What is a Plumbing Specialist (Sewer Encasement Works)?

A Plumbing Specialist licensed for drainage works carries out critical site services such as sewer encasement. This process involves encasing a section of sewer pipe — typically where a new building crosses or comes close to an existing sewer line — in concrete to protect it from structural loads or soil movement.

What does a Plumbing Specialist do?

Your Plumbing Specialist will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Plumbing Specialist completing sewer encasement will:

  • Review your site plans and Sydney Water or local authority requirements
  • Excavate the trench to expose the existing sewer main
  • Form and pour concrete around the required pipe section to the correct depth and width
  • Coordinate inspections with your Water Servicing Coordinator (WSC) or local authority
  • Backfill and compact the trench according to specification


They ensure your build complies with asset protection standards and won’t damage critical underground infrastructure.

Barry's Toolbox

If you need sewer encasement, it must be completed (and inspected) before your slab can go down. Don't let this become a last-minute hold-up — book your plumber as early as possible.

What to look for in a Plumbing Specialist

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Licensing: Must be licensed for drainage works and approved by Sydney Water (if applicable)
  • Sewer encasement experience: Choose someone familiar with local authority specifications
  • Inspection coordination: Should handle the inspection process and provide a works-as-executed (WAE) drawing
  • Timeliness: Confirm availability that fits your construction timeline — encasement is time-critical
  • Insurance: Ensure they carry public liability and workers’ compensation insurance

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Plumbing Specialists for sewer encasement works, you’ll need:

  • Site address and approved plans (especially slab and drainage layout)
  • Water Servicing Coordinator (WSC) requirements or asset protection approval (if issued)
  • Sewer diagrams or peg-out results showing pipe location and depth
  • Your construction start date (especially slab prep timing)

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

  • What is sewer encasement and why is it needed?

    It’s a method of protecting existing sewer pipes with a concrete surround if your build crosses over or gets too close to them. It prevents structural damage or service interruption.

  • Who determines if encasement is required?

    Your Water Servicing Coordinator (WSC) or hydraulic consultant usually advises this based on pipe proximity and depth.

  • How long does sewer encasement take?

    Usually 1–3 days depending on depth, access, and inspection scheduling — but delays can occur if inspections aren’t booked early.

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.