A dripping tap is one of the most common household plumbing problems in New Zealand — and while it might seem minor, even a slow leak can waste thousands of litres of water a year and cause hidden moisture damage over time. In most cases, the answer is straightforward: you need a qualified plumber. This guide explains why, what the job involves, what's legally restricted work in NZ, and how to get the best outcome.
The Right Trade: A Qualified Plumber
A plumber is the primary trade you need for a leaking tap. In New Zealand, plumbing work on sanitary fixtures — including taps connected to your water supply — is restricted work under the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006. This means the work must be carried out (or supervised) by a person who holds a current practising licence issued by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB).
Always ask to see your plumber's licence before work begins. You can verify a licence on the PGDB website using their online register.
Why Is a Leaking Tap Restricted Work?
Taps are directly connected to your pressurised water supply system. Incorrect repairs can:
- Cause flooding or water damage to your home's structure (relevant to NZ Building Code clause E3 – Internal Moisture)
- Result in cross-contamination of the potable water supply
- Void your home insurance if unlicensed work is later discovered
- Create ongoing leaks inside walls, leading to mould and rot
Because of these risks, the PGDB classifies tap repairs as restricted plumbing work. Only a licensed plumber may legally carry out or certify this work.
What a Plumber Will Do
When you call a plumber for a leaking tap, here is the typical process you can expect:
- Initial assessment — The plumber will inspect the tap, identify the type (mixer, pillar, ball valve, ceramic disc, etc.) and locate the source of the leak (spout, base, handle, or under the sink).
- Diagnosis — Common causes include worn washers, damaged O-rings, corroded valve seats, or faulty ceramic cartridges.
- Quote — They will provide a quote for the work before starting. Always get this in writing.
- Repair or replacement — Depending on the tap's age and condition, the plumber may replace washers or cartridges, re-seat the valve, or recommend replacing the tap entirely.
- Testing — The repaired tap is tested under pressure to confirm the leak is resolved.
- Compliance — For any restricted plumbing work, the licensed plumber must issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC), which is your legal record that the work meets the NZ Building Code.
Common Causes of Leaking Taps in NZ Homes
| Tap Type | Common Fault | Typical Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Pillar tap (older homes) | Worn rubber washer | Replace washer |
| Mixer tap | Worn O-ring or cartridge | Replace cartridge |
| Ball valve tap | Worn ball or seat | Replace ball assembly |
| Ceramic disc tap | Cracked or gritty disc | Replace ceramic cartridge |
| Outdoor tap | UV-degraded seals | Replace seals or tap body |
NZ's high-UV environment (especially in the North Island and coastal areas) accelerates the degradation of rubber seals and plastic components, so outdoor taps and garden fittings may need more frequent attention.
Could Other Trades Be Involved?
Sometimes a job involves more than one trade. Your primary tradesperson — the plumber — can advise if other specialists are needed. For example:
- A builder or plasterer may be needed if the leak has caused water damage to cabinetry, walls, or flooring.
- A tiler may be required if tiles around a basin or kitchen splashback need to be removed to access pipework.
- A painter may be needed to make good any surfaces affected by moisture damage.
A good plumber will flag these issues during their assessment so you can plan and budget accordingly.
Do You Need a Building Consent?
For a straightforward tap repair or like-for-like tap replacement, a building consent is generally not required under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004. However, if you are relocating a tap, adding new fixtures, or making changes to the water supply pipework, a consent may be required. Always confirm with your local council before proceeding with any work beyond a simple repair. You can find general guidance at MBIE Building Performance.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed plumber promptly if you notice any of the following:
- A tap that drips constantly, even when fully closed
- Water pooling under the sink or around the tap base
- Reduced water pressure from a single tap
- Discolouration or rust in the water from a tap
- A tap handle that spins freely without stopping the flow
- Any signs of moisture damage — staining, swelling, or mould — near the tap
Delaying a repair almost always makes the problem worse and more expensive. Water damage can compromise your home's structure and may affect compliance with the Healthy Homes Standards if you are a landlord.
Can a Homeowner Fix a Leaking Tap Themselves?
In New Zealand, homeowners may not legally carry out restricted plumbing work on their own home, even for what seems like a simple washer replacement. This is different from some other countries. The restricted work provisions under the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act apply regardless of whether you own or rent the property.
What a homeowner can do without a licence:
- Turn off the water at the toby (main shutoff) to stop a leak temporarily
- Replace a showerhead or tap aerator (non-pressurised fittings not connected to pipework)
- Report the issue and arrange for a licensed plumber to attend
If you are unsure whether a task is restricted work, contact the PGDB for clarification before starting.
How to Choose and Vet a Plumber
- Verify their licence on the PGDB online register before work starts
- Get multiple quotes — always get at least two or three written quotes for comparison
- Check qualifications — look for a Licensed Craftsman Plumber or Journeyman Plumber with a current practising licence
- Ask about experience with your tap type and brand
- Confirm they will issue a Certificate of Compliance on completion
- Check reviews and ask for references if the job is significant
You can find qualified, local plumbers by searching the tradedirectory.co.nz directory for your area.
Practical Tips to Get Good Value
- Act quickly — small leaks are cheaper to fix than water-damaged cabinetry or flooring
- Group small jobs — if you have other minor plumbing issues, have them assessed at the same visit to save on call-out fees
- Know your tap brand — if you can tell the plumber the brand and model, they may be able to bring the right parts on the first visit
- Ask about parts — for older taps, parts may need to be ordered; ask whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective
Sources & Further Reading
- Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) — licence verification and restricted work
- MBIE Building Performance — building consents and the NZ Building Code
- Tenancy Services — Healthy Homes Standards for rental properties
- BRANZ — building research and best practice guidance
- Consumer NZ — tips for hiring tradespeople
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