Australia?

The cost to hire a licensed plumber depends on several factors. As a rough guide:

• Small repair jobs (leaking tap, running toilet): $120 – $350 including call-out fee
• Medium jobs (blocked drain, new tap installation): $200 – $600
• Large projects (hot water system replacement, bathroom plumbing): $1,200 – $8,000+

Keep in mind that the cheapest quote is not always the best value. A licensed plumber who charges slightly more but does the job right the first time will save you money compared to a cut-rate operator whose work fails within months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if a plumber is licensed in Australia?

You can search for any plumber’s licence on TradieVerify’s search page, which aggregates licence data from state regulators across Australia. Alternatively, each state has its own register: QBCC for Queensland, NSW Fair Trading for New South Wales, VBA for Victoria, and Access Canberra for the ACT. Ask the plumber for their licence number and verify it before any work begins.

How much does a plumber charge per hour in Australia?

Most licensed plumbers in Australia charge between $80 and $200 per hour for standard work during business hours. Call-out fees range from $60 to $250. After-hours and emergency rates are higher, typically $150 to $300 or more per hour. Rates vary by city, with Sydney tending towards the higher end and regional areas often more affordable.

Can I do my own plumbing work in Australia?

In Australia, you can legally perform minor maintenance tasks like changing a tap washer, clearing a simple drain blockage, or replacing a shower head. However, any work that involves altering, extending, or connecting to the water supply, sewerage, or gas systems requires a licensed plumber. Doing regulated plumbing work without a licence is illegal in all states and territories and can result in fines.

What should I do if I have a complaint about a plumber?

Start by contacting the plumber directly to resolve the issue. If that does not work, lodge a formal complaint with your state’s licensing authority: QBCC in Queensland, Fair Trading in NSW, VBA in Victoria, CBS in South Australia, Access Canberra in the ACT, DEMIRS in Western Australia, CBOS in Tasmania, or NT BAS in the Northern Territory. You also have rights under Australian Consumer Law to seek a remedy for faulty services.

Do plumbers need to provide a compliance certificate?

Yes. In most Australian states and territories, a plumber is legally required to lodge a Certificate of Compliance (or equivalent) with the relevant authority after completing regulated plumbing work. This certificate confirms the work was done in accordance with the Plumbing Code of Australia. Always ask for your copy and keep it with your property records.

What is the difference between a registered and licensed plumber?

In states like Victoria and Queensland, there is a distinction between registration and licensing. A registered plumber has completed their trade qualification and can carry out plumbing work under supervision. A licensed plumber has additional experience and qualifications that allow them to work independently, certify their own work, and sign compliance certificates. When hiring a plumber for your home, you generally want someone who holds a full licence or contractor licence, not just registration.

Summary

Hiring a licensed plumber in Australia comes down to a few key steps:

• Verify the licence on TradieVerify or the relevant state register before agreeing to any work
• Get three written quotes with itemised breakdowns of labour and materials
• Confirm insurance by asking for a Certificate of Currency
• Ask about endorsements to make sure the plumber is qualified for your specific job, whether it is gas fitting, drainage, or general plumbing
• Know your rights under Australian Consumer Law, including your entitlement to a compliance certificate
• Report dodgy operators to your state regulator to protect other homeowners

With over 7,500 licensed plumbers listed across Queensland and the ACT alone, finding the right tradesperson starts with a simple licence check. Search for licensed plumbers in your area on TradieVerify and take the guesswork out of hiring.

Related Guides

• Plumbing Licences — Our plumbing licences guide
• How Much Does Plumbing Rough-In Cost for a New Home? Full 2025–2026 Price Guide — Our plumbing costs guide
• Emergency Plumbing: What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives — Our emergency plumbing checklist

Sources

1. Plumbing Code of Australia — Australian Building Codes Board, https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/
2. Queensland Building and Construction Commission — Plumber Licensing, https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/
3. NSW Fair Trading — Plumbing, Draining and Gasfitting Work, https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/licences-and-credentials/building-and-trade-licences-and-registrations/plumbing-draining-and-gasfitting
4. Victorian Building Authority — Plumbing Registration and Licensing, https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/registration-and-licensing/plumbing-registration-and-licensing
5. Access Canberra — Plumber Licensing, https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/
6. Australian Consumer Law — Consumer Guarantees on Services, https://consumer.gov.au/
7. Master Plumbers Association of South Australia — Choosing a Plumber, https://www.mpasa.com.au/find-a-plumber/choosing-a-plumber/
8. Trades Recognition Australia — Plumbers, https://www.tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au/plumbers