Why You Should Always Hire a Licensed Plumber?

craig25618
Aug 22
4 min read

Why Hiring a Licensed Plumber Matters

Plumbing plays a critical role in every Australian home. From supplying clean water to ensuring safe drainage, the plumbing system keeps households running smoothly. Yet when something goes wrong—a leaking tap, blocked drain, or burst pipe—many homeowners are tempted to cut corners by hiring the cheapest option or trying a DIY fix.

While this might seem like a way to save money, the reality is very different. Plumbing in Australia is highly regulated because improper work can cause severe damage, health risks, and even legal trouble. Choosing a licensed plumber isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your home, your family, and your finances.

Understanding Plumbing Regulations in Australia

In Australia, plumbing and drainage work is governed by state and territory authorities. Every plumber must hold a current license issued by their state’s plumbing board or regulatory body. This ensures they:

Meet strict training and competency requirements.
Follow the Plumbing Code of Australia and local standards.
Carry insurance that protects homeowners in case of faulty work.

This means that when you hire a licensed plumber, you’re not just paying for labour—you’re paying for expertise, compliance, and peace of mind.

The Risks of Unlicensed Plumbing

Hiring an unlicensed plumber, or attempting DIY plumbing, may look cheaper upfront, but the risks often outweigh the savings. Here’s why:

Unsafe Installations – Gas fittings, hot water systems, and pipework must be installed precisely. One mistake can cause leaks, flooding, or even dangerous gas leaks.
Water Damage – A small leak from poor workmanship can lead to mould, structural damage, and costly renovations down the track.
Insurance Issues – Most Australian home insurance policies will not cover damages caused by unlicensed plumbing work. That means you could be left paying thousands in repairs out of pocket.
Legal Penalties – In many states, carrying out unlicensed plumbing work is illegal and can result in hefty fines.

What looks like a “quick fix” often becomes a very expensive mistake.

Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Plumber

When you hire a licensed plumber, you’re investing in quality and safety. The benefits include:

1. Certified Expertise

Licensed plumbers undergo years of training and apprenticeships. They’re tested on both theory and practice, ensuring they can handle everything from simple leaks to complex installations.

2. Compliance With Australian Standards

Licensed plumbers must adhere to the Plumbing Code of Australia, guaranteeing your plumbing system is safe, legal, and efficient.

3. Long-Term Savings

Properly done plumbing work reduces the risk of repeat issues, hidden leaks, and unexpected breakdowns. That means fewer emergency call-outs and long-term savings for homeowners.

4. Insurance Protection

Because licensed plumbers are insured, you’re protected if something goes wrong. This provides homeowners with peace of mind that their property is covered.

5. Access to the Right Tools and Technology

Licensed plumbers have access to advanced equipment, like CCTV drain cameras, leak detectors, and hydro-jetting machines—tools that unlicensed handymen simply don’t use.

Common Plumbing Problems That Need a Licensed Professional

Homeowners in Australia often encounter plumbing issues that require expert attention. Some of the most common include:

Blocked Drains – Caused by tree roots, grease build-up, or foreign objects. Licensed plumbers can clear these safely using hydro-jetting or mechanical equipment.
Burst Pipes – A sudden pipe burst can cause major flooding. A licensed plumber can not only fix the pipe but also identify the cause to prevent recurrence.
Hot Water System Failures – Installation and repair of hot water systems (electric, gas, or solar) legally require a licensed plumber.
Leaking Taps and Toilets – While they may seem minor, leaks waste water and increase utility bills. Licensed plumbers can repair them correctly and ensure they don’t return.
Gas Plumbing – Any gas-related work, such as installing appliances or fixing leaks, must legally be done by a licensed gas fitter for safety reasons.

Attempting to fix these issues without the proper training or tools can make matters worse.

Supporting Local Homeowners

At Done Rite, we understand the unique plumbing challenges Australian homeowners face. From coastal homes dealing with corrosion to city apartments with older pipe systems, our licensed plumbers are trained to handle it all.

We take pride in providing:

Honest, upfront pricing.
Fully licensed and insured services.
Fast response times for emergencies.
Workmanship guaranteed to meet Australian standards.

Looking for more home care tips? Read our article on protecting your home from water damage to learn how to spot early warning signs before they become costly repairs.

Call the Experts at Done Rite

Your home deserves more than guesswork. Don’t risk unlicensed plumbing work that could damage your property, void your insurance, or put your family’s safety at risk.

Lower your bills, improve comfort, and future-proof your home with DoneRite’s Mornington Peninsula Plumbing services. Whether you’re in the Bass Coast or the South Eastern Suburbs, our team of licenced plumber is ready to help.