In the wake of the recent severe storms, health and safety must remain a key priority for homeowners.

Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) is warning people not to become complacent and to place plumbing checks at the top of the priority list along with electrical work.

MPAQ President, Mr Kent Vickers, said “checking the property’s plumbing, drainage, gas and roofing needs to be a priority after such events if public health is to be safeguarded. I would urge people now facing the daunting task of a post-storm clean up to pay particular attention to those key plumbing issues that can impact health and safety.”

Mr Vickers said residents need to contact a licensed Master Plumber to check on:
• Drainage or septic overflows
• Silted or blocked drains
• Hail damage to gas regulators and/or pipework
• Solar water heater or PV panels on roofs may be damaged during hail events
• Roof/skylight damage/leaks and hail damage to metal or tiled roofs
• Tank water and other alternate water systems should also be checked for debris/contamination
• Gutter blockages – leaves/debris

Mr Vickers said residents will also need to be cautious of downpipes that are connected to underground stormwater drains that may be blocked with silt. Any further rain may overflow from the gutters as the water cannot drain away, flooding the house.
In the case of significant damage, where you may need to replace plumbing fixtures and/or fittings, people should be mindful that all plumbing work will need to be done by a licensed person.

Residents and home owners can contact MPAQ from Monday to Friday on 07 3273 0800 to locate a licensed Master Plumber in their area or visit www.mpaq.com.au/find-a-plumber.

Consumers are also being told to beware of scammers offering repairs or services in the wake of the wild weather and should call a Master Plumber as they hold the appropriate plumbing QBCC licenses.