Do you believe no one will notice if you try your hand at plumbing? You might want to reconsider. If you’ve been bitten by the renovation bug, you’ve likely done some research online to figure out where to start. Deciding which tasks you can tackle yourself to save money and which ones need professional help can be a lengthy process. However, plumbing, drainage, and gas-fitting aspects of the renovation must be handled by a licensed tradesperson.
Unlicensed individuals shouldn’t attempt plumber work. Professional plumbers understand how to carry out tasks in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. They receive education and assessment on their ability to establish safety measures for public welfare.
While not all plumbers come cheap, homeowners who decide to do the work themselves may end up with costs exceeding the initial plumbing estimate. Consider the following before embarking on any plumbing tasks yourself:
#1. DIY plumbing is illegal
Performing tasks like installing, modifying, or even maintaining the plumbing in your home is against the law without the appropriate license.
“Most people don’t realize the legal and health risks associated with doing their own plumbing,” says Penny Cornah, Executive Director of the Master Plumbers’ Association of QLD (MPAQ).
“We strongly recommend using a licensed plumber.”
If an unlicensed person performs plumbing work, they may face significant fines and penalties. Unlicensed plumbers can face legal consequences in any one of Australia’s states. Plumbers who discover unauthorized work will report it to the relevant authority.
Social media platforms make it easy to spot individuals performing their own plumbing. Bragging about a DIY plumbing project can lead to trouble. To avoid hefty fines, hire a licensed plumber and let their work be assessed for compliance.
#2. DIY plumbing voids insurance
Licensed plumbers have insurance that covers their work, even if mistakes are made. Before hiring a plumber, make sure they have the appropriate insurance.
Unlicensed individuals cannot be insured for work they aren’t legally allowed to do. If an insurance claim is made against unauthorized work, building insurance will be void.
DIY projects often go wrong when the homeowner tries to use multiple flexible hoses to carry water from one location to another. If the hoses are not tightened correctly or are cross-threaded, they can burst, causing significant water damage.
If unauthorised work is discovered, the cost of repairing damage to walls, floors, and furniture falls on the homeowner. These expenses can amount to thousands of dollars – all of which could have been avoided by hiring a licensed plumber.
Tip: Ask a plumber or gasfitter for their valid license and insurance certificate to ensure they’re qualified and hold the right license for the job.
#3. DIY plumbing impacts public health
No one wants to see or smell sewage flowing through a stormwater drain, but it can happen when plumbing services are not connected by a licensed plumber.
Using a professional plumber can help avoid unnecessary costs. In Queensland, homeowners are given 24 hours to hire a plumber to fix the issue if sewage is connected to a stormwater drain.
Incorrect sewage connections pose health and safety risks. The tight timeframe highlights the importance of directing wastewater through the proper channels for community health. These situations can be very stressful for homeowners.
#4. DIY plumbing can make your home unsellable
When selling a house, a solicitor and building inspector will perform checks to protect buyers from purchasing a home with hidden issues. During the conditional sale period, these inspections can reveal unauthorized plumbing work.
If a compliance certificate for a bathroom extension or reconfigured kitchen services cannot be sourced, local authorities will request information about the changes. Many sales fall through in such situations, as no one wants to buy a home with unapproved building work.
Suggestion: When selling your home, make sure to have all compliance certificates for any renovations or extensions you’ve done during your time living there.
#5. Improper installation of plumbing appliances may nullify warranties
Dishwashers, hot water heaters, and cold and hot water sources require professional plumbing installation to maintain manufacturer warranties. If it’s discovered that an unlicensed individual did the installation, the warranty could become void.
Dishwasher warranty booklets often specify if a flood-stop and water pressure limiting valve are necessary for the installation. Plumbers understand the significance of these valves. Warranties for appliances may be voided if a dishwasher hose bursts or malfunctions due to water pressure issues.
Blocked Drain Drain Pipe Plumbing Maintenance Drain Cleaning Leaking Kitchen Pipe
Tip: Carefully read your appliances warranty information to determine if you can legally install them yourself.
The process of becoming a plumber involves extensive training, and the requirements for obtaining this qualification are similar across all Australian states. Plumbers who earned their qualifications abroad should contact their local Australian licensing organisation to see if they’re eligible for a local plumbing license.
The cost of hiring a plumber takes into account the skills shortage and the expense of maintaining licenses and insurance for professional work. Are you tired of dealing with a constantly running toilet or a leaky bowl? Let Plumfast take care of all your toilet repair or replacement needs. Our expert plumbers are ready to provide top-notch service and ensure your toilet is functioning at its best. Don’t let a faulty toilet disrupt your daily routine any longer. Contact Plumfast today and experience the difference our plumbing services can make!
Unsure whether to repair or replace your toilet? Discover the answer here!
If you want to discuss how we can assist you, give us a call at 1300 758 632.
