How to get a NSW plumbing licence

Plumbing systems are intricate feats of design and engineering that are essential infrastructure in cities, towns, and regional centres throughout NSW. Today, plumbing services can include everything from installation to repair, cleaning and maintenance.

If you plan on performing any kind of draining, plumbing, or gas fitting work in New South Wales, you’ll first need to obtain a plumbing licence issued by Fair Trading. This is required regardless of the cost of the job and whether the work is in the residential, commercial, or industrial sector.

How do NSW plumbing licences work?

There are four types of plumbing licences available in NSW, each of which comes with its own rules and permissions.

Contractor licence

A contractor licence can be issued to individuals, companies, and partnerships for one, three, or five years. It permits the holder to contract and advertise to do the types of work described on their licence card.

Qualified supervisor certificate

A qualified supervisor certificate allows the holder to supervise and do the work described on their certificate. They are only issued to individuals, and this qualification does not permit you to contract for work.

Endorsed contractor licence

An endorsed contractor licence is issued to individuals who apply for a contractor licence and who also hold the qualifications and experience needed to be a qualified supervisor.

Tradesperson certificate

A tradesperson certificate permits the holder to do plumbing, drainage and gas fitting work with minimum supervision.

What types of plumbing jobs can I accept?

Licensed plumbers in NSW can only do the types of work described on their licence card. However, you can obtain and add additional classes to your active plumbing licence, so long as you have completed the required academic and work experience. These additional classes include:

• Water plumbing.
• Roof plumbing.
• LP gasfitting.

What qualifications do plumbers need?

To become a licensed plumber in NSW, you need to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing from a nationally accredited training institute, and an apprenticeship under the supervision of a licensed plumber.

You may also need to complete the Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (Operations stream). This certificate helps plumbers and gas fitters expand their skills in order to start their own plumbing business, or move into management roles.

Do I need plumber’s insurance?

As you begin your career journey, it’s important to consider insurance for plumbers*. From causing accidental damage to water pipes, to having your tools of the trade stolen, there are a number of risks that plumbers may face. At BizCover, we’re here to help protect your business. Give us a call on 1300 920 864 or try our online insurance platform to compare quotes from leading Aussie insurers today. It’s fast, easy and paperwork free.