How to verify trade licences for bathroom renovators? (Bathroom | Building & Approvals)

When renovating a bathroom in Sydney, the quality of the finished project depends heavily on the skills and legality of the tradespeople you hire. From plumbers and waterproofers to electricians and tilers, hiring licensed professionals is not just recommended — in NSW, it’s legally required for certain trades. Verifying trade licences ensures your bathroom renovation is compliant, safe, and protected under insurance and warranty provisions.

Here’s a complete guide on how to verify trade licences for bathroom renovators in Sydney, what to check, and why it matters for your renovation project.

1. Why verifying licences is essential

Hiring unlicensed tradespeople carries major risks:

• Legal consequences: In NSW, performing plumbing, electrical, or waterproofing work without a licence is illegal.

• Insurance voiding: Damage caused by unlicensed work may not be covered by your strata or home insurance.

• Poor workmanship: Licensed trades undergo training and certification to meet Australian Standards.

• Compliance issues: Council inspections and strata approvals often require work to be completed by licensed professionals.

Sydney homeowners often underestimate the importance of checking licences. A simple verification can prevent costly mistakes, legal issues, and safety hazards.

2. Identify which trades need a licence in NSW

For bathroom renovations in Sydney, several trades require licensing under NSW law:

1. Plumbers — all plumbing and drainage work.

2. Waterproofers — all wet-area waterproofing, especially in showers and baths.

3. Electricians — electrical wiring, switches, lighting, and exhaust fans.

4. Gasfitters — for gas water heaters, gas outlets, and any gas connections.

5. Builders / carpenters — for structural work or building modifications.

Other trades, like tilers or painters, do not require licences, but hiring experienced and insured professionals is still important for quality assurance.

3. How to verify a trade licence in NSW

NSW Fair Trading maintains an official online database for trade licences. The process is straightforward:

Step 1: Gather trade details

• Full name of the contractor

• Business name (if applicable)

• Licence number (often on their business card or invoice)

Step 2: Visit NSW Fair Trading’s licence check tool

• Go to: https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/licensing-and-certification

• Select the relevant trade category (plumbing, electrical, waterproofing, gasfitting, etc.)

Step 3: Enter the trade details

• Enter the contractor’s name or licence number

• Click “Search”

Step 4: Review the results

• Check that the licence is current and valid

• Verify licence type matches the work to be done (e.g., a plumber’s licence must cover sanitary and drainage work)

• Note any restrictions, suspensions, or expiry dates

Step 5: Keep a record

• Take a screenshot or print the verification

• Include it with your renovation documentation for insurance, council, and strata approval purposes

4. Check for insurance and compliance certificates

Even with a verified licence, a reputable Sydney tradesperson should provide:

• Public liability insurance — protects your property in case of accidental damage.

• Workers’ compensation — ensures coverage if someone is injured during your renovation.

• Certificates of Compliance — for plumbing, waterproofing, or electrical works.

Always ask for these documents before signing a contract. This ensures that your bathroom renovation is fully legal and insured.

5. Verify licence scope and experience

Not all licences are created equal. Verify that:

• The licence covers the specific type of bathroom work you need.

• The tradesperson has experience with Sydney bathrooms, including apartment or strata work.

• They are familiar with NSW Building Code, waterproofing standards, and council requirements.

For example, some plumbers are licensed only for domestic water connections, but not for drainage or gas. Always check the licence category and limits.

6. Watch out for common licence scams

Some homeowners in Sydney have been caught out by tradespeople claiming licences that are:

• Expired or suspended

• Valid for another trade or category

• Fake or fraudulent

Tips to avoid scams:

• Always verify through the NSW Fair Trading online database

• Ask for a physical copy of the licence and insurance certificates

• Confirm the licence number matches the contractor’s business details

• Avoid paying large deposits without verification

7. Communicate verification results with strata or council

If your bathroom renovation is in an apartment or requires strata approval, submit verified licence details to the committee along with your renovation plan. Councils may also request licensed contractor verification before issuing a Construction Certificate (CC) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC).

This step ensures your renovation:

• Remains fully compliant with NSW laws

• Avoids delays in approvals

• Maintains valid insurance coverage

8. Maintain records for future reference

Keep all verification records, certificates, and licence details in a safe place. Sydney homeowners often need proof of licensed trades:

• For insurance claims in case of leaks or damage

• For strata compliance if issues arise

• During property sale — conveyancers may request evidence of licensed trades

Digital and physical copies are recommended.

9. Advantages of verifying trade licences

• Legal compliance: Avoid fines, penalties, or work stoppages.

• Safety: Licensed trades are trained to Australian Standards.

• Insurance protection: Ensures that damage or defects are covered.

• Peace of mind: Confidence that your bathroom renovation is professional and high-quality.

• Strata and council approval: Easier approval process for apartments or multi-unit buildings.

10. Common mistakes Sydney homeowners make

1. Hiring trades without checking licences.

2. Assuming an old or expired licence is valid.

3. Relying solely on word-of-mouth without verification.

4. Failing to check licence category and scope.

5. Ignoring certificates of compliance and insurance coverage.

Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and stress.

11. Practical tips for Sydney bathroom renovations

• Always verify the licence before signing contracts.

• Request copies of Certificates of Compliance and insurance.

• Confirm that tradespeople are familiar with Sydney strata and council requirements.

• Keep a record of verification for future inspections or claims.

• Choose trades with good reviews and proven experience in bathroom renovations.

Following these steps ensures your bathroom renovation in Sydney is legal, safe, and fully insured.

12. Final thoughts

Verifying trade licences is a small step that can prevent major headaches during a Sydney bathroom renovation. It ensures your renovation:

• Meets NSW regulations

• Is safe for your family

• Maintains insurance coverage

• Complies with strata or council requirements

By being diligent, you protect yourself legally, financially, and personally — and ensure your new bathroom meets the high standards Sydney homeowners expect.

For more information about kitchen, bathroom, and house renovation services in Sydney, visit www.mb9.com.au.