Hiring the wrong plumber can cost you far more than the original job. With dozens of Melbourne plumbing companies to choose from, here’s how to make sure you’re picking someone trustworthy, licensed, and fairly priced.
1. Check They Hold a Current VBA Licence
All plumbing work in Victoria must be performed by a plumber licensed with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). You can verify any plumber’s licence at vba.vic.gov.au. Ask for their licence number upfront — any legitimate plumber will have it ready. Unlicensed plumbing work is illegal and can void your insurance.
2. Verify They Have Public Liability Insurance
Accidents happen. A plumber without public liability insurance leaves you exposed if something goes wrong on your property. Ask for proof of insurance before work starts. Most reputable plumbers carry a minimum of $5 million public liability cover.
3. Get a Written Quote Before Work Starts
Verbal quotes are difficult to dispute. Always get a written quote — or at minimum a written estimate with clear hour rates and call-out fees — before any work begins. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others: they often come with hidden charges.
4. Ask About After-Hours Rates
Emergency and after-hours call-outs carry a premium. Before calling an emergency plumber, ask what the call-out fee is and what the after-hours rate is. A good plumber will tell you upfront. See our Melbourne plumber cost guide for typical pricing ranges.
5. Check Google Reviews (and How They Respond to Negatives)
Google reviews give you real customer experiences. Don’t just look at the star rating — read through recent reviews, and check how the business responds to any negative feedback. A plumber who addresses complaints professionally is more trustworthy than one with a perfect rating but no reviews.
6. Check They Issue Compliance Certificates
For gasfitting and certain plumbing work in Victoria, a Certificate of Compliance must be issued after the job. If a plumber doesn’t mention this, ask for it specifically. You’ll need it for insurance purposes and when selling your property.
7. Look for Local, Established Businesses
A local Melbourne plumber has more skin in the game — their reputation is built in the same community they serve. National call-centre style services often subcontract to whoever’s available, and accountability can be harder to establish.
Sedcon Plumbing is a licensed Melbourne plumbing company serving homeowners, businesses, and property managers across Melbourne. Call 0468 013 012 for a free quote.