After 25 years working in the waterproofing industry across Brisbane, I've seen my fair share of regulatory changes. But the recent QBCC policy update regarding puddle flange installations has caught many contractors—and homeowners—completely off guard.
If you're planning any bathroom renovation, shower installation, or waterproofing work in Queensland, you need to understand this change. What was standard practice for decades is now strictly regulated, and getting it wrong can void warranties, create compliance issues, and leave you liable for expensive problems down the track.
Let me break down exactly what's changed, why it matters, and what you need to know to keep your project compliant.
What is a Puddle Flange and Why Does It Matter?
Before we dive into the regulatory change, let's establish what we're talking about. A puddle flange (also called a leak control flange or drainage flange) is the critical component that connects your shower floor waste to the drainage system while maintaining waterproofing integrity.
Think of it as the bridge between two essential systems. Above the flange, your waterproofing membrane wraps over and seals to it. Below the flange, the drainage pipe carries water away to your sewer system.
This small component, hidden beneath your tiles, is absolutely critical. If a puddle flange is installed incorrectly, water bypasses your drainage entirely and leaks directly into ceiling cavities, wall frames, or floor substrates below.
Over my 25 years diagnosing waterproofing failures, I've seen improper puddle flange installation cause catastrophic damage—from $20,000+ in structural repairs to complete bathroom rebuilds. It's not something you want installed wrong.
The Old QBCC Policy: How It Used to Work
For many years, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission maintained a policy that allowed licensed waterproofing contractors to install certain types of puddle flanges. The key distinction was the connection method:
Push-Fit Flanges with O-Rings
If the puddle flange was a "push fit" type with a rubber O-ring seal, licensed waterproofers could install it themselves. These flanges simply pushed onto the drainage riser pipe—no permanent connection to the drainage system involved.
This made practical sense. Waterproofers were already preparing the floor substrate, positioning the waste location, and would be waterproofing over the flange anyway. Being able to install a push-fit flange kept projects moving smoothly without requiring separate plumber coordination.
Glued Flanges Required Plumbers
If the puddle flange required gluing or solvent welding to the drainage riser—creating a permanent bond with the plumbing system—this was always classified as plumbing work requiring a licensed plumber.
This distinction had been Queensland's standard approach for decades. Most experienced waterproofers became very skilled at installing push-fit flanges as part of their normal workflow.
The 2025 Policy Change: What's Different Now
Here's what's changed—and it's significant.
As of 2025, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission has removed the distinction between push-fit and glued flanges entirely.
Current QBCC Policy (2025)
"The installation of any puddle flange is deemed regulated drainage work and, as such, must be carried out by a licensed plumber."
This means ALL puddle flange installations—regardless of whether they're push-fit, glued, or any other type—now require a licensed plumber. There are no exceptions. The simple push-fit flanges that waterproofers have been installing for decades are now off-limits.
A licensed plumber must ensure the drainage connection is installed and terminated correctly through appropriate fittings, installed per relevant standards and manufacturer instructions. The flange must also be properly recessed into the floor to allow for correct drainage fall.
Why Did the QBCC Make This Change?
While the QBCC hasn't published extensive public reasoning for this policy shift, the change aligns with several important factors:
National Consistency
In all other Australian jurisdictions, puddle flange installation has always been classified as regulated drainage work. Queensland's previous policy was actually the outlier. This change brings Queensland into line with national practice across Australia.
Drainage System Integrity
Even push-fit flanges are integral components of the regulated drainage system. They connect directly to and affect the performance of the broader plumbing network. Classifying all flange installation as drainage work ensures appropriate oversight and professional accountability.
Proper Installation Standards
Licensed plumbers are specifically trained in drainage codes, proper fall requirements, venting standards, and connection methods. This expertise helps ensure flanges are installed with the technical knowledge needed to prevent both immediate failures and long-term problems.
Recessing and Technical Requirements
Proper puddle flange installation isn't just about connecting the component—it requires appropriate recessing into the floor substrate to ensure correct drainage fall, proper waterproofing membrane attachment points, and structural integrity. The flange must be recessed so water doesn't pool around it, allowing proper drainage and membrane detailing.
Industry Response: The AIW's Position
The Australian Institute of Waterproofing (AIW) has publicly stated they believe the original policy was a sensible approach. According to their official statement:
AIW Statement
"The AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF WATERPROOFING (AIW) believes that the original policy was a sensible approach and will continue to work with the QBCC to try and re-establish the previous policy."
The AIW also notes that "in all other jurisdictions, the installation of puddle flanges is considered regulated drainage work" and they "intend to liaise with the other regulators on this issue as well."
