How to Choose a Plumber in South Africa
- PlumbPal Team
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Introduction:
Knowing how to choose a plumber in South Africa can save you thousands and protect your home. There are five key things every homeowner needs to check before booking anyone.
Choosing a plumber isn’t just about who’s the cheapest or who arrives first. If you hire the wrong oke — unregistered, unskilled, or just plain lazy — you’ll be paying twice.
And worse? Insurance might not cover the damage if the job wasn’t done by a compliant, professional plumber.
This guide will teach you how to choose a plumber in South Africa.
How to Choose a Plumber in South Africa
1. Don’t Hire a Plumber Who’s Not Registered
In South Africa, a real plumber must be registered with the PIRB (Plumbing Industry Registration Board) or a similar accredited body. If they’re not registered — they’re not legally allowed to issue a COC (Certificate of Compliance), especially for geysers, drain replacements, or bathroom renovations.
Ask them straight:
"Are you registered and can you issue a compliance certificate for this type of job?"
No certificate = no comeback when shit goes wrong. Literally.
2. A Professional Plumber Must Show You the Work
It’s your home — don’t let anyone work in secret. Insist that your plumber:
Shows you the old part they removed
Explains why it failed
Shows you the new part BEFORE they install it
Takes before and after photos (and shares them with you)
This isn’t overkill — it’s accountability.
3. You Deserve a Written Guarantee
A real plumber backs his work. Always ask for:
A written guarantee for the work done
Proof of warranty on parts installed
If they hesitate or make excuses, you’re dealing with a “fly-by-night” chancer — not a professional.
4. The Plumber Must Explain What Was Done — And Why
You shouldn’t have to guess what happened. A true pro plumber will:
Walk you through the job in plain English (or Afrikaans if you prefer 😉)
Explain the issue
Explain the fix
Let you ask questions without making you feel stupid
You’re the client. You’re paying. You deserve to understand what was done.
5. Price Means Nothing Without Value
The cheapest plumber isn’t the best. The most expensive one might be ripping you off. What you’re looking for is the right-value plumber:
Registered ✅
Transparent ✅
Explains clearly ✅
Offers paperwork ✅
Doesn’t hide behind jargon or WhatsApp quotes
Get the Full Smart Homeowner Plumber Checklist
Before you book anyone — download the full printable checklist from PlumbPal.online.
Use it to:
Ask the right questions
Spot red flags
Protect yourself from bullshit repairs and inflated invoices
Final Word
It’s your home. You pay the bill. You take the risk when things go wrong.
So why let just anyone touch your plumbing?
Be smart. Be in control. Be informed — with PlumbPal at your side.
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