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Plumbing is a major industry in Melbourne and all around Victoria. Commercial and domestic plumbing is a priority for property owners looking to ensure the health, safety and comfort of their family, employees or guests.
Because of the saturation of plumbers in Melbourne, it can be difficult to choose which one is best for the job you need. There are so many to pick from– all with a range of experience and qualifications. Different plumbers can also have quite different price points and fee structures, which can understandably influence your decision-making process.
While the necessity of some plumbing company characteristics are negotiable, there is one that is not: All plumbers you hire should always give a Certificate of Compliance for gas work , underground sewer drainage work , and all work over $750.00, so that you can feel secure in their knowledge and ability. Even if it costs you a bit more, this is one necessity that cannot be overlooked.
What is a Certificate of Compliance?
This refers to a certification for licensed plumbers, distributed by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). It guarantees that they work they do complies with all relevant plumbing standards, rules and regulations within the state. On completion of certain plumbing work, licensed plumbers must send compliance certificates to both the person getting the work done and the VBA. Failure to do so can result in harsh penalties for the plumber as well as potential detriments for you.
Why Do Certificates of Compliance Matter?
To work as a plumber in Victoria, one must either be licensed or registered through the VBA, or currently be in training under the guidance of a licensed plumber. Certificates of Compliance, are mandatory for plumbers licensed through the VBA (and for good reason).
Licensed plumbers exist within the top tier of this hierarchy. It is implied that they hold more knowledge than registered or training plumbers. To uphold this standard, licensed plumbers must be well-trained in any sort of plumbing job they may face before they are able to practice.
Certificates of Compliance are to be given for work within the following categories:
- Drainage
- Fire Protection
- Gasfitting
- Irrigation (Non-agricultural)
- Mechanical Service
- Roofing (Stormwater)
- Sanitary
- Water Supply
- Hot Water
Although these are the primary areas that are assessed, Certificates of Compliance are also given for work in appliance servicing and conversion, gasfitting work (standard and advanced), refrigerated air conditioning work and backflow prevention.
If you need any of these jobs completed, a licensed plumber ready to supply and lodge a Certificate of Compliance should always be the one to take it on. There are many certified plumbers in the Melbourne area, including the entire team at O’Shea Plumbing.
Avoid Faulty Workmanship
The main benefit for home or business owners of hiring certified plumbers is to reduce the risk of faulty workmanship. This is important regardless of the circumstances, but is especially relevant on any large, time-consuming or expensive project. Certificates of Compliance are mandatory for any plumbing job in Victoria that costs over $750.
If you have hired a plumber for a major job and they are hesitant to lodge a Certificate of Compliance, this should be seen as a significant red flag. In any case like this, we recommend that you reconsider the company you are using and look for someone who agrees to maintain proper legislative practices.
Hiring a plumber who fails to comply to state regulations can put you and your property at risk. It is not worth it to save a bit of money and hire a dodgy plumber. Instead, invest in a company you can trust, such as O’Shea Plumbing!
Our licensed plumbers are fully certified and highly dependable. No matter what sort of plumbing job you need done, we are the optimal team to handle it. Call us today for a quote on your next project.