Plumbing FAQ's in Warumbul
The following questions address common concerns we hear from Warumbul residents when booking plumbing work. These answers are grounded in how we actually operate, the scope we cover, and what you can expect when you book. If your specific question isn't covered here, our phone line operates 24/7 and we're happy to clarify before you commit to booking.
How quickly can you reach Warumbul for an emergency?
Emergency dispatch for Warumbul operates 24/7, with the nearest available licensed and insured plumbing technician sent immediately from our South Sydney or West Sydney hubs. Arrival timing depends on current job locations, traffic conditions, and time of day, but urgent jobs are prioritised ahead of scheduled maintenance. We provide an estimated arrival window when you book so you know when to expect the plumber. If you need to limit active damage while waiting (like shutting off water at the meter), we'll guide you through it on the phone.
Do you provide quotes before starting work?
Yes. Every job is assessed onsite first, then quoted as a fixed price before any work starts. The quote covers the confirmed scope (what needs to be done to fix the problem), including parts and labour, with no surprise charges added later. For complex jobs where scope isn't immediately clear (like drainage blockages requiring camera inspection to locate), we explain the diagnostic process first, complete the assessment, then quote the full repair once we know exactly what's involved. You can decide after seeing the quote.
What does your insurance actually cover?
Fixed Today Plumbing carries full Public Liability and Workers Compensation insurance. Public Liability protects you if accidental property damage occurs during our work (for example, a tool slips and damages a finished surface). Workers Compensation covers workplace injury situations involving our staff while they're working on your property. These policies are current and maintained as a condition of holding our NSW plumbing licence. Insurance doesn't cover pre-existing damage or faults unrelated to our work.
Are there call-out fees in Warumbul?
Call-out fee status for Warumbul (postcode 2229) should be confirmed when booking, as it can vary by service type and timing. Many standard service areas have no call-out fee, but it's best to ask upfront so you know exactly what you're paying before the plumber is dispatched. If a call-out fee applies, it's disclosed when you book, not added as a surprise after the plumber arrives.
What causes blocked drains in Warumbul properties?
Blocked drains in Warumbul typically occur due to tree root intrusion in external sewer lines (common in properties with established gardens and older clay or terracotta pipes), or Fat, Oil, and Grease buildup in kitchen drains that solidifies and traps food waste. Internal bathroom blockages are often hair and soap scum accumulation. The cause is identified using CCTV camera inspection, which shows exactly what's blocking the line and whether the pipe itself is damaged. That determines whether the fix is clearing the blockage or repairing structural damage.
How is the fixed price calculated?
The fixed price is based on the scope of work required to complete the repair or installation to Australian plumbing standards. Factors that change the price include the extent of the fault (isolated leak vs. Multiple sections needing replacement), access difficulty (concealed pipes requiring wall or floor access), parts required (standard fixtures vs. Specialised components), and time required onsite to complete and test the work. The price is explained before you approve it, and it doesn't change once work starts unless you request additional scope beyond what was quoted.
What happens if the problem is bigger than expected?
If the initial assessment reveals additional issues beyond the original fault (for example, a drain blockage inspection shows structural pipe damage, or a leaking tap repair uncovers corroded pipework behind the wall), we stop, explain what we've found, and provide options with updated pricing. You decide whether to proceed with the additional work, handle it separately, or get a second opinion. We don't expand scope or add costs without your approval first. The goal is clarity, not surprise invoices.
Do your plumbers carry common parts?
Yes. Our vans carry common plumbing parts including tap washers and cartridges, toilet cistern components, pipe fittings, sections of copper and PVC pipe, isolation valves, and standard fixture seals. This allows most repairs to be completed on the first visit once the fault is identified. For specialised parts (specific hot water unit components, unusual fixture sizes, or commercial-grade hardware), we order them and schedule a return visit once they arrive. You're told immediately if parts need ordering.
Can you work around my schedule for non-urgent jobs?
Yes. Non-emergency plumbing is scheduled at a time that suits you, including evenings and weekends if needed. When booking, we arrange an appointment window, confirm arrival timing, and stick to it unless traffic or a prior emergency delays us (in which case we call ahead to let you know). For strata properties or rentals requiring access coordination with property managers or tenants, we work within the arranged access time windows and provide advance notice where required.
What should I do if I smell gas?
If you smell gas (the rotten-egg odour added as a safety warning), don't operate electrical switches, ignition sources, or anything that could create a spark. Ventilate the area if safe to do so, evacuate the property, and call us from outside. If it's safe and you know where the gas meter is located, you can turn off the supply at the meter before evacuating. Our licensed gas fitters will respond immediately, isolate the supply, locate the leak using detection equipment, make it safe, and then explain the repair options once the immediate risk is controlled.