You might think that plumbing is the same regardless of the job or location – but actually, when you look at commercial and residential plumbing, there are key differences between the two as far as the work completed and how it is done.
It’s important to know what exactly you’re after before you book your plumber on the Sunshine Coast. Read on to learn more about these differences so that you can book the most ideal plumber for your needs.
Expertise
All plumbers are able to manage issues with drainage, water, and waste. While residential plumbers focus on particular suburbs and the specific issues that may arise due to building foundations, the quality of drainage and the ages of properties, commercial plumbers are trained to handle single large projects and workloads.
Scope of work
Residential plumbing can be as simple as fixing a leaking toilet to complex work related to building contracts. Commercial plumbing covers a range of markets, including industrial work, commercial-grade plumbing, or office plumbing, and so a commercial plumber needs to have specialist knowledge of these specific areas.
As commercial buildings are bigger in general, are more complex, and are occupied by more people, the plumbing requirements are greater than they would be in a home, with more bathrooms, many sinks, and larger and more durable fixtures.
This higher demand from staff and customers can lead to more frequent maintenance and repairs and to more regular emergencies. As damage to a commercial plumbing system can be catastrophic, especially in multi-storey buildings, it’s essential it is taken care of any issues as soon as they arise.
Work hours
Commercial work may take a plumber beyond the typical 9-5 operating hours more often. As they’re required to work alongside different trades and project managers, commercial plumbers need to meet deadlines to make sure other elements of the project can begin on time.
Additionally, any problem that might arise in a commercial plumbing system could impact many more people, and it’s crucial emergencies are resolved quickly by a professional.
These factors could require a commercial plumber to work outside normal business hours or even on weekends more regularly. As commercial plumbers will usually have fixed rates, they’ll take this into account when planning their scope of work in order to minimise unplanned or unscheduled overtime.
Location and surroundings
Commercial plumbers sometimes need to consider the time of day in which they’re working, and the impact their work might have on people working in the building. Permits, local council regulations, and health and safety requirements all need to be considered and upheld while the work is being completed.
While residential projects will still impact those living in the home, they often can vacate during working hours allowing plumbers free access and not so much restriction when it comes to noise reduction.
Licenses
If a residential plumber is working on a building project, is required to read building plans or is working with a permit, they’ll need a commercial license.
The required licensing is different if their work covers general maintenance. Larger commercial work requires compliance with building codes and regulations and obtaining required licenses and insurance.
Working with other trades
Residential plumbers may be able to manage small projects like bathroom renovations. In the commercial sphere, a project manager might be responsible for the trades on site, and commercial plumbers may find themselves working alongside engineers, architects and construction personnel continually throughout the project.
Inspection and sign-off
Commercial plumbing requires a high level of stringent testing, much more than residential work. Generally, the bigger the job, the more paperwork needs to be completed.
Meeting health and safety regulations is crucial for commercial plumbing work. As more people tend to access commercial spaces, especially restaurants or hospitality venues, it’s essential good hygiene is maintained throughout a commercial plumbing system.
This generally means quick-draining, easy-to-clean plumbing fixtures will be used and testing will be done to assure the system passes required health and safety standards.
Insurance
Commercial plumbers working on larger projects may require significant public liability insurance. The requirements of a commercial contract can be lengthy, and the project can take much more time than a residential job.
Complexity
Commercial projects can be complex and require a different level of knowledge and skills than residential jobs. A commercial building might feature many floors requiring multiple fixtures, while a residential building is usually more basic in design.
Therefore, it’s necessary that a commercial plumber understands complex building structures to ensure they can complete numerous installations and consider all the required aspects to ensure a successful job in all aspects.
Contact O'Brien Maroochydore for all your residential or commercial plumbing needs
If you’re in need of a reliable, professional, and efficient commercial or residential plumber on the Sunshine Coast, don’t wait – call O'Brien Maroochydore.
We’re an experienced, family-owned business offering a diverse range of services. We’re committed to delivering the highest standard of workmanship and excellent customer service, no matter the job.
For quality residential or commercial plumbing services you can trust, you can get in touch with our team today. Give us a call on (07) 5493 7330 or contact us online.
