PLUMBER COSTS IN WA

Call-out / first hour

$150–$250

Emergency call-outs higher

Hourly rate

$90–$180/hr

Licensed plumber

Tap replacement

$120–$280

Supply and install

Toilet replacement

$300–$700

Supply and install

Hot water system (electric)

$900–$1,800

Supply and install

Hot water system (gas)

$1,200–$2,500

Continuous flow, supply and install

Hot water system (heat pump)

$2,500–$4,500

Including rebates applied

Bathroom fit-out (labour)

$2,500–$6,000

Plumbing labour only

Gas line extension

$400–$1,200

Per connection point

Drain unblocking

$200–$600

Jet blasting extra

Perth's hard water

Perth has some of the hardest water in Australia, particularly in southern suburbs and the Hills. Hard water accelerates the degradation of hot water systems, tap washers and shower heads. If your hot water system is over 8 years old in a hard water area, a plumber will almost always recommend replacement rather than repair. In regional WA, water quality varies significantly — Geraldton and Kalgoorlie have particularly hard water.

Slab vs suspended floor

Most post-1970 Perth homes are built on concrete slabs. Running new pipes in a slab home means either trenching through concrete or running pipes through roof space. Suspended timber floor homes — common in Fremantle, Cottesloe and older Subiaco — are much easier and cheaper to replumb. Margaret River and the South West have a higher proportion of suspended floor homes than Perth metro.

Gas availability across WA

Natural gas is available throughout Perth metro but not all regional areas. Bunbury and Busselton have reticulated gas. Margaret River, Esperance, Kalgoorlie and most of the Kimberley do not — LPG bottles or heat pumps are the alternative. In Broome, Karratha and Port Hedland, plumber availability is significantly constrained and rates are 30-60% higher than Perth with extended wait times.

Water Corporation requirements

Any work on the water service connection must be notified to the Water Corporation of WA. Your plumber should handle this. A Notice of Work must be lodged before most plumbing work begins, and a Certificate of Compliance (Form 5) must be issued on completion — always request the Form 5.

What is your Plumbing Contractor Licence number?

Do you have a Gas Fitting Licence endorsement for gas work?

Will you provide a Certificate of Compliance (Form 5) on completion?

Is my water pressure adequate or does it need a pressure limiting valve?

What is the condition of my existing pipes?

Does my hot water system need replacing or can it be repaired?

Are there any access issues that will affect the price?

Will a Notice of Work be lodged before work starts?