Plumbers are important for keeping homes and businesses safe and functional. More than just fixing leaks, plumbers install, repair and maintain water, sewer and gas systems to meet strict safety standards, preventing costly damage and health risks.

Beyond emergency repairs, what plumbers do is design and install plumbing systems in homes, businesses and industrial buildings, making sure everything complies with Australian regulations. 

This blog explores what plumbers do to maintain your plumbing, what they don’t and why their work is necessary for Aussie homes and businesses.

A Brief History and Overview of What Plumbers Do

Professional plumbers are trained and seasoned experts who specialise in water, gas and waste systems. The history of plumbing dates back to ancient civilisations, where early systems were designed to manage water flow and waste disposal.

The term "plumbing" itself is said to be derived from the Greek words meaning "to flow" and "to drain" which reflect the fundamental functions of these systems. Plumbing can be complex, as it requires a thorough understanding of systems, materials and compliance with local regulations and building codes. Although plumbing has traditionally been a male-dominated field, more women are also now entering the trade. 

In Australia, specific plumbing work is restricted to licensed professionals, as unqualified individuals may endanger safety and violate compliance regulations. So, when asking “what does a plumber do?”, it’s clear that their role involves much more than just basic repairs and requires a high level of expertise and responsibility.

What Does a Plumber Do: The Core Duties of a Licensed Plumber

These are some of what does a plumber do to maintain the safety and efficiency of plumbing systems: 

Assess the Plumbing Issue

A licensed plumber starts by diagnosing the root cause of a leak, blockage or any plumbing problem. Accurate assessment helps prevent recurring issues and leads to effective, lasting repairs.

Change and Repair of Plumbing Parts or Appliances 

Plumbers replace worn or faulty components, such as pipes, taps, water heaters and gas fittings. It keeps plumbing systems functioning properly and prevents costly damage.

Choose the Right Equipment for Each Job

They make sure that only the proper tools and quality materials are used for efficiency and durability.

Prepare Cost Estimates for Clients

Plumbers provide transparent quotes outlining the cost of labour, materials and any additional work required. It helps clients understand the scope of the job before any work begins.

Hold a Valid Plumbing Licence

In Australia, plumbers must be licensed to perform most types of plumbing work. This guarantees their work is legal, safe and meets industry standards.

Read and Interpret Plumbing Plans/Blueprints

Licensed plumbers are knowledgeable in reading and interpreting blueprints which allows them to install and repair systems accurately. This is especially important for new builds and large commercial projects.

Comply with Plumbing Codes and Standards

They follow strict regulations to make sure all work meets local safety and efficiency standards. Compliance helps protect both property and public health.

What Plumbers Do Exactly: Residential vs Commercial Plumbing

What plumbers do varies depending on where the work is being done. Let’s break it down with a quick look at the types of jobs plumbers typically tackle in these two main sectors: residential and commercial settings.

Residential Plumbing

Plumbing services for homes, units, townhouses, strata complexes and real estate properties help make sure water systems remain functional and efficient. Plumber tasks typically include:

• Sink and shower drain cleaning
• Stormwater drain servicing and clearing
• Sewer repair and blockage removal
• Downpipe unclogging
• Tap, showerhead and mixer installation and replacement
• Vanity unit and toilet installation
• Water-saving device installation
• Installation, repair, replacement and relocation of electric hot water systems
• Burst pipe and leak repairs
• Installation of plumbed-in fridges and water filters
• Water Efficiency Testing for real estate compliance

Commercial Plumbing

Larger-scale plumbing solutions cater to businesses, offices, factories, cafes, schools and hotels. Plumbing jobs entail:

• Backflow prevention testing and installation
• Leak detection and plumbing compliance inspections
• Grease trap installation and maintenance
• High-pressure jet drain clearing
• Pipe relining and structural repairs
• Commercial hot water system installation, repairs and replacements
• Installation of commercial-grade fixtures
• Water filtration system installation
• Routine plumbing inspections and maintenance plans

What Plumbers Do Not Do

Knowing what are not permitted to do is just as important as understanding what do plumbers do and their core responsibilities. While they handle a wide range of plumbing tasks, there are certain jobs that fall outside their scope of work, such as:

Carry Out Work Without the Client's Consent

Plumbers must always obtain client consent before starting any work, as this is a legal and ethical obligation.

Perform Electrical Work

Licensed electricians must carry out electrical work, as plumbers are not trained or certified to handle electrical systems.

Work on Gas Appliances Unless Gas-certified

Plumbers cannot work on gas appliances unless they hold a separate gas certification, as it requires specific training and expertise.

Alter Structural Building Elements

Only licensed builders or engineers are authorised to make structural changes to a building, meaning plumbers cannot modify structural elements.

Neglect Council Approvals and Compliance Requirements

All plumbing work must comply with local and national plumbing codes and plumbers must make sure that any necessary council approvals are obtained before proceeding.

Diagnose or Repair Appliances Outside the Plumbing Scope

Plumbers are not qualified to diagnose or repair appliances that are beyond the scope of plumbing systems.

Provide Plumbing Certification without Inspection

Plumbers cannot issue a plumbing certificate without first conducting a proper inspection to make sure everything is up to standards.

Bypass Water Meter Regulations or Alter Water Meters

Plumbers are not allowed to bypass water meter regulations or alter water meters, as doing so is illegal and violates local regulations.

What Do Plumbers Do? Ask Down to Earth Plumbing Maintenance!

At Down to Earth Plumbing Maintenance, when we’re asked “what do plumbers do?” - we always say that plumbers are the quiet heroes behind the scenes. From minor repairs to large installations, they’re skilled in addressing plumbing needs for both homes and businesses.

We are a licensed and experienced team that offers reliable and comprehensive plumbing services for both residential and commercial spaces in Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.

For all your plumbing needs, don’t hesitate to give us a call!