Difference Between Registered vs. Licensed Plumber

When it comes to hiring a plumber, not all qualifications are created equal. In Australia, plumbers fall into two main categories: registered plumbers and licensed plumbers. Understanding the difference between these two can save you time, money, and potential headaches. Whether you’re tackling a leaking pipe or installing a complex gas system, knowing who’s qualified to do the job is critical to ensure compliance with legal standards and safety regulations.

What is the Difference Between a Registered and Licensed Plumber?

Understanding the distinction between a registered plumber and a licensed plumber is crucial for anyone looking to hire plumbing services or pursue a career in the industry. The two terms refer to different qualifications, levels of experience, and legal privileges regarding the type of work they are authorized to perform.

1. Registered Plumber

A registered plumber is a person who has undergone some foundational training in plumbing and acquired some sort of basic qualification in the same, which is essential for compliance with the relevant plumbing regulations. While a registered plumber demonstrates competency in plumbing concepts, a registered plumber does not qualify to work as a fully licensed plumber. How to Become a Plumber in Australia

Key Characteristics:

Supervised Work: Registered plumbers are expected to work under the supervision of a licensed plumber. This ensures that more complex or riskier plumbing tasks are done correctly and safely, reducing the risk of defective plumbing work.

Scope of Work: They are usually permitted to do less complicated, low-risk jobs. Common tasks may include:

• Minor hygienic repairs.
• Clearing blocked drains.
• Assisting licensed plumbers in pipe fitting or installing other fixtures.

Sample of Job Description:

For instance, a registered plumber can assist the plumbing of a drainage system by doing any preparation work but may not install it independently without the supervision of a licensed plumber.

Education Requirement:

The training of a registered plumber usually undergoes a Certificate II in Plumbing to equip them with basic skills and knowledge to perform plumbing tasks under supervision.

Regulatory Body:

The requirements for a registered plumber vary from state to state or territory in Australia. For more details, refer to your local regulatory authority:

• Victorian Building Authority - Registered Plumbers
• Plumbers and drainers | NSW Fair Trading 

2. Licensed Plumber

A licensed plumber has vast training and work experience that enables them to acquire a full plumbing license; thus, they are qualified to carry out almost all types of plumbing jobs. Getting a Plumbing License 

Independent Operations: Plumbers who are licensed can operate independently in all regulated plumbing work. They are allowed to sign off on plumbing jobs and are responsible for ensuring that all regulations regarding the same are complied with.

Scope of Work: They are able to perform challenging and risky plumbing tasks, including:

• Installing gas piping.
• Backflow prevention systems.
• Maintenance and repairs of high-pressure systems and large-scale plumbing installations.
• Ensure that all work is done according to Australian plumbing codes and safety standards.

Example of Duties:

A licensed plumber can install a complete plumbing system for a new construction project independently, including the installation of gas appliances, water heating, and waste management systems.

Training and Experience Requirements:

To get the license to practice as a plumber, the candidate needs to complete:

• A Certificate III in Plumbing which includes theoretical as well as practical skills.
• An apprenticeship of some years, usually 4 years under a licensed plumber.
• Some areas of jobs also demand extra certifications, such as gas fitting.

Licensing body

Each state or territory has its licensing body that issues the plumbing licenses. For example,

• Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)
• Fair Trading NSW - Licensed Plumbers

For a detailed breakdown of these roles, refer to the The difference between plumbing registrations and licences | Victorian Building Authority 

Regulated and Unregulated Plumbing Work: Who Can Perform What?

Regulated plumbing work in Victoria includes tasks like drainage, gasfitting, fire protection, roofing, and water supply, requiring licensed professionals to ensure compliance with the relevant plumbing regulations and safety. Unregulated plumbing work, such as minor repairs (e.g., replacing tap washers), can often be performed by homeowners but must adhere to local guidelines to avoid risks. Licensed plumbers are essential for high-risk or complex tasks, while unlicensed work could lead to non-compliance and safety hazards. To learn more visit: 

• Regulated Plumbing Work Requirements Guide 
• Unregulated Plumbing Guide.
• Engaging a plumber | Victorian Building Authority 

How to Verify a Plumber’s License in Australia

Hiring a plumber involves more than just looking for the lowest price; it's important to make sure the professional you hire is qualified and licensed to do the work safely and effectively. Here's a detailed guide on how to verify a plumber's license in Australia.

1. Check Government Databases

One of the most reliable methods to verify a plumber's credentials is through state-specific government databases. You can find an authority where you can check a plumber's registration status in each state and territory in Australia.

• Visit the VBA Practitioner Directory: Engaging a plumber | Victorian Building Authority 
• Access the QBCC License Search: Regulated plumbing work requirements | Queensland Building and Construction Commission 
• Go to the Service NSW License Search: Check a builder or tradesperson licence | Service NSW 
• Western Australia: Building and Energy
• South Australia: Consumer & Business Services
• Tasmania: Consumer, Building and Occupational Services
• Australian Capital Territory: Access Canberra
• Northern Territory: Certifying Plumber and Drainer Registration - NT - Australian Business Licence and Information Service 

2. Check Insurance and Qualifications

Apart from certification, the plumber should have adequate insurance to cover any unforeseen incidents. Guide to Applying for Trade Licenses in Australia 2025 

Following are some steps you can undertake to verify insurance and qualification of the plumber:

• Public Liability Insurance: This keeps both you and the plumber safe in case of accidents or damages due to the job; request a copy of the insurance certificate. A Clear Guide to Trade Licensing Penalties in Australia
• Worker's compensation: Insurance that covers the workers if one gets injured during work. Your hired plumber needs to have it to go ahead with it.

3. Potential Watch-outs

Look out for potential danger signs that spell trouble when validating a plumber into your home to fix an emergent broken pipe:

• Reluctance to Show Credentials: If a plumber is unwilling or hesitant to produce a license or identification card, that is a major red flag. A true professional will have no problem producing such documentation.
• No Insurance: Always request to see proof of insurance. You might face severe financial liability when working with an uninsured plumber in case of accidents or damage, especially in the case of any defective plumbing.
• No Reviews or References: A good plumber should have positive reviews or references from previous customers. Lack of feedback may mean inexperience or unreliability.
• Unwillingness to Provide Estimates: Good plumbers should be in a position to give clear estimates for their work. Beware of those who give very vague pricing or won't put costs in writing.

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FAQ

1. Can registered plumbers work independently?

Answer: No, registered plumbers must work under the supervision of a licensed plumber and cannot perform regulated work alone.

2. Do plumbers need a separate license for each class of plumbing work?

Answer: Yes, plumbers must be registered or licensed for each class of plumbing work they intend to perform.

3. Can I do plumbing work on my own property?

Answer: Only unregulated work, such as replacing a tap washer, can be performed. Regulated plumbing work should be done by licensed persons.

4. What do I do if I am dissatisfied with a plumber's work?

Answer: In the first instance, contact the plumber directly to resolve the issue. If this fails, you can make a complaint to the state licensing authority such as VBA or QBCC. 

5. What happens if you are licensed to do plumbing in another state?

Answer: You can also transfer your plumbing license from another state with the Automatic Mutual Recognition scheme. AMR allows appropriately licensed practitioners to practice legally in any state or territory without lodging an application for an equivalent license if their license is valid and current.