In a world where DIY videos are just a tap away and hardware stores seem to stock every possible fitting and fixture, it’s tempting to think you can tackle any plumbing job yourself. After all, how hard can it be to fix a tap or install a new showerhead, right?
But plumbing isn’t always as straightforward as it looks, and deciding whether to call in a professional or have a crack at it yourself can be the difference between a quick fix and a very expensive mistake.
So, when is it safe to DIY? And when is it best to leave it to the pros?
What You Can Do Yourself
Let’s start with the good news. There are a few simple jobs that a confident DIYer can usually handle with the right tools, a bit of research, and a careful approach.
Replacing Tap Washers or Showerheads
A dripping tap can often be fixed by replacing a worn-out washer, and updating your showerhead is a quick way to improve water pressure or cut water usage. These are minor tasks that don’t require disturbing major plumbing lines or cutting into pipes.
Unclogging a Drain
Using a plunger or a drain snake to clear a blocked sink or shower is a relatively safe and common DIY job. Just avoid pouring chemicals down the drain—it can damage pipes and make things worse if the blockage is deep.
Tightening Loose Fittings
Got a wobbly tap or a leaky connection under the sink? If it’s just a matter of tightening a loose joint with a spanner, that’s a fairly risk-free fix.
Where You Should Call a Plumber
Now for the trickier part. Several jobs require a licensed plumber—and not just because they’re difficult. In Australia, plumbing is a regulated trade. That means some tasks are illegal to do yourself unless you’re licensed.
Installing or Relocating Pipes
Any work involving the installation, extension or relocation of water, gas or drainage pipes must be carried out by a licensed plumber. Mistakes here can lead to serious water damage, flooding or worse—sewage issues.
Bathroom or Kitchen Renovations
You’ll need a plumber to handle things like moving fixtures, connecting to waste lines or upgrading the water system. Not only is it required by law, but a botched installation can cost a fortune to fix later.
Gas Fittings
Gas work is extremely dangerous and always needs a qualified gasfitter. If you smell gas, turn it off at the mains and call in a professional immediately. This isn’t a “have a go” situation.
Hot Water System Repairs or Installations
Whether it’s electric, gas, or solar, working on your hot water system without the proper qualifications is not only risky but often voids the manufacturer’s warranty.
Why Hiring a Plumber Makes Sense
Even if the law doesn’t require it, hiring a professional plumber can save you time, stress and money in the long run.
1. They Know What They’re Doing
Plumbers go through years of training, apprenticeships and certification. They know how to diagnose problems properly, work efficiently and do it all in compliance with Australian plumbing standards.
2. You’ll Get a Compliance Certificate
For certain works, especially in renovations or new builds, you’ll need a certificate that proves the work was done properly and legally. This is critical if you ever plan to sell or rent your home.
3. They Come Equipped
A professional plumber shows up with the right tools, parts and experience to fix the issue without five trips to Bunnings. That alone can save you hours of frustration.
4. You Might Save Money
Yes, a plumber costs more upfront, but how much will it cost if you flood your bathroom or crack a pipe behind the wall? Fixing DIY disasters is often more expensive than just getting the job done right the first time.
Common DIY Plumbing Mistakes (That Cost Big Time)
If you’re still tempted to tackle that leaking pipe or toilet installation, consider some of the most common and costly DIY plumbing errors:
- Over-tightening fittings, which can crack pipes or threads
- Incorrect slope in drainage pipes, leading to ongoing clogs
- Using the wrong pipe materials, which may not meet code or pressure requirements
- Forgetting to turn off the water, resulting in mini indoor floods* Not sealing joints properly, causing slow leaks that go unnoticed until there’s visible damage
In many cases, these mistakes aren’t obvious until weeks or months later—by which time the damage is done.
What About Emergency Plumbing?
Let’s say a pipe bursts in the middle of the night—do you need to wait for a plumber? Not necessarily. The best thing to do is:
- Turn off the water at the mains
- Mop up any standing water
- Call an emergency plumber
Trying to fix a burst pipe yourself in a panic can make things worse. Even if you manage to temporarily slow the leak, you’ll likely need a plumber to do a proper, lasting repair.
Legal Considerations in Australia
In most Australian states, it’s illegal to do certain types of plumbing work without a licence, particularly when it involves:
- Water supply systems
- Drainage and sewage
- Gas systems
- Roofing and guttering connected to stormwater
DIY work in these areas can result in fines, invalidate your home insurance and even endanger your safety. Always check with your local council or state authority if you’re unsure what you can legally do.
Final Word: Know When to Call the Experts
So, should you hire a plumber or do it yourself?
If the job is small, non-structural and doesn’t involve cutting or connecting pipes, go for it, with care. You’ll save some cash and get a nice little sense of accomplishment.
But if the job involves anything beyond basic surface-level repairs or if you’re not 100% sure what you’re doing, don’t risk it. Call a licensed plumber.
Your home—and your wallet—will thank you later.
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The above article is paid content, and any information presented should be independently verified before making any decisions as a result of the content. This article does not constitute advice of any kind, nor does it represent the opinions of the website publisher.