However, it's crucial to understand that while these discussions may occur, regulatory change takes time and there's no guarantee the policy will revert. For now—and for the foreseeable future—the current 2025 policy is in full effect across Queensland.
Anyone planning waterproofing work must comply with current requirements, regardless of potential future policy adjustments.
What This Means for Your Waterproofing Project
If you're planning bathroom renovations, shower installations, or any waterproofing work involving floor drains, here's what you need to understand:
Two Licensed Trades Required
Your waterproofing project now requires coordination between two separate licensed professionals:
- The licensed plumber installs the puddle flange first, ensuring proper positioning, recessing, fall, and connection to the drainage system
- The licensed waterproofer then waterproofs over and around the installed flange, creating the watertight envelope
This sequential workflow means more careful project coordination than before.
Cost Implications
The policy change adds some cost to projects:
- Additional trade callout: Plumber site visit adds approximately $150-$300
- Installation time: Puddle flange installation and recessing typically takes 1-2 hours at plumber rates
- Coordination: Potential slight timeline extensions due to multiple trade scheduling
For a typical Brisbane bathroom renovation, expect puddle flange installation to add $200-$500 to your total project cost. While this isn't insignificant, it's a relatively small percentage of overall waterproofing and tiling investment—and far less than the cost of fixing non-compliant work later.
Timeline Considerations
The sequential nature creates scheduling dependencies:
- The plumber must complete flange installation before the waterproofer can proceed with membrane application
- If the plumber's work is delayed, the waterproofer cannot continue
- Projects require advance planning and coordination between trades
Well-managed projects with established trade relationships shouldn't see significant delays. However, last-minute bookings or poorly coordinated scheduling can create frustrating gaps in your project timeline.
Compliance Documentation
The new policy affects documentation requirements:
- The plumber must provide certification for the regulated drainage work, including flange installation
- The waterproofer provides separate certification for waterproofing membrane installation and flood testing
- Building certifiers may request both sets of documentation for approval and sign-off
- Homeowners should retain all paperwork for warranty claims, insurance purposes, and future property sales
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
Some contractors or homeowners might be tempted to continue with the old practice—after all, it worked fine for decades. But non-compliance with current QBCC policy carries serious risks:
For Contractors
- QBCC penalties including fines and disciplinary action for working outside license scope
- Insurance coverage may be voided—work performed without appropriate licensing typically isn't covered
- Professional reputation damage with certifiers, builders, and clients
- Significant legal liability exposure if installation fails and causes damage
For Homeowners
- Warranties voided—both contractor workmanship warranties and product manufacturer warranties become invalid
- Insurance claim complications—if water damage occurs, insurers may deny claims if work wasn't performed by appropriately licensed trades
- Building approval issues—non-compliant work may require complete remediation before building certifiers provide final sign-off
- Property sale disclosure—known non-compliant work typically must be disclosed when selling, potentially affecting property value
The Cost of Non-Compliance
The cost of non-compliance far exceeds the few hundred dollars saved. If something goes wrong, you could face complete project remediation, legal disputes, and insurance complications costing tens of thousands to resolve.
How Spartan Waterproofing Handles This Change
At Spartan Waterproofing, we've fully adapted our processes to ensure complete compliance with the new QBCC policy while minimizing any impact on our Brisbane clients:
Established Plumbing Partnerships
We work with trusted, licensed plumbers who understand waterproofing requirements and coordinate seamlessly with our team. Your project moves smoothly from plumbing to waterproofing phases without unnecessary delays.
Comprehensive, Transparent Quoting
Our quotes clearly outline both the plumbing components (puddle flange installation) and waterproofing components. You'll see exactly what each licensed trade is responsible for, with no hidden fees or surprises.
Project Coordination Management
We manage all scheduling and coordination between trades on your behalf. You don't need to juggle multiple contractors or worry about who does what—we handle the logistics and keep your project on track.
Complete Documentation
We ensure you receive all necessary compliance documentation:
- Plumber certification for regulated drainage work
- Spartan Waterproofing compliance documentation for membrane installation
- Comprehensive flood test results with photographic evidence
- Product data sheets and warranty information
- Installation photos documenting each stage
Quality Assurance Verification
Before we begin waterproofing membrane application, we verify the puddle flange has been installed correctly with proper recessing, appropriate drainage fall, and correct positioning. This prevents problems before they can develop.
