Our Sydney Plumbing Prices

How Much Do Plumbers Charge Per Hour In Sydney?

What is your hourly rate? It is probably one of the most frequently asked questions Sydney plumber get and for a good reason. We do not have an hourly rate, and instead, we charge by the job, not by the hour, with a system called up-front pricing. It is transparent, and you know what you are getting before we start work, with no hidden costs and peace of mind that the price is guaranteed… no matter how long it takes to carry out the job.

Charging by the job and not by the hour does not appeal to everyone, but we have found this is the most transparent way to conduct business. When it comes to Plumbing, every job is different. That is why you are calling us in to fix it. We often find we need to see the problem before letting you know how much it will cost to fix it. That is why we offer the complimentary call out, and once we are onsite, we can determine what the job will cost. Each type of job is a set, upfront fixed price, and we need to determine what that is by conducting a thorough inspection.

We respect that our clients are often time-poor professionals who want the job done efficiently and of high quality. They also appreciate their time over money and understand the actual value of the service we provide. We find billing hourly gives you the incentive to work less efficiently since you are being paid not for the outcome but for your time.

The cost of Plumbing is arguably the biggest concern for anyone when organising a job. A job well done is a must-have, but so is a competitive quote. Clarity is also crucial. Customers want to know exactly what goes into plumbing quotes. They want to understand what contributes to the cost of any repair, installation, or maintenance task. It may come as a surprise, but 92% of homeowners prefer upfront flat-rate pricing over the old school method known as an hourly rate.

If you would like to discuss our prices further, please do not hesitate to contact William, the director or visit one of our top 10 blogs - How to choose the right plumber.

Providing Quotes Over The Phone

We understand that when clients reach out to us, they often have an idea of the time and cost required for their desired plumbing job. It is common to receive inquiries such as, "How much to fix my tap washer? It's a quick 2-minute job; I just lack the tools." While we appreciate the assumption of simplicity, the truth is that even seemingly straightforward tasks cannot be accurately quoted over the phone due to the numerous variables involved, which may not be apparent to the typical consumer.

At Proximity Plumbing, we prioritize professionalism and ensure that our customers are well-informed. We believe in providing accurate and transparent pricing, which is why we do not provide quotes over the phone for plumbing services. We recognize that every plumbing installation is unique, and there are often underlying complexities that can only be identified through an onsite investigation.

The only reliable way to diagnose a plumbing problem is through an in-person assessment. While you may be able to visually observe a portion of the issue, there are often hidden factors that can significantly impact the required repairs or installations. No two plumbing systems are entirely alike, regardless of their apparent similarities.

Unfortunately, we have observed that some plumbers offer quotes over the phone. We consider this approach to be unprofessional and a disservice to the customer. Such quotes are often nothing more than a marketing ploy to entice customers to engage in their services. We believe in providing honest and accurate assessments, which can only be achieved through a thorough onsite examination.

Consider the analogy of a doctor diagnosing a medical condition over the phone. While diagnosing a medical issue remotely may be easier than diagnosing a plumbing problem, no reputable doctor would attempt to do so without first examining the patient. Similarly, our commitment to professional service means that we will conduct a comprehensive assessment before providing an accurate quote or recommending the necessary solutions.

We appreciate your understanding of our approach, which ensures that our customers receive the highest quality service and avoid any unexpected costs or complications. If you require plumbing assistance, we encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment for an onsite investigation. Our expert plumbers will thoroughly assess the situation, provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer the most appropriate solutions tailored to your specific needs. 

Plumbing Costs Explained

We understand that the traditional "time and material" billing method may be suitable for independent plumbers operating as one-person operations. However, when it comes to a legitimate service company like Proximity Plumbing, we believe it would be unfair to charge customers solely "by the hour." Plumbing professionals work at different speeds, possess varying levels of skill, expertise, and experience, and have unique personalities. Charging solely "by the hour" could result in customers paying different amounts for the same work, which goes against our commitment to fairness and transparency.

In today's marketplace, reputable plumbing and drain service companies in and around Sydney have adopted a method known as Upfront Pricing. This pricing model ensures that all customers pay the same price for the same work, regardless of the individual plumber's speed or efficiency. To determine a fair and consistent price, we calculate an average time based on the collective expertise and efficiency of our team.

The implementation of Upfront Pricing brings several benefits to our customers. Firstly, it eliminates the uncertainty of costs and allows customers to know the price before the work commences. This transparency fosters trust and removes the stress of constantly "watching the clock" during the service. With Upfront Pricing, there are no additional costs or surprises, providing peace of mind to our valued customers. As a result, Upfront Pricing has become the standard pricing model adopted by our team at Proximity Plumbing.

When you choose our services, rest assured that the flat rate quoted will remain unchanged, regardless of whether the job takes one hour or several hours. This approach ensures fairness and consistency for all our customers, reinforcing our commitment to providing top-quality service at a transparent and agreed-upon price.

Problems With Plumbers Charging Hourly Rate

At Proximity Plumbing, we understand the importance of thorough drain inspections to prevent any potential blockages from being overlooked. We highly recommend checking all accessible drains to ensure comprehensive maintenance. By doing so, you minimize the risk of missing any existing or underlying issues that may contribute to future blockages. However, it's important to note that this process serves as a temporary solution and does not guarantee a completely clear drain or long-term prevention of blockages.

During the drain cleaning process, our skilled technicians exercise utmost care to clear your drains effectively. However, it's worth mentioning that in rare circumstances, drain clearing equipment can become entangled with defective joints in your drain system. If this occurs, there may be a need for minor excavation to retrieve the equipment and rectify the defective drain. Our team will provide a detailed price estimate for this additional service.

