What is a Plumber?

A plumber is a licensed tradesperson who installs and maintains water, drainage, and gas systems in residential and commercial buildings. For owner builders, plumbers are essential for connecting all plumbing services in line with local council and state regulations.

What Does a Plumber Do?

Your plumber will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a plumber will:

  • Install pipes for hot and cold water
  • Connect drainage and sewer systems
  • Install taps, sinks, toilets, and showers
  • Fit gas lines where required
  • Connect stormwater and roof drainage
  • Ensure all plumbing complies with the National Construction Code and QLD-specific standards


A plumber’s role is critical to making sure your home’s water, waste, and gas systems are installed correctly and safely.

Tip: Confirm Your Inclusions

Before you request quotes, review your building plans and specifications to confirm exactly what is included in your plumbing scope. Items like hot water units, tapware, and gas connections can vary between quotes and may not always be included.

What Makes a Good Plumber?

Look for plumbers who:

  • Hold a current Queensland Plumbing and Drainage Licence
  • Have experience with similar owner builder projects
  • Are familiar with local council requirements
  • Provide clear, itemised quotes that match your plans
  • Can commit to your timeline and availability


It’s also a good sign if your plumber is open to explaining their quote and answering your questions.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get accurate quotes from plumbers, you’ll need:

  • Finalised construction drawings
  • Plumbing fixture and fitting schedules
  • Site plan with connection points
  • Any specific requirements (e.g. solar hot water, rainwater tank)

Glossary

This glossary explains each step in the plumbing process for your build. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep in your project, this guide will help you understand what’s happening at each stage and what to expect from your plumber.

Term Definition
Procure Getting quotes and choosing a plumber for your job.
Camera Inspection of Pipes Using a small camera to check pipes for blockages or damage.
Internal & External Drainage Works (incl. OSD/ sewer encasement) (Basement) Laying pipes inside and outside the building to manage waste and rainwater, including basement
Drainage Works Installing underground pipes to handle rainwater and waste, connecting to council systems.
Rough-In Works Running pipes for water, gas, and waste inside walls and floors before they are covered.
Install - Downpipes & Balcony Floor Waste Fitting pipes that take rainwater from the roof and balconies to the drainage system.
Final Fit-Off Installing taps, toilets, sinks, and hot water systems at the end of the build.

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to hire a plumber directly or can my builder organise it?

    As an owner builder, you are responsible for organising all trades, including plumbing. Build Buddy helps you understand the process and track your quotes, but the contract will be directly between you and your plumber.

  • Can I do some of the plumbing work myself?

    In Queensland, all plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed plumber. DIY plumbing is not permitted, except for minor maintenance tasks like replacing tap washers.

  • What plumbing approvals are required in QLD?

    You’ll typically need a Form 4 (Notifiable Work) submitted by your plumber. For larger or more complex plumbing installations, additional council approvals may apply.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.