A typical Wollongong home’s plumbing consists of an intricate system of pipes and fixtures to provide clean water, safe disposal of wastes and much more. As plumbing systems involve personal safety, their design, implementation, and maintenance are all subject to regulation.
Whether you have a gurgling sink, blocked toilet, or poor pressure, you will need a qualified and licensed professional. And this is where a trusted plumber comes into play. Plumbers are skilled and specialised trades, experienced in all facets of domestic water, gas and waste systems.
But don’t just hire any plumber – hire a great plumber. A plumber who will work to the highest of standards, doing so safely, effectively, and relatively affordably. And the best plumbers do it properly in the first place; avoiding expensive disasters further down the track.
We have taken the liberty of rounding up the finest plumbers in Wollongong, along with some helpful tips to get you on your way. Read on below.
What makes a great plumber?
Great plumbers are adept and well-rounded trades, navigating water, gas and waste systems with ease. They are masters in diagnostics, knowing where, what, and how, to resolve issues as efficiently and effectively as possible. Here is what we think separates the best plumbers from the rest:
- Qualified, licensed & insured. When vetting your plumber this triple barrel of credentials should be at the top of your list. Firstly, the best plumbers have completed formal training and have years of experience. Your plumber must also hold a state government issued plumbing license. Finally, ensure your plumber is covered by appropriate insurances such public liability, workers compensation or contracts cover.
- Industry accreditation. A great way to assess your shortlisted plumber is to check on their industry accreditation. In the Illawarra, the Master Plumbers Association NSW is the core industry body.
- Quality workmanship. Even the best products will fall short without careful hands and quality workmanship. Great plumbers believe in using only the best products and parts from reputable suppliers. As such, look for plumbers who offer guarantees on both products and their work.
- Professional & transparent. The best plumbers are consummate professionals, wonderful communicators, and are upfront about services and charges. With wet infrastructure being vital to the safe occupation of any building, seek a plumber that you know will get the job done. So, look for glowing customer reviews and personal recommendations as these are often great indicators.
- Swift service. Plumbing problems are notorious for emerging out of hours. Around the clock access and extended hours of operation help to swiftly address plumbing issues. Regardless of whether your plumbing needs are planned or a result of an emergency, seek a plumber with a fantastic record in punctuality, and prompt execution.
Important essentials to check before engaging a plumber
To ensure quality and professionalism a couple of minutes spent checking the following will help to give you peace of mind; and ensure you avoid a dodgy plumber.
- Confirm the provider runs a registered business through the Australian Business Registration website.
- Ensure the provider holds an appropriate plumbing license.
- Check that the contractor holds a membership with a core industry body.
- Verify the providers public liability insurance and level of cover.
- Be clear on contracted inclusions, terms, and conditions.
The best plumbers in Wollongong
Region Illawarra’s editorial team has compiled a comprehensive list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best in Wollongong series, each business needs to have maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google and Facebook, and have plenty of positive reviews.
Illawarra Plumbing & Drainer
With 15+ years of industry experience behind them, the professionals at Illawarra Plumbing & Drainer are proud to provide the very best to hundreds of clients throughout the Illawarra region.
This qualified team understands that every customer's needs are different and takes a personalised approach to every job.
Illawarra Plumbing & Drainer's best practices has awarded them: Best Tradie Winner (2020), Outstanding Business Person of the Year Finalist and Small Business Finalist (2021), and Australian Small Business Champion Finalist (2022).
WillPlumb Plumbing Services
WillPlumb Plumbing Services has supported local families, builders and businesses with a vast range of skills for over 15 years.
Will and his apprentice Nathan value integrity above all. They show up on time and complete every job to an impeccable standard, treating their clients with respect and professionalism. 24/7 callouts are also available for emergencies.
WillPlumb covers the entire Wollongong region alongside greater Illawarra, South Coast, Southern Highlands, Campbelltown and McArthur areas.
Ruttley Services
Reliable, responsive, reassuring... That's Ruttley.
Backed by 18 years' experience, this company also provides a comprehensive blog to educate and inform customers about planning, prevention and safety.
Members of the team devote themselves to complete transparency and happily work with clients' needs and budgets. This is supported by fixed rates and options for interest-free finance.
Ruttley Services is your turnkey solution for domestic and commercial plumbing, from general maintenance to emergency repairs, anywhere in the Illawarra region.
Curran Plumbing
Introducing: Curran Plumbing. This award-winning, family-owned business has been around since 1991.
Over the last three decades Curran Plumbing has built an impressive reputation for reliable, cost-effective service.
The team offers an innovative Service Partner Plan designed to save time, money and stress. For under $15 a month, clients in Wollongong can take advantage of benefits such as priority service, free preventative check-ups and discounts on repairs and emergency fees.
If you’re looking for other tradie services in Wollongong, you might like our articles on the best electricians, best appliance repair services, best toilet repair specialists, best electric hot water installers Wollongong and its surrounds has to offer.
Your experience with plumbers in Wollongong
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback on plumbers in Wollongong. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the plumbers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to know when you need a plumber?
You need a plumber whenever you’re experiencing a plumbing problem that you can't easily identify or legally fix. Some examples include having no water, no hot water, low water pressure, dripping taps, slow drainage, an overflowing toilet, and if you can smell sewerage or your water heater is sweating.
How much does a plumber cost?
How much a plumber costs depends on the nature of the work and how long it takes to complete. Generally, you can expect to pay a service fee which ranges from $50-$150, plus an hourly rate of between $100-$150 per hour for labour only. Should you require emergency or out of hours assistance these rates could be higher.
What questions should I ask my plumber?
There are a number of questions you should ask your plumber before contracting them for work. Be sure to ask your plumber if they have the proper insurance, license and certifications, whether their quote includes labour and materials, whether they charge a flat rate or by the hour, if they will be carrying out the work personally, what payment arrangements they require, and if they have a plumbing specialty, experience and references.
How should I prepare for a plumber visit?
You should prepare for a plumber to visit by making sure you provide all the relevant information ahead of time, locating your main shut-off valve, making sure the work area is clean and clutter-free, and that any pets or children are safe. It is also worthwhile checking for any other repair needs. If several issues need to be addressed, it may be more cost-effective to have your plumber all of them at once.
What are the most common plumbing problems?
The most common plumbing problems include leaking faucets, low water pressure, slow drainage, running toilets, blocked toilets, blocked drains and no hot water.