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10 questions to ask before hiring a plumber
Before hiring a plumber, ask about their NSW licence number, insurance, whether the quote is fixed or an estimate, call-out and after-hours fees, who does the actual work, warranty on the job, expected timeframe, past local work, payment terms, and how they handle extra work found on site.
A few good questions at the start save a lot of grief at the end. You do not need to grill a plumber like a job interview, but knowing what to ask helps you spot who is honest and capable. Terry has been answering these same questions since 1986 under licence L10959, and he reckons a plumber who fields them happily is one worth booking.
The ten questions to ask
- What is your NSW licence number? Plumbing in NSW must be done by a licensed person. A genuine plumber gives their number without hesitation, and you can verify it on the NSW Fair Trading website. Terry's is L10959.
- Are you insured? Public liability insurance protects your home if something goes wrong during the job. It is a fair thing to confirm before work starts.
- Is the quote fixed or an estimate? Knowing this up front means the final invoice does not shock you. A fixed quote is clear; an estimate can move, so ask what could change it.
- What is the call-out fee, and is after-hours extra? Call-out and after-hours charges vary. Terry works Monday to Saturday, with after-hours and emergency work available at a fee, so it is worth asking so you are not surprised.
- Will you personally do the work, or send someone else? With a solo operator like Terry, the person you speak to is the person who turns up. With bigger outfits, ask who actually attends and whether they are licensed.
- Is there a warranty on the work? Good plumbers stand behind their repairs. Ask what is covered and for how long, and get it in writing where you can.
- How long will the job take? A realistic timeframe helps you plan, especially if the water needs to be off for part of it.
- Have you done this kind of work locally before? Experience with similar jobs in Berala, Auburn, Lidcombe or the inner west means fewer surprises. Local knowledge counts.
- How and when do I pay? Clear payment terms and a proper invoice are signs of a real business. Be wary of cash-only pressure with no paperwork.
- What happens if you find extra work once you start? Sometimes opening up a wall or drain reveals more. Ask how they handle that, so you are consulted on price before extra work goes ahead.
Why these questions work
Each question does a job. Licence and insurance protect you legally. Quote, fees and payment questions protect your wallet. Warranty, timeframe and extra-work questions protect you from surprises. Together they paint a quick, honest picture of the plumber in front of you.
Terry keeps his answers simple and straight because that is how he likes to be treated too. If you are in Western Sydney or the inner west and want a licensed local who will answer every one of these without dodging, call Terry on 0415 274 542.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the most important question to ask a plumber?
- The licence question. Plumbing in NSW must be done by a licensed person, so asking for their NSW licence number and checking it on the Fair Trading website is the single best protection you have. Terry's number is L10959.
- Should I always get a fixed quote?
- A fixed quote gives you the most certainty, but some jobs can only be estimated until the plumber opens things up. Ask whether the quote is fixed or an estimate, and what could change it, so the final invoice does not surprise you.
- Is it rude to ask a plumber about insurance?
- Not at all. A professional expects it. Public liability insurance protects your home if something goes wrong, and a good plumber will confirm they carry it without being offended by the question.
- Why ask about extra work found on site?
- Because opening a wall or drain sometimes reveals more than expected. Asking how they handle it up front means you get consulted on price before any extra work goes ahead, rather than finding it on the final bill.
- Do after-hours plumbing jobs cost more?
- Usually yes. Emergency and after-hours work generally costs more than a standard weekday visit. Terry works Monday to Saturday with after-hours and emergency work available at a fee, so it is worth asking about the charge before you book.
Related services
Need a hand from a real plumber?
Terry's been sorting plumbing across Berala and Western Sydney since 1986. Call 0415 274 542 for a straight answer and a fixed price.
NSW Licence L10959 · 40+ years experience