In New Zealand, anyone carrying out restricted drainlaying work must be licensed by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) — the official trade licensing authority. Checking a drain cleaner's registration is straightforward once you know where to look, and it's an important step before letting anyone work on your property's drainage system.
Why Licensing Matters for Drain Cleaners
Drainlaying is restricted work under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006. This means certain tasks — such as repairing, replacing, or altering drain pipes connected to the public sewer or stormwater system — can only be legally performed by a licensed drainlayer or a licensed plumber with drainlaying authorisation. Unlicensed work can void your home insurance, create liability issues, and may not comply with the NZ Building Code.
Not all drain-clearing tasks are restricted. Unblocking a sink trap or clearing a simple blockage with a plunger is something a homeowner can do themselves. However, if the job involves cutting into pipework, repairing underground drains, or connecting to the public network, a licensed professional is legally required.
How to Check the PGDB Public Register
The easiest way to verify a drain cleaner's credentials is to use the PGDB's online public register. Here's how:
- Visit www.pgdb.co.nz
- Navigate to the 'Find a Practitioner' or licence search section
- Enter the tradesperson's name or company name
- Check that their licence is current and active, and that it covers drainlaying
The register will show you the type of licence held (e.g. Licensed Drainlayer, Certifying Drainlayer, or Licensed Plumber with drainlaying scope), and whether it is current. A Certifying Drainlayer holds the highest level of qualification and can certify their own work.
Types of PGDB Licences to Look For
| Licence Type | What They Can Do |
|---|---|
| Certifying Drainlayer | Full drainlaying work and can self-certify |
| Licensed Drainlayer | Restricted drainlaying work (supervision requirements depend on licence conditions) |
| Certifying Plumber (with drainlaying) | Plumbing and drainlaying, can certify |
| Tradesperson (Drainlaying) | Works under a certifying practitioner |
Always confirm the licence type covers the specific work you need done.
Other Ways to Verify a Drain Cleaner's Credentials
Ask to See Their Licence Card
Licensed practitioners are issued a PGDB licence card and are required to carry it. Don't be shy about asking — a reputable tradesperson will show it willingly.
Check for a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
If drainage work is connected to broader building work, the tradesperson may also hold an LBP licence. You can search the LBP register on their website.
Look for Trade Association Membership
While not a legal requirement, membership in industry groups such as Master Plumbers NZ or the Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying industry bodies can indicate a commitment to professional standards. Ask the tradesperson directly.
Check Reviews and Business Listings
Local directories like tradedirectory.co.nz list qualified tradespeople in your area. Reading verified reviews and checking how long a business has been operating can give you added confidence.
What Happens If Work Is Done by an Unlicensed Person?
Using an unlicensed drain cleaner for restricted work carries real risks:
- Insurance may not cover damage or failures resulting from unlicensed work
- The work may not meet NZ Building Code requirements, particularly Clause G13 (Foul Water) and Clause E1 (Surface Water)
- Your local council may require the work to be redone at your cost
- You could face difficulties when selling your home if drainage work cannot be certified
The MBIE Building Performance website has clear guidance on what work requires consent and certification.
When to Call a Professional
Always hire a licensed drainlayer or certifying plumber when:
- Drains are repeatedly blocking, suggesting a deeper structural issue
- You suspect cracked, collapsed, or root-invaded pipes
- Work involves cutting into or replacing underground drain pipes
- The blockage is near or connected to the public sewer or stormwater network
- A building consent may be required (check with your local council — requirements vary)
For straightforward blockages you can tackle yourself (like a blocked sink using a plunger or hand auger), no licence is needed. But when in doubt, it's always safer and smarter to call a licensed professional. You can find qualified, registered drain cleaners and drainlayers in your area at tradedirectory.co.nz.
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