Plumbers

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Plumbers are relied on to keep water, gas, and drainage systems working safely in homes, schools, businesses, and large-scale construction projects, a critical trade for emergency situations, new builds, renovations, and general house calls. From fixing a leaking tap to installing a new hot water service, to managing the complex fit-out of a high-rise building, plumbers are at the front line of the construction industry and keeping communities and small businesses running. IBIS World noted over 30,000 registered plumbing businesses across Australia in 2024.

It only takes one mistake for any one of those 30,000 plumbers to trigger a chain reaction of problems for their plumbing business. A single loose fitting can cause flooding damage worth tens of thousands of dollars. A burst pipe in a high-rise can damage multiple apartments and lead to expensive legal disputes. Gas installation errors can carry serious safety consequences. Unsupervised apprentices or subcontractors can go rogue, Even when you have done everything correctly, you could still be held responsible if something goes wrong after the fact.

Many plumbers in Australia see their insurance simply as a compliance matter, particularly those in Victoria who require liability insurance for their plumbing licence. However, it is more than that, it’s a risk management tool designed to protecting your livelihood from financial loss. Legal fees are always increasing, costs of repairing or replacing materials are also always increasing. Having the right cover in place gives you peace of mind that if a claim arises, you will not be left to pay for damages or legal defence costs out of your own pocket. Instead, your policy acts as a financial aid, keeping your business stable and allowing you to focus on revenue generating activities rather than being bogged down on admin work.

For plumbers in Victoria, insurance is a requirement for their licence. The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) requires all licensed plumbers to hold specific liability insurance to keep their licence active. This means you cannot trade without it. Councils, builders, and commercial clients also demand proof of insurance before you step foot on site. Without the correct documentation, you could be locked out of jobs or even fined for non-compliance. We receive calls every day for plumbers leaving this to the last minute, fueled by stress and fear of losing work. Plan ahead and start the discussion with your broker early.

That’s where Bluewell makes the process simple. We know time is money, and plumbers don’t have hours to spend chasing paperwork. When you arrange your policy through us, we move quickly to get your Certificate of Currency in your hands often on the same day or 24 hours so you can meet VBA requirements, prove compliance, and get started on the job without delay.

But our support doesn’t stop at getting you covered. Every year, we remarket your policy across a wide range of insurers to make sure your premium stays competitive. Your account manager is available all year to discuss your risks and insurance options. Insurers regularly adjust their pricing based on claims experience across the industry. If you stick with the same insurer year after year without review, you risk paying more than you need to or missing out on additional coverage provided by an alternative insurer. By having Bluewell re-check the market for you every year, you get the peace of mind that you’re not only compliant but also paying a fair price for your protection.

We take the time to understand how your plumbing business operates — whether you’re a sole trader, run a small crew, or manage a growing company. We then tailor your insurance so it fits your business and the risks you face. That means no surprises if you need to make a claim.

Our job is to keep you working confidently, covered correctly, and competitive on price. Whether it’s compliance for your licence, protection for your tools, or peace of mind for your reputation, Bluewell is here to back plumbers every step of the way.

Why Plumbers Need Insurance

Plumbing work is high-risk because water and gas systems affect health, safety, and property. Key risks include:

Water damage to homes, offices, or strata complexes.
Gas leaks from faulty installation or repair.
Injury to third parties such as customers or site visitors.
Damage to property while working in homes or construction sites.
Tool theft from vehicles or job sites.
Legal disputes over defective work or negligence.

Without plumbing liability insurance, you could be personally responsible for the cost of damages and legal bills. Many contracts, councils, and licensing boards will not even let you start work without a Certificate of Currency for plumbers public liability insurance.

Plumbers Insurance in Victoria – Licence Requirements

If you are a licensed plumber in Victoria, insurance is not optional. The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) requires plumbers to hold specific insurance to keep their licence active.

According to the VBA:

All licensed and registered plumbers in Victoria must be covered by the Plumbing Industry Professional Indemnity Insurance Scheme.

This scheme provides cover for defective plumbing work, trade practices liability, and legal defence costs, aimed to provide additional protection for the end consumer.

Public Liability Insurance is also required, with a minimum cover of $5 million, although many plumbers choose $10 million or $20 million limits to meet contract demands.

If you let your policy lapse, you risk losing your plumbing licence in Victoria. That is why arranging and maintaining plumbing insurance Victoria is critical for every contractor, sole trader, or plumbing company.

