![Australian Plumbing Cost Guide [2024 Edition]](https://goldfieldskey.com.au/_image/post/613/businesskey_oct_2024_800x622-1.png)
Disclaimer: All costs and prices mentioned in this guide were sourced at the time of writing and should be used as estimates. The provided prices and information are subject to change and may vary depending on location and other factors. It is advisable to consult local sources and professionals for the most up-to-date and accurate details.
Need information on plumbing costs?
Our Australian Plumbing Cost Guide is designed to help you estimate expenses for your upcoming plumbing project.
So, what can you expect to pay for a plumber? The average plumbing cost varies significantly based on the nature of the work, ranging from as low as $60 for simple repairs, like fixing a leaky tap, to as much as over $20,000 for a full drainage system replacement.
There are many situations where hiring a plumber is necessary, whether it’s for routine maintenance, a major renovation, or an urgent repair that can’t wait. But what should you expect to pay for plumbing services?
While the cost can vary based on several factors, including location, estimating the expenses involved is possible. This article provides an overview of plumber rates and the types of jobs they can assist you with.
Check out this guide on plumber rates to learn about:
While most people tend to think of plumbers only when they encounter a clogged drain, an overflowing toilet, or an unexpectedly chilly shower, the realm of plumbing and drainage services encompasses much more.
Some common plumbing tasks include:
Specialised plumbers handle larger-scale projects such as:
The cost of hiring a plumber varies depending on several factors. Typically, there is a call-out fee for the initial inspection, and then plumbers charge an hourly rate until the job is completed.
Plumber costs can vary among tradespeople based on location, the scope of work, required equipment, and level of experience. It's also important to consider whether they are licenced through the master plumbers association.
If you're wondering about the plumber's hourly rate, it usually falls between $110 and $160, while the average rate across Perth is $60-$200.
Some plumbers may offer fixed prices for specific services, such as water system installations or drain unblocking.
During regular working hours, most emergency plumbers charge their standard hourly fee, but it's worth noting that some may apply a premium for emergency services.
The costs are typically higher when emergencies occur outside regular work hours (usually 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). The plumber call-out fee can double on weekends, holidays, or late nights.
Emergency call-out rates range from $200 to over $400, significantly higher than regular rates.
To give you an idea of average charges and pricing, here's a breakdown (depending on your location and your plumber's expertise):
For toilet installations, the average price ranges from $130 to $250, excluding the unit cost. Since toilets are essential fixtures, it's important to address any issues promptly.
For larger projects, remember to consider additional costs for tasks like tiling, rendering, and painting once the plumbing work is completed.
This cost guide can help you get a rough estimate of plumbing prices. However, it's best to contact local licenced tradespeople in your area for accurate and up-to-date estimates.
Obtain multiple quotes and carefully review them. Some estimates may include material costs, while others may not.
It's also wise to budget for any additional work that may arise if the job is more extensive than initially anticipated. Discuss this with your tradesperson in advance.
Lastly, ensure you are present when the plumber arrives to avoid being charged for waiting time.
When considering the cost of plumbing a new house, the property size and the number of bathrooms significantly impact the price.
The current estimates for plumbing a new home are approximate as follows:
For a new house measuring 2,000 square feet with two bathrooms, plumbing costs typically range from $12,000 to $18,000. In contrast, smaller homes, such as units or granny flats, generally come in at a lower cost, spanning from $6,000 to $10,000.
When it comes to plumbing work in Western Australia, only those who hold a license from the Plumbers Licensing Board can legally undertake tasks related to water supply, sanitation, and drainage. But why does that matter to you? Choosing a licenced plumber isn't just about following the rules; it’s about ensuring the health and safety of your home and community.
Using licenced plumbers minimises:
By hiring a licenced professional, you're not only getting quality work but also protected by a six-year guarantee against faulty workmanship. If the job doesn't meet the plumbing standards, the Board can direct the plumber to fix the issue at no extra cost to you.
See the difference between plumbers, plumbing contractors, drainage contractors and general plumbers below.
When it comes to plumbing services, there is a key difference between plumbers and plumbing contractors. Licenced plumbing contractors hold the authority to supervise licenced plumbers and are responsible for inspecting and ensuring the quality of their work. Plumbers, in contrast, are skilled professionals who tackle everyday plumbing issues and often operate under the umbrella of a contractor.
Typically, plumbing contractors are engaged for larger projects that require more technical expertise, such as extensive repairs, renovations, or work related to water supply systems and septic installations. Interestingly, in smaller operations, a plumber may also take on the role of the contractor, seamlessly blending both responsibilities.
There’s often confusion when it comes to hiring the right professional for your plumbing needs. Many people mistakenly call a plumber when what they really need is a drainage contractor.
While plumbing and drainage might appear similar, they serve different functions within your property’s infrastructure.
Drainage contractors specialise in:
General plumbers typically handle:
When hiring a plumber, it’s important to ensure they’re well-suited for your specific project. Here are some key questions to ask potential candidates:
Regardless of the scope of your plumbing job, always request a fully itemised quote that breaks down the costs of all materials and labour.
When planning a plumbing project, one of the best ways to understand the potential costs is to gather several quotes from licenced plumbers in your area. Here are some of the top licensed plumbers in the Goldfields region that locals and companies rely on:
Gathering quotes will give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to pay and help you compare rates and services. Understanding the costs involved can help you make informed choices. As you review each quote, take a moment to think about your budget and specific needs. It's essential to know exactly what each quote encompasses—some may include the cost of materials, while others might list them separately. Asking questions and seeking clarification can help avoid any surprises later on.
Do keep in mind that as your plumber assesses the work, they might find that additional tasks are necessary beyond what was initially planned, such as tiling, rendering, or painting. This could lead to extra charges, so it’s a good idea to have an open conversation with them before the work begins.
Ready to find the right professional for your needs? Visit our directory at Goldfields Key to access local quotes and start your project with confidence.
Please note that the costs and prices mentioned in this article are indicative and should be used as a guideline. They may vary by location and are subject to market fluctuations.
