Thinking of tackling some plumbing yourself? How hard can it be? Before you head to the hardware store and fire up YouTube, here are 9 reasons a licensed plumber is worth every dollar.

DIY plumbing often ends up costing more in the long run, and in Queensland most of it isn't legal anyway. Beyond the flooding disasters, a pro saves you time, money and stress.

C10 - Rough In Stage Inspection Checklist

$59.00 AUD

Last updated 28 Oct 2026 · Revision 3 · Free updates for life

Checklist Type: Minor

Form Factor: Fillable, print-ready PDF (A4, 27 pages)

When to use: Rough-in stage: after services are installed, before cladding and linings go on

An 84-point rough-in checklist. Check plumbing, electrical, gas, solar, air conditioning and data after every trade has finished, before the insulation and linings hide them.

Preview C10

See all our checklists

Buy C10 – $59
  1. It's licensed work: In Queensland, almost all plumbing and drainage work must legally be done by a QBCC-licensed plumber and comply with the Plumbing Code of Australia (NCC Volume Three) and AS/NZS 3500. Unlicensed DIY work can be illegal, void your insurance and fail inspection.
  2. Proper tools and equipment: Plumbers invest in the right tools for the job, from pipe cutters and drain augers to drain cameras, so it's done right the first time. Without them, DIY plumbing means frustration and second-rate results.
  3. Efficiency and time savings: Experienced plumbers diagnose and fix problems quickly, saving you hours or days of frustration and keeping your project on schedule.
  4. Warranties and guarantees: Reputable plumbers back their work with warranties on parts and labour. DIY work gives you none of that and can void manufacturer warranties.
  5. Extensive training: Plumbers train for years in water supply, drainage, gas and hot water systems, so they're prepared for whatever turns up.
  6. Safety: Plumbing work can be hazardous, from water pressure and hot water systems to gas and hazardous materials. Plumbers know how to isolate supplies, work safely and install equipment correctly.
  7. High-Quality Work: Certified plumbers ensure that installations and repairs meet building codes and pass inspections. This guarantees the job is done properly, sparing you from the expenses and hassles of redoing shoddy DIY work.
  8. Long-term solutions: A good plumber fixes the root cause, not just the symptom. They've seen everything from leaking taps to burst pipes, which prevents repeat problems and costs.
  9. You don't have to deal with the messy stuff! Literally. I once asked a plumber friend, "What's the worst job you've done?" expecting a wild answer, as he's young and adventurous. He said, "I had to repair a sewer main where the sewage was under pressure and we couldn't relieve it from the pipe. As soon as we cut into it, the sewage sprayed all over me until we finished!" Pay a plumber and leave the sewage to someone else 😄

In short: a licensed plumber gives you compliance, safety, quality and a warranty.

Building new? Check the plumber's rough-in work before the walls are lined with my C10 Rough-In checklist.