The assumption is that a plumber is a plumber. Nothing could be further from the truth.

You see, there are eight main plumbing classes and six specialised classes and your plumber must be registered with relevant authorities to legally carry out work within these classes.

Put it simply. You need to pick the right plumber for your project!

So here are some of the different classes:

Drainage plumbing work

This is any work (the construction, installation or repair, etc.) on any part of a below-ground stormwater or sanitary drainage systems. It also includes testing, commissioning or the design of those parts.

Fire protection plumbing work

This is any work (the construction, installation, repair, etc.)
on any part of the water service used for fire fighting like a fire hydrant or hose reel. It also includes testing, commissioning or the design of those parts.

Gas-fitting plumbing work

This includes the construction, installation, repair, replacement or alteration of any pipe, appliance, control or fitting part that is involved with the supply or use of gas. There are some restrictions here (i.e. specialised gas fitting work) that you should be aware of.

Irrigation (non-agricultural) plumbing work

This includes work with any part of an irrigation system on the property, including any incidental or associated design work. It does not include irrigation systems used for the purposes of agriculture.

Mechanical services plumbing work

Any work (the construction, installation or repair, etc.)
on a mechanical heating, cooling or ventilation system in a building including single head split systems, ducts, flues, tanks, regulators, etc.

Roofing (stormwater) plumbing work

Roofing (stormwater) work is any work (the construction, installation, repair, testing etc.) on any roof covering, flashing or roof drainage system for collection or disposal of stormwater.

Sanitary work

This involves connecting sanitary fixtures and appliances, such as toilets, to a disposal system a septic tank. This doesn’t include water supply work or drainage work.

Water supply work

This involves work with any hot or cold-water service.

Think about this the next time you call a plumber.
Hopefully, this has opened your eyes to the diverse range of skills that different plumbers possess!

By all means, this list is not comprehensive, and laws change often so use this article as a guide only.

Bottom line, always use a licensed plumber.