How Much Does a Plumber Cost? [2024]

There are many times when you may need to hire a plumber, whether it's for routine maintenance, a major reno project or an emergency that just can't wait. But how much does a plumber cost?

While the price of plumbing does depend on a few factors, such as where you live, it is possible to estimate the cost. This article outlines what you can expect to pay for a plumber, as well as what jobs they can help you with.

Read this guide to plumber rates in Australia to find out about:

• How much does a plumber cost per hour?
• How much does a plumber cost for different jobs?
• Does my plumber need to be licensed?
• What is a Master Plumber?
• Hiring a plumber
• Getting quotes from plumbers

A plumber is an integral tradie on any major bathroom reno. © Caroline Springs Splashbacks

How much does a plumber cost per hour?

Hourly rates for plumbers can be anywhere from $100 to $150 per hour, depending on the plumber. Understand that if you leave your plumber waiting, you are likely to be charged for that time.

Plumbers may sometimes charge a fixed rate rather than an hourly rate for services such as unblocking drains and installing water systems.

Plumbers also usually charge an initial call-out fee, which is what you pay to have them visit your property. A call-out fee can cost anything from $60 to $100, on top of other costs.

The fee your plumber charges will depend on where you live and may vary according to the plumber's skill level. For example, a Master Plumber is likely to charge more for their services.

Some plumbers offer a 24-hour emergency plumbing service, since many plumbing problems occur outside the 9 to 5 window. The cost to hire an emergency plumber varies, with some plumbers charging their usual hourly rates, though most will charge extra.

How much does a plumber cost for different jobs?

Plumbers provide a wide range of services. The cost of plumber services can range from $60 to $12,000, depending on the job and where you live. Expect to pay:

• $60 to $140 to fix a dripping tap or leaking toilet
• $80 to $250 to replace and fit bath or basin taps or a new shower head
• $160 to $550 to install a toilet, basin, sink or bath
• $1,200 to $4,500 for hot water service replacement
• $3,500 to $12,000 to install a solar hot water system, depending on its size and complexity
• $5,000 to $20,000 to replace your entire drainage system
• $6,000 to $12,000 for re-plumbing an entire house, depending on the complexity of the piping and features required

These are approximate prices only and may not include the call out rates.

Changing taps and washers are some of the most common jobs for a plumber. © Shaw Flow Plumbing

Does my plumber need to be licensed?

Like other essential trades such as builders, electricians and gasfitters, plumbers in Australia need to be licensed to advertise their services and carry out any work in your home. There are several licence classes for plumbers that apply Australia wide.

• For most domestic plumbing jobs, a standard plumbing license is all that's required. If you need work on any gas fittings done, make sure your plumber also has a valid endorsement or licence for gasfitting.
• A licensed plumbing contractor is qualified to manage and supervise larger plumbing projects. They will generally supervise plumbers who hold a tradesperson certificate and their work must be inspected by a plumbing contractor.
• If you need a more specialised plumbing job, these may require your plumber to have additional training and possibly even an additional condition on their licence, such as for fire protection services, urban irrigation or sanitary drainage projects.

Plumbers are also obliged to provide you with a compliance certificate. This confirms that the work has been done to the required specifications and standards.

What is a Master Plumber?

You may come across some plumbers who advertise themselves as Master Plumbers. They have the same licence as other plumbers, but as members of a state-based Master Plumbers Association, they have access to the latest industry advice and expertise. This enables them to maintain high standards and deliver a superior service to you.

Always use a licensed plumber, no matter how small the job. © Hans on Plumbing Services

Hiring a plumber

When it comes time to hire a plumber, you need to make sure they are right for your job. Some questions to ask them include:

• Are you licensed?
• Are you insured to work in my home?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up?

No matter the size of your plumbing job, always request a fully itemised quote including the cost of all materials used.

Remember to allow extra budget for other work, such as tiling, rendering or painting after your plumbing job is complete.

Read more: What trades do you need for a bathroom renovation?

Getting quotes from plumbers

Get a sense how much your project will cost by getting several quotes from licensed plumbers where you live. This will enable you to get a sense of what market rates currently are.

Take the time to review each plumber's quote and choose the one that suits your budget and requirements. Also make sure you understand what the quote includes and excludes, as some quotes will include the materials supplied and used, while others won't.

Sometimes, your plumber may need to carry out more extensive work than was first anticipated. This will usually incur another charge, so be sure to ask your plumber before they begin.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.