What plumbing can I do myself in Victoria?

In Victoria, homeowners can replace tap washers, showerheads and like-for-like tapware. All other plumbing — drains, pipes, hot water, gas — requires a licensed plumber.

What happens if I do plumbing work without a licence in Victoria?

Unlicensed plumbing work is illegal in Victoria and can void your home insurance. The VBA can issue fines and order the work to be redone at your expense.

When should I always call a licensed plumber?

For any drain work, hot water system installation or repair, gas fitting, pipe work, or anything beyond replacing a simple tap fitting.

DIY vs Professional Plumbing: 5 Jobs You Should Leave to an Expert

Christopher Unwin
Apr 20, 2025
2 min read

Updated: May 3

5 Plumbing Jobs You Should Always Leave to a Licensed Professional

In Victoria, unlicensed plumbing work is illegal — not just inadvisable. Under the Building Act 1993 and the Plumbing Regulations 2018, most plumbing work must be carried out by or under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber. Here are the jobs that always need a licensed tradesperson, and why.

1. Any Gas Work

Gas appliance installation, gas line work, gas heater servicing, and gas leak repair must all be carried out by a licensed gas fitter. This isn't a grey area — unlicensed gas work is illegal, voids your home insurance, and can be fatal. In Victoria, gas fitters must hold Type A accreditation for appliance work. ATC Plumbing's gas fitters hold this accreditation under BPC Licence #50694.

2. Hot Water System Installation and Replacement

Installing, replacing, or relocating a hot water system requires a licensed plumber. This includes connection to gas or electrical supplies, setting the correct temperature (legally required to be at least 60°C in the tank to prevent legionella), and installing the pressure relief valve correctly. Incorrect installation can cause scalding, explosions, or void your manufacturer warranty.

3. Drainage Work Connecting to the Sewer

Any work on pipes that connect to the municipal sewer system requires a licensed plumber and, in most cases, a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). This includes drain relocation, new drain installation, and sewer connection work. Unlicensed drainage work can create public health risks and result in significant fines.

4. Pipe Work Inside Walls or Underground

Pipe work concealed inside walls or underground becomes permanently inaccessible once completed. It must be done right the first time, to the correct standards, with the correct materials. Unlicensed work in these locations is particularly risky because defects may not be apparent for years — by which time they've caused significant damage.

5. New Fixture Installations Requiring Rough-In Changes

Replacing a tap or a shower rose yourself is generally fine. But if the job requires changing pipe positions, adding new supply or waste connections, or relocating a fixture, that's licensed plumber territory. The DIY boundary is: like-for-like replacements using existing connections. Anything that changes the configuration of the pipe system requires a licence. Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758 if you're unsure.