07 Apr Top 10 Plumbing Issues In Brisbane
…And How to Avoid Major Repairs!
Ahhh… plumbing issues.. if there’s one thing I’ve learned after decades in this industry, it’s that no two homes are exactly alike – but the plumbing problems? They’re often very similar.
Across Brisbane and South East Queensland, we work on everything from heritage Queenslanders to modern apartments, and time and time again, the same issues show up. Some start small and turn into something serious if left alone. Others strike fast and cause instant chaos – burst pipes, I’m looking at you.
So, let me walk you through the top 10 most common plumbing problems we see across Brisbane homes, what causes them, and what you can do to stay ahead of the game.
1. Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are one of the most common issues we’re called out for – and one of the most disruptive if not handled properly. In Brisbane, the big culprit is tree roots, especially in older suburbs with aging underground pipework. Grease, soap scum, and hair are other everyday offenders.
Blocked drains often start with slow drainage or an unpleasant odour. If left too long, they can lead to wastewater backups or even pipe damage.
Rich’s tip: Avoid flushing wipes (even the “flushable” ones), and don’t pour cooking oils down the sink.
👉 Learn more about our Hydrojetting Drain Clearing services here
2. Leaking Taps
A dripping tap might not seem like a big deal, but over time it can waste hundreds of litres of water – not to mention quietly driving up your water bill.
The usual suspects are worn-out washers or cartridges. We see this frequently in older Brisbane homes with original fixtures.
If a quick repair doesn’t solve the issue, we can recommend a modern, water-efficient replacement.
👉 Need help with a leaking tap? Contact us today.
3. Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are one of the most urgent plumbing emergencies we handle. They can occur due to pipe corrosion, shifting ground, high water pressure, or even damage from tree roots.
Brisbane’s combination of intense summer heat and unexpected cold snaps [not to mention the odd Cyclone thrown in!] means this issue is more common than people think. Burst pipes can cause significant property damage in a matter of minutes.
Quick tip: Know where your main water shut-off valve is – it can save you thousands in damage if you ever face a burst pipe emergency.
📞 Call our 24/7 emergency team for urgent repairs
4. Sewer Line Blockages
Sewer issues are messy and, unfortunately, expensive if ignored. In Brisbane, blockages are often caused by invasive tree roots, oil and grease, or items that should never be flushed. These are best left to the professionals, Team AGPCo, to deal with, especially with family around due to hygiene reasons.
We offer CCTV drain inspections and scheduled maintenance programs for properties that experience recurring issues.
👉 Explore our Plumbing & Drainage services
5. Leaking Roofs and Gutters
With Brisbane’s wet season bringing heavy downpours, your roof plumbing needs to be in top shape. Blocked gutters or cracked tiles can lead to ceiling stains, internal water damage, and even mould.
If you notice damp patches indoors or water running where it shouldn’t be – especially during or after a storm – get it checked out quickly. It’s often a small fix that prevents larger damage.
6. Faulty or Outdated Plumbing Fixtures
Outdated fixtures are not only less water-efficient, but they’re also more prone to leaks and breakages. We see this regularly in older homes that still have their original taps, shower heads, and toilets.
Modern fixtures aren’t just about convenience – they help reduce water bills and can update the look and feel of your bathroom or kitchen.
👉 Looking to upgrade your plumbing?
7. Hot Water System Failures
If your hot water suddenly disappears, there’s a good chance your system is nearing the end of its life. Most systems in Brisbane last between 10–15 years.
Common signs of failure include water that runs cold, discoloured water, odd noises from the tank, or inconsistent water pressure.
We supply and install gas, electric, and solar hot water systems, and we’ll always give you honest advice about whether a repair or replacement is more cost-effective. We can also advise on the best options for your household.
👉 See our Hot Water Services here
8. Low Water Pressure
If your taps or showers feel like they’re barely working, low water pressure could be the cause. In many Brisbane homes, it’s due to mineral build-up, partially blocked pipes, or aging internal plumbing systems.
It might also indicate a hidden leak or a problem in the mains supply. Either way, we can get to the bottom of it with a thorough inspection and diagnostic check.
👉 See our Hot Water Services here
9. Constantly Running Toilets
Toilets that won’t stop refilling can waste thousands of litres of water every week. Often, the issue lies with a faulty fill valve, flapper, or sediment buildup inside the cistern.
This is a simple fix for a professional plumber, but left unattended, it’s a hidden cost you don’t need on your water bill.
Toilets waste up to 750 litres a day if left running. Not great for the water bill or the environment.
💡 Sustainability matters – and we’re big on installing water-efficient fixtures where possible.
10. Gas Leaks
Gas leaks are a serious safety concern and should never be ignored. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, evacuate the area and contact a licensed gas fitter immediately.
Our team are fully certified gas fitters and can inspect and repair domestic and commercial gas systems, and we carry out routine checks as part of scheduled maintenance to prevent issues before they become dangerous.
👉 Review our full Gas Fitting services here
Final Words from Rich…
Across Brisbane and South East Queensland, these are the plumbing issues we see most frequently – but the good news is that with a little proactive maintenance, most of them can be prevented.
Whether you’re dealing with a persistent leak, a blocked drain, or a hot water system on its last legs, we’re here to help.
At Alexander Gas and Plumbing Co., we believe in providing reliable, high-quality service with a focus on clear communication, professionalism, and long-term solutions.
We work with homeowners, businesses, and government departments across Brisbane, and we understand the importance of compliance, safety, and cleanliness on every job – no matter how big or small.
If you’re not sure where to start, we offer full plumbing health checks and preventative maintenance tailored to your property type.
📞 Get in touch with us today and speak to one of our licensed experts.
And if you’ve tried to fix something yourself and it didn’t quite go to plan—don’t worry. It happens. We’re always happy to help and there’s no judgment here.
With over 30 years in the plumbing industry he provides a level headed and experience approach to all client related work.He is genuine person with a keen interest in family, friends and helping others.
He holds Queensland Plumbing Licence 28840, Gas Licence L31 902, QBCC License 12 654 79, and Building Assets and Services Contractor licence 860 066.
Rich believes in educating clients about their plumbing systems and providing honest advice about when professional help is needed.
He founded Alexander Gas and Plumbing Co in 2013 to provide personal, trustworthy service to Brisbane families and businesses.
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