A dripping tap can wait. A burst pipe, a blocked sewer or a hot water system that’s given up on a winter morning can’t. Whether it’s an emergency or a planned job like a bathroom renovation, the plumber you pick makes a big difference to the result and the bill. Here’s how to choose a plumber you can trust in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.
Check they’re registered or licensed
In Victoria, plumbers and gasfitters must be registered or licensed with the Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC), which took over from the Victorian Building Authority. They have to be registered or licensed for each class of work they do, so a plumber who’s qualified for water supply and drainage isn’t automatically allowed to work on your gas heater.
Before you book anyone, look them up with the BPC’s Find a Practitioner search. Registered and licensed plumbers also carry a photo ID card showing the classes of work they can do, and you’re entitled to ask to see it.
Know the difference between licensed and registered
A licensed plumber has a higher level of accreditation than a registered plumber. Licensed plumbers can supervise others, and they’re the only ones who can issue a compliance certificate confirming the work meets plumbing regulations and standards. Licensed plumbers must also hold insurance that protects you if their work turns out to be defective. For anything beyond a small repair, ask who will be signing off the job.
Ask for a compliance certificate
Keep the compliance certificate with your home records. It’s proof the work was done properly, and it’s useful if something goes wrong later or when you come to sell. If a plumber is reluctant to provide one for a job that needs it, treat that as a warning sign.
Get more than one quote
For planned work, ask two or three local plumbers to quote. A good quote should spell out:
- what’s included and what isn’t
- parts and fixtures, including brands where it matters (hot water units, tapware)
- labour, call-out fees and any after-hours rates
- how long the job should take
- warranty on workmanship and parts
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value. A plumber who takes the time to inspect the job properly before quoting is usually the one who won’t surprise you with extras halfway through.
Choose someone local
A plumber based in or near your suburb can usually get to you faster, which matters most in an emergency. Local businesses also rely on word of mouth and their reputation in the area, so they have every reason to do the job well. Ask neighbours, local community groups and friends who they’ve used.
Questions worth asking before you book
- Are you licensed for this type of work, and can I see your ID card?
- Will you provide a compliance certificate?
- Is the quote fixed, or an estimate?
- Do you charge a call-out fee?
- What warranty do you offer?
- Can you handle the gas side of the job too, if it has one?
Find plumbers and gasfitters near you
Local Business Near Me lists plumbers and gasfitters across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, from Mernda and Doreen to Epping, South Morang and beyond. Pick your suburb, compare local businesses and call them directly. It’s free to use and there’s no middleman taking a cut.
Need another trade? You can also browse electricians, builders and renovators and air conditioning and heating specialists.
