Plumbing FAQ's in Gladesville
Below are answers to common questions from Gladesville residents and property managers. If your question isn't covered, call 1800 349 338 and our team will provide specific advice for your situation.
Do you service all of Gladesville?
Fixed Today Plumbing services the entire Gladesville area within the 2111 postcode, including Huntleys Point, Tennyson Point, and the Gladesville Bridge precinct. We dispatch from West Sydney and North Shore hubs, with arrival timing affected by traffic conditions on Victoria Road and the Gladesville Bridge, particularly during weekday peak periods.
How quickly can you get to Gladesville for an emergency?
Emergency jobs are dispatched immediately, with the nearest available licensed technician allocated from local hubs. Arrival timing depends on current bookings, traffic conditions, and your exact location within Gladesville. We provide an ETA when you book and update you if timing changes. For active leaks, burst pipes, sewage backups, or gas leaks, call 1800 349 338 for urgent dispatch.
What does your upfront fixed pricing include?
The upfront fixed price quote includes labour, diagnostic time, and the specific work described in the quote. Parts, materials, and any additional scope identified during the job are confirmed separately before proceeding. The price is by the job, not by the hour, so you know the full cost before we begin and there are no hidden fees or surprises at the end.
Is there a call-out fee for Gladesville?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area and job type. For many areas, there is no call-out fee, but this should be confirmed when booking. Our team will clarify the call-out fee status for your specific address and situation before dispatch, so you know exactly what to expect before the technician arrives.
What causes blocked drains in older Gladesville properties?
Drainage blockages in older Gladesville homes often result from tree root intrusion into aging terracotta or clay pipes, which were commonly installed in Federation-era and post-war properties. Fine roots enter through microscopic cracks or joints, expand over time, and trap debris. We use CCTV inspection equipment to inspect the line, confirm the cause and location, then clear the blockage with high-pressure water jetting. If structural damage is found, we explain whether drain relining or replacement is needed and provide transparent pricing for each option.
Should I attempt to fix a plumbing issue myself?
Minor issues like replacing a tap washer or tightening a loose fixture can sometimes be handled at home, but most plumbing work in NSW requires a licensed plumbing technician (NSW) for legal and safety reasons. DIY repairs can void warranties on appliances and fixtures, cause unintended damage, or create compliance issues during building inspections. Gas work, drainage alterations, and any work affecting water supply or sewerage systems must be performed by a licensed professional. If you're unsure, call 1800 349 338 and we'll confirm whether the issue requires a licensed and insured plumber and what the first visit involves.
How do you handle properties with difficult access or parking?
Gladesville properties vary in access, from narrow streets in older pockets near Huntleys Point to modern apartment complexes with restricted parking and strata access rules. We confirm access requirements when booking, including parking availability, strata sign-in procedures, and any time windows or entry instructions. If parking is limited, we use smaller service vehicles or arrange temporary access with you or the strata manager. All access and timing constraints are discussed before dispatch to avoid delays.
What's involved in a hot water system replacement?
A hot water unit replacement starts with an onsite inspection to confirm the existing system type, fuel source (electric, gas, or heat pump), installation location, and any access or compliance constraints. We explain the options suited to your property, including system size, energy efficiency, and upfront cost, then provide a fixed-fee quote covering removal of the old unit, supply and installation of the new system, and any required upgrades like Tempering Valve installation or gas line modifications. Installation timing depends on system availability and scheduling, typically completed within one to two days once parts are onsite. We test the system and verify correct operation before leaving.
Can you fix a leaking shower without major renovation work?
A leaking shower can result from failed grout or sealant, worn tap washers, or more serious issues like membrane failure behind the tiles. We start with a leak detection assessment to identify the source and extent of the problem. If it's a surface-level issue like perished sealant or a faulty tap, the repair is straightforward and completed onsite. If the leak originates from behind the tiles, we explain whether localised repair is possible or if more extensive waterproofing work is needed, and provide upfront pricing for each option before proceeding.
What should I do if I smell gas?
If you smell gas (a distinctive "rotten egg" odour), turn off the gas supply at the meter if it's safe to do so, open windows and doors to ventilate the area, do not operate electrical switches or appliances, and evacuate the property. Call 1800 349 338 from outside the building for immediate dispatch of a licensed gas fitter. Gas leaks are treated as emergencies and we prioritise them for urgent callout. Once the leak is located and made safe, we explain the cause and provide a fixed-price quote for the repair and any required compliance testing.