Practical Advice for Queensland Homeowners
If you're planning any waterproofing work, here's how to navigate the new requirements successfully:
Before Your Project Starts
- Ask about compliance: Confirm your waterproofer is aware of and complying with the 2025 QBCC policy
- Verify licensing: Check both waterproofing and plumbing licenses are current at qbcc.qld.gov.au
- Clarify coordination: Understand who's managing the scheduling between trades
- Review quotes carefully: Ensure puddle flange installation is explicitly included in scope and pricing
During Project Execution
- Verify appropriate licensing: Confirm the person installing your puddle flange holds a current plumbing license
- Request documentation: Get plumber certification for drainage work before waterproofing proceeds
- Document with photos: Take your own photos of each stage, including the installed flange before waterproofing covers it
- Don't hesitate to ask questions: Professional contractors will gladly explain their compliance approach
After Project Completion
- Collect all paperwork: Obtain all compliance certificates, flood test results, and warranties
- Store documentation securely: Keep records safe for future reference, warranty claims, or property sales
- Understand warranty coverage: Know what's covered under the plumbing warranty versus the waterproofing warranty
The Bottom Line
The 2025 QBCC policy change regarding puddle flange installation isn't the end of the world—it's a regulatory adjustment requiring professional adaptation. Yes, it adds modest cost and requires better coordination. But it also ensures that critical drainage connections are handled by appropriately trained and licensed professionals.
After 25 years of fixing other people's waterproofing failures, I can tell you with absolute certainty that proper installation by qualified tradespeople is always worth the investment. The few hundred dollars extra for compliant puddle flange installation is nothing compared to the $15,000-$30,000 you could spend rectifying water damage from improper installation.
The key is working with contractors who understand current requirements, have established relationships with other licensed trades, and prioritize compliance over cutting corners.
At Spartan Waterproofing, we've fully integrated these requirements into our workflow. Our Brisbane clients receive compliant, properly documented work without the hassle of managing multiple contractors themselves.
Common Questions About the Policy Change
Q: Can I install my own puddle flange as a homeowner?
A: No. Under Queensland law, puddle flange installation is classified as regulated drainage work that must be carried out by a licensed plumber. Homeowner exemptions that apply to some building work do not extend to regulated plumbing and drainage work.
Q: What if my waterproofer says they can still install push-fit flanges?
A: They're either unaware of the 2025 policy change or willing to operate outside current licensing requirements. Either situation is concerning and suggests you should use a different contractor.
Q: Does this apply to balcony and external drainage points too?
A: Yes, absolutely. Any puddle flange connecting to the regulated drainage system requires installation by a licensed plumber, whether it's in bathrooms, laundries, balconies, or terraces.
Q: Will this policy change back?
A: It's possible but uncertain. The AIW is working with the QBCC to potentially adjust the policy. However, regulatory changes are slow and unpredictable. You must comply with current requirements regardless of potential future adjustments.
Q: How much more will this cost my bathroom renovation?
A: For a standard Brisbane bathroom renovation, typically $200-$500 additional. This covers the licensed plumber's site visit, installation time (1-2 hours), proper recessing of the flange, and appropriate connection to drainage.
Q: What documentation should I receive?
A: You should receive plumber certification for the drainage work (including puddle flange installation), waterproofing compliance certification from your licensed waterproofer, comprehensive flood test documentation with photographs and dates, and product information sheets for both drainage components and waterproofing materials used.
Q: Can the plumber and waterproofer visit on the same day?
A: Technically yes, if carefully coordinated. However, the plumber must complete flange installation and allow any adhesives or sealants to cure properly before the waterproofer can proceed. In practice, most Brisbane projects schedule these as separate visits to ensure adequate curing time.
Q: What if my project is already underway with a waterproofer installing the flange?
A: Stop work immediately and engage a licensed plumber to complete or redo the installation to ensure compliance. Continuing with non-compliant work exposes you to voided warranties, insurance complications, and building approval problems.
Need Compliant Waterproofing for Your Brisbane Project?
At Spartan Waterproofing, every project we undertake is completed with full compliance to current QBCC requirements and Australian Standards. We coordinate all necessary licensed trades, manage comprehensive documentation, and deliver properly installed, thoroughly tested waterproofing systems.
With QBCC license 15456097, 25 years of industry experience across Brisbane, and a 5.0-star rating on hipages, we make regulatory compliance simple and straightforward for our clients.
You get complete peace of mind knowing your waterproofing is legally compliant, properly installed, and backed by comprehensive warranties from both your plumber and your waterproofing specialist.
Planning a bathroom renovation, balcony waterproofing, or shower installation? Contact Spartan Waterproofing for a free quote and professional consultation.