Plumbing FAQs
Answers before you call or send an enquiry
Common questions about urgent calls, estimates, coverage and licensing, answered before you pick up the phone.
Getting help
Call now or plan the work
Should I call or send an estimate enquiry?
Call when water is escaping, an essential fixture has failed or the problem simply cannot wait. For planned work, use the estimate form and include the property location, a description and photos if they help show the problem.
Can I call for urgent plumbing help after hours?
Yes. TotalCare accepts urgent plumbing calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 0410 908 209 and describe what is happening so Tommy can understand the problem and the next step.
What should I do if water is escaping?
If it is safe, turn off the affected fixture or the property water supply and keep people away from wet electrical areas. Then call TotalCare and explain where the water is coming from and whether it is still flowing.
What if I am not sure which plumbing service I need?
You don’t need to diagnose the fault or choose a service before calling. Tell Tommy what’s happening and which parts of the property are affected. TotalCare handles a broad range of plumbing and drainage work, so we can help work out what needs attention and explain the next step.
Planning the job
Coverage, credentials and job details
Which areas does TotalCare service?
TotalCare works across the Sydney metropolitan area, including the CBD and inner city, eastern suburbs, inner west, north shore, northern beaches, north-west, western Sydney, Canterbury-Bankstown, south-west, St George and the Sutherland Shire. Call Tommy to confirm your address before planning the work.
Does TotalCare work in homes, strata and commercial properties?
Yes. TotalCare takes on plumbing and drainage work for homes, strata-managed properties and commercial premises. For strata or commercial work, include the site contact, access details and who will approve the work.
Does TotalCare handle smaller plumbing repairs?
Yes. Taps, toilets, accessible pipe repairs, fixture installation and plumbing maintenance are all covered under general plumbing.
Is TotalCare licensed and insured?
Yes. TotalCare holds NSW contractor licence 499033C for Plumbing, Roof Plumbing, Draining, Gasfitting and LP Gasfitting, and is public liability insured.
Can I include photos with my enquiry?
Yes, up to five. Photos can help show the visible problem, though most jobs still need a proper look on site.
Common plumbing decisions
Understanding the likely next step
Why does a blocked drain keep returning?
Clearing a drain and fixing what caused the blockage are different jobs. Roots, a damaged section, an unsuitable fall or a build-up of material can all make it return. Once the line is clear, a camera inspection can help show what is happening inside it.
Can every damaged drain be relined?
No. Relining suits particular damaged pipe sections. A collapsed or badly misaligned line, or one that cannot be accessed safely, may need another repair approach. The drain needs to be inspected before relining is recommended.
Does a hot water system need repairing or replacing?
It depends on what has failed, the condition of the rest of the system and whether it still suits the household. An inspection helps establish whether a sound repair is available or replacement makes more sense.
Can TotalCare investigate a concealed leak?
Yes. TotalCare investigates unexplained water use, damp, staining and other signs of concealed leaks. Targeted checks help narrow down the likely source before the repair options are discussed.
Does TotalCare handle roof plumbing and stormwater?
Yes. TotalCare handles suitable gutter, downpipe, roof-drainage and private stormwater work within its licensed scope. Some work that affects council land or drainage may require approval.
Safety and responsibility
Gas and blocked drains
What should I do if I smell gas?
If you smell gas in the property, exit the building immediately, call 000 and ask for the NSW Fire Service. Do not wait for a website enquiry reply.
Who is responsible for a blocked wastewater drain?
It depends on whether the blockage sits in your private plumbing or in Sydney Water’s network. Where it sits, and whether neighbouring properties are affected too, usually points to who should be called.
Need a plumber?
Still not sure?
Call for urgent help, or send the job details when the work can be planned.