This data is a positive indicator that the vast majority of Victorian plumbers do the right thing and are compliant in their work practices.
The data also shows that a small minority of repeat offenders cause the most harm to consumers and the community.
Of the 3,428 plumbing complaints received by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) in the two-year period from 2022 to 2023, the most frequent issues raised were non-compliant plumbing work and a failure to lodge a compliance certificate.
If a complaint is substantiated by credible evidence, the VBA will take action to achieve compliance. Those plumbers will also be subject to increased monitoring by the VBA, as they may represent an ongoing compliance risk to consumers.
Licenced plumbers are reminded of their obligations to supervise apprentices and registered plumbers working under them, and to ensure any work carried out by them or plumbers under their supervision is compliant.
As a harms-based regulator, the VBA supports plumbers through education and guidance and directs its resources to areas that pose the greatest risk to the health and safety of building occupants and consumers.
