Consumer FAQs

• Why should I use a Master Plumber?

  Master Plumbers are dedicated to their trade. They have access to an array of information, services, and events that are only available to members of Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland. This allows them to be one step ahead of others within the industry.

  Equipped with the latest information, technical knowledge, and skills, Master Plumbers are at the peak of their trade.

  Master Plumbers work under a code of conduct that ensures members of the public receive a service that is of the highest standard.

• Who is Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland?

  Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) is a not-for-profit organisation advancing the plumbing services industry through policy development, representation, and the provision of specialist training, advice, products, and services.

  MPAQ has been around for over 120 years and continues to serve the Queensland plumbing industry each day with the assistance, advice, and expertise required.

  If you are dissatisfied with the work conducted by a member of our organisation, give us a call. We have a complaints and disputes system that guarantees to assist with the mediation process before engaging with a legal representative.

• How do I know if my plumber is a Master Plumber?
  • Use our Find a Plumber search facility to look up the plumber. *NOTE: This is an optional facility that members must opt in to use and may not be an exhaustive list of all MPAQ members
  • Look for the MPAQ logo on their website, vehicles, or uniforms
  • Enquire with the plumber when you speak with them
  • Call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800 and chat with one of our friendly staff; they’ll be able to check the membership status of the plumber you are using
• How do I find a licensed plumber?

  You can read all about the best ways to make sure you are using a licensed plumber, drainer, or gasfitter and why it’s so important, here.

• What do I do if I have a dispute with my plumber, drainer, or gasfitter?

  MPAQ has a whole page dedicated to consumer complaints and disputes, which has been put together with the help of information directly from the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). The QBCC are the industry regulators for the plumbing industry. Click here to find out more.

• Should I accept the cheapest quote I can find?

  Not necessarily. We recommend that you obtain at least three estimates of work to be performed to compare prices, if there is a major difference in price it may be an indicator that one of the contractors providing a quote hasn’t been made aware of the exact works to be completed. It may also be worth asking your plumber why they have such a difference in price, whether it be much cheaper or much more expensive.

  Remember that the quote provided does not just cover the labour and the materials used in your job and that these costs are also calculated to contribute to the many expenses involved in running a plumbing or gasfitting business. Just as a grocery store doesn’t pass on wholesale pricing, neither can a plumber or gasfitter if they wish to maintain their livelihood and keep their business afloat.

  Unfortunately, in some cases, you get what you pay for and the cheapest option may not be the best option for you and your home/business.

• What paperwork (contract) should be in place before having a plumber commence work?

  If the work to be completed is under $3,300, you should get a written estimate or quote of the hourly rate, time to complete the job, and materials. Ideally, for both parties, there should be a written acceptance of the quote as this will minimise any disputes regarding the work and/or payment.

  For domestic building work over $3,300, your plumber must provide you with a contract. 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800 or contact the QBCC on 139 333.