Report unlicensed or unregistered plumber
In WA, under the Plumbers Licensing and Plumbing Standards Regulations, plumbing work can only be done by qualified people with a licence from the Plumbers Licensing Board. Plumbing work refers to work on water supply, sanitary, or drainage systems, including installation, alteration, repair, maintenance, testing, or replacement of pipes, fittings, fixtures, or apparatus used for water services. It excludes minor tasks like replacing a showerhead or clearing a blocked pipe, which homeowners can now legally do themselves under recent reforms.
Privacy Collection Notice
The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety (LGIRS) collects personal information for the purpose of:
- administering plumbing and gas licensing functions,
- assessing your application, renewal, registration, permit, and authorisation,
- verifying your identity, eligibility and technical qualifications,
- maintaining licensing and registration records
- undertaking compliance, inspection, investigation, and enforcement activities.
Your personal information is collected under the relevant provisions of the Plumbers Licensing Act 1995, and the Gas Standards Act 1972.
If you do not provide the requested information, LGIRS may be unable to process your application or provide the relevant licence or service.
Your information may be included in an online licence search, published in a register, shared within other departments at LGIRS, disclosed to relevant government agencies, regulatory bodies, local governments, and third parties where authorised or required by law, including for verification, compliance, enforcement, or audit purposes.
Please refer to the Privacy Policy on our website for more information about how we handle your personal information, how you can request access to or correction for the personal information we hold about you, and who to contact if you have a privacy enquiry or complaint.
Apply for a new plumbing tradesperson's licence
Renew a current licence
Plumbing Contractor Licence
Provisional tradesperson's licence
Apply for restricted plumbing permit
Already have a licence in Australia or New Zealand?
Show moreIf you are registered or licensed as a plumber elsewhere in Australia or New Zealand, and want to be registered in Western Australia, you may be able to apply for mutual recognition to get a WA licence or automatic mutual recognition to have your licence recognised in WA.
Free Information sessions for plumbers
Show moreFree information sessions are held for licensed plumbing contractors and tradespersons. These sessions will help to clarify plumbers' obligations under the Regulations, as well as provide an opportunity for you to meet other licensed plumbers and talk to the plumbing inspectors.
Further information is available here: Free information sessions for plumbers.
Frequently asked questions
Show moreWhat is plumbing work?
In WA, plumbing work can only be done by qualified people with a licence from the Plumbers Licensing Board. Plumbing work refers to work on water supply, sanitary, or drainage systems, including installation, alteration, repair, maintenance, testing, or replacement of pipes, fittings, fixtures, or apparatus used for water services. It excludes minor tasks like replacing a showerhead or clearing a blocked pipe, which homeowners can now legally do themselves under recent reforms.
Why do I need a licence?
Plumbing affects drinking water, wastewater, drainage, and public hygiene. Licensing ensures work is done safely and meets the required standards. Plumbers must follow the WA Plumbing Regulations and the Australian Plumbing Code (AS/NZS 3500). Licensing ensures only trained professionals work to these standards.
How do I apply for a licence?
You licence will need renewing every three (3) years. Courtesy renewal reminder notices are sent by email and SMS.
- Two and one months before expiry, a renewal reminder will be sent to you by email.
- On expiry, a final email will be sent, advising of any late lodgement processes that may apply.
Ensure your contact details are up to date to receive courtesy renewal reminders.
How do I replace a licence?
You can apply for a copy of your plumbing licence online. A replacement fee does apply.
You need:
- Your licence number
- Access to the email or mobile phone number registered with the Department
How do I cancel a licence?
Email plumbers@lgirs.wa.gov.au for further instructions.
How long will it take to process my application?
Current processing times are 6-8 weeks for a licence to be issued. You will receive email confirmation when your licence is granted.
Licence/registration search
Show moreThe online licence search can help you find a licensed plumber or check your licence status.
How to use the online licence search
Search by number: You can check if a licence number is still valid. Type the number into the field on the opening screen.
Search by type of licence: You can look for licensed people in your neighbourhood. Click on ‘Type’. Start typing in the licence type in the box eg. debt collector. Then type in either a name or location.
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