If work does not comply
If work does not comply with the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) and the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) requirements of AS/NZS 3500, you’ll be issued with a written direction to comply notice. At the audit inspection, the NSW Fair Trading inspector might issue:
- a 'caution' notice for minor issues that can be fixed on the spot and within the time it takes for the audit inspection to be completed.
- a formal written direction to comply notice for more complex issues that can’t be fixed immediately. The issues must be fixed within the timeframe mentioned in the notice. You’ll then need to book a follow-up audit re-inspection so that Fair Trading can review the work. A re-inspection fee will be required.
All notices will be sent to your nominated email and a copy kept on your record.
Penalty Infringement Notices
Fair Trading can issue plumbers and drainers with a Penalty Infringement Notice (PIN) if they fail to follow the written direction to comply notice or commit other offences under the NSW Plumbing and Drainage Act 2011 and/or the NSW Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2017.
Payment of the PIN does not exclude the responsible person from fixing the work, and further action can be taken if the work is not rectified. Revenue NSW administers the PIN once it has been issued. The responsible person who receives the PIN can pay the penalty or can challenge the notice in court.