Licensed plumber in Singapore: PUB rules and how to check one

Hiring a licensed plumber in Singapore isn't just good practice: for most plumbing on your water supply and sanitary system, PUB requires it. Here's what the rules cover and how to check a plumber.

What PUB's rules cover

PUB defines water service works as laying, installing, altering, repairing or replacing water pipes, tanks, taps and fittings in the drinking water supply system. Examples PUB gives include:

• Installing or replacing an electric storage water heater
• Installing or replacing water service pipes
• Urgent water service leak repairs

These, and regulated sanitary plumbing works, must be done by a PUB-licensed plumber.

It's an offence to hire an unlicensed plumber

PUB says that since 1 April 2018 it has been an offence to engage a plumber who isn't licensed by PUB for regulated water service and sanitary plumbing works. That applies to the person hiring, not only the plumber.

Simple jobs that are exempt

PUB's guidance allows some simple plumbing works without a licensed plumber, such as replacing a tap or mixer or a shower hose. A handyman can often do these. See handyman or licensed contractor.

How to check a plumber

1. Ask for their PUB licence number before work starts.
2. Check it on PUB's online listing of licensed plumbers.
3. Get a written quote that names the company.

PUB also suggests the Singapore Plumbing Society and town councils as places to find licensed plumbers.

Costs and quotes

See our plumber cost guide for typical prices. On ServeGig, plumbers give their PUB licence number when they sign up and we check it before approving them. Get up to 3 quotes on our plumbing page.