Plumbing and gas questions, answered

We always give you the price for the work before we start, so there are no surprises.

Changing a tap washer or clearing a shower drain is often fine to do yourself. Gas work, hot water units, sewer and stormwater drains, and pipes inside walls must legally be done by a licensed plumber in Victoria.

Ask for their licence number and check it on the Victorian Building Authority’s public register. Ours is 115 203.

The scope of work, parts and labour, whether the price is fixed or an estimate, the warranty, and who issues the compliance certificate.

For larger jobs like a new hot water system or drain repairs, yes. Compare what is included, not just the price.

For most regulated plumbing and gas work in Victoria, the licensed plumber must give you a compliance certificate. Keep it, because insurers and future buyers may ask for it.

A gas smell, no hot water, sewage coming up through a drain, a burst pipe, or water coming through a ceiling. Turn off the water at the meter and call.

Most repairs and heater services take 1 to 2 hours. We give you a time estimate when you book.

Clear access to the problem area, the meter and the heater or hot water unit. Secure pets if needed, and have any old paperwork for the appliance handy.

At least every two years, as recommended by Energy Safe Victoria. More about heater servicing.

Usually a hidden leak or a running toilet. Try the 2-minute meter test on our leaks page.

A licensed gasfitter can. We service and repair ducted heaters, wall furnaces, space heaters and gas log fires.