What a complete quote shows
- A business name that matches the licence you looked up.
- The licence number, and the class of work it covers.
- What work will be done, and where on the property.
- The parts or the model being installed.
- What isn't included, so there are no surprises.
- Who will do the work on the day.
- The paperwork you'll get, such as a compliance certificate.
- Any rebate or discount, shown on the quote itself.
- The deposit, when the rest is due, and how to pay.
- When the work starts and roughly how long it takes.
Why these items matter
Some come straight from the rules. In WA, regulation 25A says a licensed plumbing contractor's number must appear on business documents such as quotes and invoices. NSW tells homeowners to get quotes that confirm the Energy Savings Scheme discount is included. In the ACT, you shouldn't accept a quote for Home Energy Support until your application is pre-approved.
Others come from cases. When Building Commission NSW cancelled the licences of two proxy plumbing businesses in June 2026, failing to give written quotes or itemised invoices was among the practices it found. Consumer Affairs Victoria's 2025 warning described a quick look, a quote in the thousands and a deposit of usually 50%.
Stop and ask questions if
- The job suddenly becomes urgent and needs a big deposit today.
- The name on the quote doesn't match the licence.
- There is no written quote, only a figure said out loud.
- A discount you were promised is missing from the paperwork.
If something is missing
Ask the plumber to add each missing item to the written quote, and keep a copy of the version you sign.
For more, read plumbing quotes explained and how to choose a plumber. If you'd rather start fresh, we match you with one licence-checked plumber who does your kind of job.