Plumbing Prices List for 2023

If you’re looking for some insights into plumbing prices for 2023, you’re in the right place. We’re here to spill the beans on how much plumbers like you charge for various services. But before we do, let’s just state the obvious point and say that the prices we’re about to list are not definitive - you shouldn’t use them as the definitive answer to how much you should charge your clients for your services. Your business, your clients, your staff, and your jobs are unique, and like every tradie, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to your pricing queries. Instead, we want to provide a guide on a plumbing prices list so you can see what other plumbers are charging and, more importantly, why.

So, now that we’ve got that out the way, let's jump right in and talk numbers!

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‍How much does a plumber cost?

As a plumber, particularly if you’re just starting a plumbing business, one of the burning questions on your mind is probably, "How much should I charge my clients?" Well, we've got some insights to share. While plumbing prices lists can vary based on factors like location and project complexity, here’s a general idea to get started.

Regional breakdown of plumbing prices

When it comes to plumbing prices, location plays a significant role. Let's take a look at the average hourly rates for plumbers in Australia and New Zealand. Keep in mind that these figures are estimates and can fluctuate based on specific circumstances.

In Australia, the average plumbers price list ranges from $80 to $120 an hour. However, for more complex projects, such as bathroom installations or fixing broken pipes, you can charge even more. Remember, these prices can vary based on your location within Australia.

In New Zealand, plumbing prices are quite similar. The average plumbers price list states that a plumber typically falls between $75 and $120 an hour. However, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on your specific location in the country.

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How much do plumbers charge for different services?

Now that we have a general idea of hourly rates, let's explore how much plumbers charge for specific services. From repairing leaking taps to unclogging drains and everything in between, here's a breakdown of average prices you can consider.

Repairing leaking taps

When it comes to those pesky dripping taps, the average plumbing prices list states a charge of around $80 to $150, depending on the complexity of the repair.

Unclogging drains

For unclogging drains, prices can range from $100 to $250, depending on the severity of the blockage and the kind of tools you’ll need to unblock them.

Fixing broken pipes

Fixing broken pipes is no small feat, so it's only fair to charge accordingly. Prices for this service usually range from $150 to $400, depending on the complexity and location of the repair. If the broken pipes are located in a hard-to-reach area or if extensive excavation is required, the cost may be higher due to the additional labour and equipment involved. Also, if the pipes are made of rare or speciality materials, the cost of replacement or repair can also increase.

Installing appliances

If you're installing appliances like dishwashers or water filters, you can typically charge around $150 to $450, considering the time and effort involved. If the installation requires additional plumbing work, such as extending or modifying water and drainage lines, the cost may increase. Also, if the space doesn't have the necessary electrical connections for the appliance, you may need to bring in a sparkie, which would add to the overall cost.

Bathroom installation

For bathroom installations, your charges can vary widely depending on the scope of the project. On average, you can charge anywhere between $2,000 and $30,000, depending on factors like the number of fixtures, complexity of plumbing, and materials used. And when you’re quoting your client, it pays to have a conversation about unexpected issues or complications that can arise during the renovation process, which could also impact the final cost. That’s why you should always advise your clients to set aside a contingency budget to account for any unforeseen expenses.

Water heaters

When installing or repairing water heaters, prices can range dramatically depending on the type of water heater and the complexity of the job.

For a standard electric storage water heater installation, the cost of the job can range from $800 to $1,500. This typically includes the price of the water heater itself, installation labour, materials, and any electrical connections you need.

For a gas storage water heater, the cost may be slightly higher, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. Gas water heaters require an extra gas line installation, which can contribute to the increased cost. Of course, if you’re replacing one, you won’t need to run a new line, so the price won’t need to be as high.

And for your fancier or specialised water heaters, such as instant or solar-powered systems, the cost can be higher due to the complexity of the installation and the higher price of the equipment. These water heater installations can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the specific requirements and the brand/model chosen.

Notice a theme here? You got it - your plumbing prices vary for every job every time based on the circumstances. No, we’re not going to leave you high and dry - we do actually have some great advice about how you can begin standardising your prices and quoting fairly while still making a decent income.

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Factors that influence a plumbing prices list

Now that we've discussed the plumbers price lists for various services, let's explore some factors that can influence your costs as a plumber. These factors can help you determine the right pricing for your services and ensure that you're compensated fairly.

Certification/license

This is an easy one. Plumbers with higher certifications or licenses can, and should, charge higher rates due to their specialised skills and knowledge. While your clients may baulk at a bigger quote than the fresh-faced rookie who beat you to the quote, most clients will value the assurance that comes with hiring a seasoned professional.

Experience

As the saying goes, "Experience is the best teacher." Plumbers with more years of experience may charge higher rates because they have honed their skills and gained valuable insights over time.

Project complexity

The complexity of a plumbing project can greatly impact pricing. Jobs that require specialised equipment, extensive troubleshooting, or a lot of planning may charge higher rates due to the additional time and expertise involved.

Materials and supplies

The cost of materials and supplies needed for a project will also influence pricing. If you get your say, you’ll likely choose parts and hardware that are affordable, easy to install, and of great quality. But sometimes, as we know, the client knows best. If they’re selecting costly materials or parts and hardware that are time-consuming to install, it's reasonable to charge accordingly to cover these costs.

Market demand

Local market conditions can impact pricing. If there's high demand for plumbing services in your area, you may have more flexibility to set higher rates. But on the other hand, in areas with lower demand, competitive pricing and implementing some plumbing marketing strategies may be necessary to attract clients.

Finding the right balance between fair pricing and profitability is essential for running a successful plumbing business. Take these factors into consideration when determining your rates, and be sure to stay up-to-date with industry trends and market conditions by regularly reading plumbing blogs.

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Provide paperless plumbing quotes with AroFloGO

Now that we've covered the ins and outs of a plumbing prices list, let's talk about streamlining your business processes. As a plumber, you want to provide your clients with accurate and professional quotes in a timely manner. That's where AroFloGO comes in.

Yes, here comes the shameless plug. But there’s a freebie in it for you, so read on!

In a nutshell, here’s what we want to say: streamlining your administration makes it so much easier to set your prices effectively. If you can track your jobs, factoring in materials, time spent, how many people it took to do the job, and what sort of obstacles you regularly come up against, you’ll be in a far better position to set your plumbing prices geared to profit.

AroFloGO is a user-friendly and efficient business software that can help you provide paperless plumbing quotes with ease. With AroFloGO, you can create professional-looking quotes on the go, without the hassle of paper and manual calculations.

Our software allows you to create customisable templates, add pricing details, and generate quotes in a matter of minutes. You can even include your branding, terms and conditions, and any special instructions for your clients. Plus, AroFloGO integrates seamlessly with other AroFlo features, such as invoicing and job management, making your workflow smoother than ever.

So, why waste time on paperwork when you can impress your clients with professional, paperless quotes? Give AroFloGO a try (here’s your freebie - our software is free to try!) and experience the convenience and efficiency plumbing apps bring to your plumbing business.

Understanding plumbing prices is essential for any tradesperson. By considering factors like location, project complexity, and market conditions, you can set fair pricing for your services. Remember to stay informed about industry trends, adapt your rates as needed, and utilise tools like AroFloGO to streamline your business processes. Happy plumbing!

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