Core Covers for Plumbers

Plumbers Public Liability Insurance

The most important policy for any plumber. Covers injury to third parties and damage to property caused by your work. Required to maintain your licence in Victoria.

Tools and Equipment Insurance

Plumbing tools are expensive and essential for work. This cover insures them against theft or accidental damage.

Example Claim: Tools are stolen overnight from a van parked in a driveway. The policy pays to replace them so work can continue.

Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Most plumbers rely on utes, vans, or trucks. Commercial Motor Insurance covers accidents, theft, and damage to work vehicles.

Personal Accident and Illness Cover

For sole traders and contractors, an injury can mean no income. Personal accident cover pays a benefit if you are injured or ill and can’t work.

Business Pack Insurance

Combines multiple covers like property, glass, theft, and business interruption into one policy. Ideal for plumbing businesses with offices, depots, or warehouses.

Common Plumbing Claims

Damage while installing new pipes.
Gas installation error leading to leak.
Client slipping on wet surface during work.
Damage to expensive fixtures during installation.
Theft of tools from vehicles or sites.

Risk Management Tips for Plumbers

While insurance is there to step in when things go wrong, insurers also look closely at how you manage your risks, particularly when claims occur. Strong systems not only reduce the likelihood of accidents but can also help you keep premiums competitive and limit premium hikes after claims. Here are practical steps plumbers can take:

Document Every Job

Good record-keeping is one of the simplest but most effective tools in risk management. After each job, note the work carried out, the parts or materials installed, and any conversations about scope or limitations. Photos of finished work and problem areas can be invaluable if a dispute arises later. These records prove what you did, help defend you against claims, and show insurers you take accountability seriously.

Secure Tools and Vehicles

Tools are the lifeblood of a plumber’s trade, and unfortunately, they are also prime targets for theft. Invest in lockable toolboxes, vehicle alarms, immobilisers, and if possible, GPS tracking for high-value equipment. Always park vehicles in secure areas overnight, ideally under cover or in a locked yard. A thief can cost you thousands and take you off the tools for days, but strong security reduces risk of loss.

Keep Licences Current

In Victoria, plumbing is a licensed trade regulated by the VBA. Letting your licence lapse is not just a compliance issue, it can also leave you uninsured if an incident occurs while you are unlicensed. Set reminders for renewal dates and keep copies of your licence handy. Clients, builders, and insurers all expect proof of compliance.

Site Safety Practices

Every site presents different hazards, from slippery surfaces to exposed wiring or confined spaces. Simple steps such as using barriers, cones, and signage to keep clients and the public away from your work area go a long way. Wearing appropriate PPE, keeping pathways clear, and checking for hazards before starting work not only protect people but also show a commitment to professionalism and safety.

Subcontractor Checks

If you rely on subcontractors for larger projects, remember that your insurance is designed to protect you, not them. Always request and retain copies of their licence and insurance Certificates of Currency. If a subcontractor makes an error that causes damage, your insurer may seek to push liability back onto them. Without these checks, you could be left carrying the cost.

Why It Matters

Proper risk management policies and procedures reduce the frequency and severity of claims, which protects your reputation with clients and your standing with insurers. Fewer claims and strong safety practices often mean lower premiums over time. More importantly, it means fewer disruptions to your business, less time in disputes, and more time serving customers. By embedding risk management into your daily operations, you build a plumbing business that is stable, trustworthy, and resilient.

Why Work With Bluewell

At Bluewell, we have worked with thousands of plumbers in Australia since starting operating in 2010. We arrange cover for sole traders, small plumbing businesses, and larger contractors. Our team:

Provides fast Certificates of Currency so you can get on site without delays.
Knows the VBA requirements for Victoria plumbers insurance.
Works with leading insurers to offer tailored cover for your trade.
Supports you at claim time, not just at renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The VBA requires all licensed and registered plumbers to hold specific insurance, including public liability and professional indemnity under the VBA scheme.

The VBA requires at least $5 million. Many plumbers choose $10 or $20 million to meet commercial contract requirements.

You risk losing your plumbing licence in Victoria and may not be legally allowed to work.

No. Each subcontractor should hold their own public liability insurance. Always request their Certificates of Currency.

Yes, if the policy includes cover for theft from vehicles, usually with conditions such as locked vehicles and visible security.

Plumbing is a skilled trade, but even the best plumbers face risks. One claim can undo years of hard work if you are not protected. Bluewell makes plumbers public liability insurance and other key covers simple, affordable, and fast to arrange.

Get a tailored quote today and keep your plumbing business covered