FEATURE 23 different person to who is paying for the work, so it is important to have space for two signatures – the account payer and the acceptor.
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Terms and conditions Terms and conditions are one of the most important parts of any plumbing quotation or contract. They protect both the plumber and the client by clearly explaining the rules, responsibilities, limitations and expectations before work begins.
A detailed quotation explains the work and price, but the terms and conditions explain how the work will be managed. Terms and conditions should include:
• Payment terms.
• Deposit requirements.
• Progress payments.
• When final payment is due – practical completion.
• What work is included and excluded.
• Who supplies which materials – plumber versus client. It is important to add that client-supplied materials must be correct, complete, undamaged and available on site when required. State that if incorrect or missing materials cause delays or return visits, additional charges may apply.
• How additional work will be handled – this is done in quote, by having an agreed rate with the client before you start work.
• Site access.
• Services – state whether you will be using their electricity, water and bathroom facilities, etc.
• Working hours.
• Delays – such as weather, services, insurance claims etc.
• Cancellation fees.
• Warranties.
• Guarantees.
• Client responsibilities. NOTE: It is important to clarify that a client
A contract is a written and signed agreement between the client and plumber, confirming the quote and terms and conditions. is responsible for handling the warranty of a product if it fails.
• State that the plumber cannot be held responsible for hidden defects, old pipework, poor previous workmanship or damage discovered once walls, floors, cupboards or ceilings are opened as these are concealed services.
• Variation orders – It is vital to state that any extra work outside the original quotation should be quoted separately and approved in writing before it starts, including additional travel costs.
• How disputes will be handled, such as by arbitration and mediation, and name the person or body you will use for this if possible.
• How contra charges will be handled.
• State that if client-supplied materials are incorrect, damaged, incomplete, or not on site when required, additional labour, delays, or return visits may be charged separately – this should also be referenced in the quote.
• Your handling fee( this is based on many materials that may have already been purchased) should the client decide to cancel.
• Signature space for both the acceptor and the account payer.
Terms and conditions are not just legal wording – they protect the business, manage client expectations, and ensure that plumbing work is completed in a fair and organised manner.
September 2026 Volume 32 I Number 07 www. plumbingafrica. co. za