Emergency Plumbing FAQ's in Audley
Plumbing emergencies are stressful. These questions cover what Audley locals ask most often about emergency plumbing, dispatch, pricing, and what to expect when you call. If your question isn't answered here, call us, our phone line is open 24/7.
How quickly can a plumber reach Audley in an emergency?
Urgent jobs are sent out first from local dispatch points across Sydney. An ETA is provided when you book. Arrival timing depends on current bookings, traffic conditions, and the location within Audley. For properties near the Royal National Park boundary, access and parking constraints may affect arrival timing slightly, and we'll communicate any updates as the technician travels.
What counts as a plumbing emergency that needs immediate dispatch?
A plumbing emergency is any situation that creates immediate property damage risk, safety hazard, or loss of essential service. This includes burst pipes actively flooding, gas leaks, sewage backups, complete hot water failure in cold weather, or a blocked toilet that's the only one in the home. If you're unsure whether your situation is urgent, call and describe what's happening, we'll confirm whether immediate dispatch is needed or if it can be scheduled for the next available window.
Do you charge extra for after-hours or weekend emergency service calls?
Call-out fee status varies by job type and timing. Confirm the call-out fee when booking. Once onsite, we provide a flat-rate quote for the repair work before starting. The quote covers the job, not hourly rates, so you know the total cost upfront. For paying jobs, mention "web55" when booking for $55 off (limited to one per person).
What should I do immediately if a pipe bursts before the plumber arrives?
Turn off the water supply at the main shut-off valve (usually located at the front boundary near the water meter). If you can't locate the valve or it won't turn, call us immediately and we'll talk you through it. Move valuables and electronics away from the problem area. Don't attempt to repair the pipe yourself, wait for the licensed plumber to arrive, assess the damage, and make it safe.
How does upfront pricing work for emergency jobs if you don't know the fault yet?
The plumber assesses the fault onsite, explains what caused it, and provides a fixed-price quote before starting repair work. The quote covers the specific repair based on confirmed scope. You decide whether to proceed once cost and inclusions are explained. If inspection reveals additional faults that weren't visible initially, those are explained and quoted separately, we don't add work without your approval.
Can you get to properties within the Royal National Park after hours?
Yes, though access to some areas within the park may be affected by park gate hours and road closures. When you call, let us know your exact location so we can confirm access and provide an accurate ETA. For properties near the Hacking River or Audley Dance Hall precinct, limited parking may require coordination on arrival.
What happens if the emergency repair needs parts you don't have on the van?
Our vans are fully stocked with common parts for most emergency repairs. If a specialist part is needed, we'll explain the situation and provide options: temporary repair to make the system safe until the part arrives, or scheduling a return visit once the part is sourced. You'll know the plan before we leave, and there's no additional call-out fee for the return visit to complete the job.
Are your emergency plumbers licensed, insured for all types of work?
Yes. All attending plumbers are licensed in NSW (Plumber, Drainer & Gasfitter 305428C). We carry comprehensive Public Liability insurance (protects you if accidental property damage occurs during work) and Workers Compensation insurance (covers workplace injury matters). Compliance certificates are issued where required for gas and drainage work.
What's the difference between a temporary fix and a permanent repair?
A temporary fix makes the system safe and functional until a permanent repair can be completed, typically used when specialist parts are needed or when access is restricted. A permanent repair resolves the fault completely and is tested to confirm long-term durability. We explain which approach is needed based on the fault and your situation, and provide a quote for both if applicable. All permanent repairs are backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship.
Do older homes in Audley have common plumbing issues you see repeatedly?
Yes. Older homes near the Hacking River and heritage walking tracks often have aging clay or terracotta drainage pipes that are prone to tree root intrusion and cracking. Original copper water pipes can corrode over time, leading to pinhole leaks. Hot water systems in properties built before modern energy efficiency standards may be undersized or inefficient. During the first visit, we assess the age and condition of visible pipework and explain any patterns we notice that might affect future reliability.