Furthermore, we want to emphasize that the warranty for drain clearing services only covers drains that our technician has visually inspected. It is essential for our technician to conduct a thorough visual assessment of all internal plumbing components before issuing a warranty. Please be aware that if damaged sections of the drain requiring repair are identified during the inspection, the warranty may be voided, as these sections would require appropriate repair or replacement.

We take great care in delivering high-quality plumbing services and ensuring the satisfaction of our valued customers. Our technicians are trained to perform meticulous drain inspections and clearing processes, taking all necessary precautions to minimize disruptions and provide effective solutions. We understand that, during the drain cleaning process, there may be instances of water surcharge, and we assure you that our team will manage it professionally.

Why We Stand By Upfront Fixed Pricing

At Proximity Plumbing, we firmly believe that offering a more premium and quality service, along with transparent pricing, is far superior to compromising on quality and earning a reputation for subpar service in the Eastern Suburbs community. You may wonder why our prices may appear higher than some of our competitors, and I would like to take this opportunity to provide you with an understanding of our pricing philosophy.

Our prices are not set arbitrarily or based on the level we consider fair or merely to cover our operating costs. They are also not based on the rates charged by our competitors. Instead, our prices are carefully determined to ensure that we can maintain a reasonable profit margin of 10 cents out of every dollar after taxes. We believe this approach is both fair and sustainable for our business and allows us to continue providing the highest level of service to our valued clients.

When Proximity Plumbing was established by William and Emily, our primary goal was not to make a quick profit. It was to earn a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy plumbing service provider. We strive to build long-lasting relationships with our clients, prioritizing their satisfaction over mere transactions. With over 500 positive Google reviews online, we are proud to say that our commitment to excellence has been recognized by our satisfied customers. We encourage you to check out these reviews to gain a better understanding of the quality of service we consistently deliver.

When it comes to larger projects such as sewer rehabilitation or relining, we understand the importance of obtaining multiple quotes to ensure you are making an informed decision. We encourage you to compare "apples to apples" by carefully assessing the scope of work, pricing, and the value offered by different plumbing companies. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, we advise considering the overall quality, service, and long-term value provided. We believe that by thoroughly evaluating the differences, you will recognize the qualities that set Proximity Plumbing apart from other plumbing companies, including our commitment to excellent service, competitive pricing, and exceptional value.

What We Charge For After-Hours Work

How many times have you faced the frustration of an urgent plumbing emergency occurring during inconvenient hours, such as late at night, early in the morning, or on weekends or public holidays? We understand that these problems always seem to arise at the worst possible times, adding to the stress and inconvenience.

At Proximity Plumbing, we aim to alleviate your worries by providing exceptional plumbing services that cater to your urgent needs, without charging exorbitant rates for after-hours service. Unlike many other providers who increase their prices substantially during these times, our commitment to fairness means that our rates remain consistent from midday to midnight. With us, you can count on transparency and affordability, even during emergencies.

Furthermore, we recognize the importance of prompt response during plumbing emergencies. That's why we always have our team of fully qualified plumbers ready to assist you 24/7, 365 days a year. When you reach out to us, you can rest assured that we will dispatch a professional plumber to your location within an hour* of your call, ensuring swift resolution to your plumbing issues.

At Proximity Plumbing, our customer-first approach sets us apart. We take pride in prioritizing your needs above all else, ensuring your satisfaction with every interaction. Our commitment to exceptional service is unparalleled, making us a preferred choice in the industry. We challenge you to find competitors who can offer a similar level of care and convenience in their services.

Interest-Free** Options for After-Hours Services

At Proximity Plumbing, we understand that unexpected plumbing expenses can sometimes strain your budget. Despite our commitment to providing exceptional service without extra charges, we recognize that the cost may still be a concern for some customers.

To ensure your convenience and peace of mind, we offer flexible payment options designed to suit your financial needs. Our range of interest-free** payment plans allows you to spread the cost of your plumbing services across multiple installments. Whether you prefer weekly, fortnightly, or monthly payments, our payment plans enable you to avoid a large upfront lump sum, making it easier to manage your expenses.

When our professional plumber arrives at your location, they will be more than happy to discuss these payment options with you on site. They can provide all the necessary information and assist you in signing up for a suitable payment plan right away, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

At Proximity Plumbing, we take pride in delivering quality, award-winning service to our valued customers around the clock. Our commitment to fairness and transparency means that you will never incur additional charges for after-hours service. No matter the time of day or night, you can rely on our team of skilled plumbers to provide prompt and efficient assistance without compromising on quality.

Why Are Some Plumbers Cheaper Or More Expensive?

At Proximity Plumbing, we understand that when it comes to choosing a plumber, you may come across others offering lower prices for similar services. While we never want to pressure you into a decision or question the capabilities of other plumbers, it is essential to consider the value we bring to the table.

We want to be transparent about our pricing structure and the factors that differentiate us from smaller, "one-man-band" operations or companies. Each plumbing service provider has its own cost of doing business, and this can significantly impact pricing. When you choose Proximity Plumbing, you are not only investing in our services but also in consistently great value and peace of mind.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. With a dedicated team available round the clock, we provide reliable support to meet your plumbing needs promptly and efficiently, guaranteed. Our highly trained professionals work together, leveraging their expertise and experience to deliver top-notch service and ensure your peace of mind.

While other providers may offer lower prices, it's important to consider the overall value you receive when working with Proximity Plumbing. We prioritize not only the quality of our work but also the long-term benefits and satisfaction of our customers. Our team's collective knowledge and resources enable us to tackle a wide range of plumbing challenges effectively and efficiently, ensuring durable solutions that stand the test of time.

We appreciate your consideration of Proximity Plumbing for your plumbing needs and assure you that choosing us means investing in unparalleled value and peace of mind. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.