Plumbing audit program

The BPC conducts risk-based compliance audits and below ground drainage inspections of plumbing work throughout Victoria.

Compliance Auditors conduct on-site audits to sample performed plumbing work based on the lodgement of compliance certificates. The Auditor’s role is to ensure that the plumbing work complies with all relevant plumbing laws and standards.

The compliance certificates to be audited each month are selected using risk-based criteria.

The plumbing audit process

Audits are conducted by registered plumbers appointed by the BPC. All Auditors display identification cards whilst exercising these powers.

If you are a licensed plumber and your certified plumbing work is selected for a risk-based audit, we will contact you. You will need to arrange a suitable time with the property owner or occupier for a risk-based audit to be undertaken.

Risk-based audits are usually carried out between 7:30 am and 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. They take around 45 minutes to complete, depending on the complexity and size of the plumbing installation.

You must meet the Auditor at an agreed time if you are requested to be on site. You need to bring a copy of the compliance certificate (or certificates) and any other relevant documentation relating to the certified plumbing work. If the plumbing work involves roofing, you may be asked to provide safe access.

If a specific test is required during the audit, such as gas pressure test for the installation of a new gasfitting line, you or a qualified representative will be required to attend the risk-based audit with all relevant testing equipment. You must have the line under test when the Compliance Auditor arrives.

If the plumbing installation is large or complex, you should advise the Scheduling Officer of the type and amount of work completed when coordinating the risk-based audit to ensure enough time is allocated.

The Auditor will conduct audits based on checklists specific to each class of plumbing.

When plumbing work is non-compliant

If your work does not pass a risk-based plumbing audit, you may be issued with a rectification notice and selected for a follow-up audit.

Read more about what happens next, timeframes, review options and your rights on the Rectification of plumbing work page.

Email contacts

To enquire about an audit booking, email Audits.

To enquire or provide information in relation to a rectification notice, email Rectifications.

To cancel a drainage inspection, email Drain Cancellations.

To request a test prior to drainage inspection, email Test Prior.