Sidney & Richardson | Plumber Ballina
“Plumbing excellence isn’t just about fixing pipes. It’s about building lasting relationships through an unwavering commitment to quality and integrity — The Richardson family, since 1968”
As accredited Master Plumbers (Certificate CA No. A2320) and proud members of the MBA and MPA, we are held to the highest industry standards. You get quality you can verify, not just take our word for.
Quality Workmanship — Every Single Job
From a leaking tap to a full commercial fit-out, we bring the same care and craftsmanship to every job. Done right the first time - that is the Sidney & Richardson standard.
Over 57 Years of Proven Experience
Operating since 1968, we’ve built a reputation that spans generations. When you call Sidney & Richardson, you’re backed by more than five decades of expertise and a name Ballina locals have trusted for generations.
Why Northern Rivers Homeowners Have Trusted Us Since 1968
No hidden costs or upselling. We provide clear pricing upfront and honest advice so you can make the right decision for your home or business. What we quote is what you pay.
Upfront Pricing & Honest Advice
We’re not just based here; we’re invested in the community. We proudly support the Ballina Seagulls Junior Rugby League Club, and our team lives and works across the Northern Rivers.
Local Legends Supporting Locals
All our plumbers are fully licensed, insured, and up to date with Australian standards, so you can feel confident your job is completed safely and professionally.
Fully Licensed & Insured
Professional Plumbing Services in Ballina and the Northern Rivers
Sidney & Richardson are your local licensed plumbers in Ballina, serving homeowners and businesses across the Northern Rivers since 1968. We handle everything from emergency plumbing and blocked drains to hot water systems, gas fitting, roofing, and guttering — with upfront pricing, fully licensed, and Master Plumbers accreditation (CA No. A2320). When you need a plumber near you in Ballina, we're ready.
As a locally owned and operated business, we understand what Ballina properties need. Our services cover everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs through to complex drainage work, hot water system installations, emergency callouts, bathroom and kitchen renovation plumbing, and full project builds. We work with homeowners managing ageing infrastructure, businesses that rely on dependable plumbing day to day, and property managers overseeing commercial and industrial sites throughout Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, and Evans Head.
If you are looking for a plumber near you in Ballina or anywhere across the Northern Rivers, we are ready to help. Call us now on (02) 6686 2555 and speak directly with our team. For non-urgent enquiries, submit an online request and we will get back to you the same business day.
Sidney & Richardson provides 24/7 licensed plumbing across Ballina with over 57 years of local experience, upfront pricing, and expert solutions built for our coastal environment.
What We Help With
Our Ballina plumbing team handles it all, including:
- Dripping taps and tap replacement
- Blocked drains and drain clearing
- Hot water system repairs and replacements
- Toilet repairs and running toilet fixes
- Pipe relining and sewer repairs
- Stormwater drainage solutions
- Leak detection
- Full renovation plumbing for new builds and extensions
- Backflow prevention testing for commercial properties
- Same-day emergency service for urgent plumbing jobs
- Water Pump Repairs and maintenance
We service Ballina, East Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, and the wider Northern Rivers region.
Top Rated 24/7 Emergency Plumber in Ballina
Sidney & Richardson are your local licensed plumbers in Ballina, serving homeowners and businesses across the Northern Rivers since 1968. We handle everything from emergency plumbing and blocked drains to hot water systems, gas fitting, roofing, and guttering — with upfront pricing, fully licensed, and Master Plumbers accreditation (CA No. A2320). When you need a plumber near you in Ballina, we're ready.
As a locally owned and operated business, we understand what Ballina properties need. Our services cover everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs through to complex drainage work, hot water system installations, emergency callouts, bathroom and kitchen renovation plumbing, and full project builds. We work with homeowners managing ageing infrastructure, businesses that rely on dependable plumbing day to day, and property managers overseeing commercial and industrial sites throughout Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, and Evans Head.
If you are looking for a plumber near you in Ballina or anywhere across the Northern Rivers, we are ready to help. Call us now on (02) 6686 2555 and speak directly with our team. For non-urgent enquiries, submit an online request and we will get back to you the same business day.
Sidney & Richardson provides 24/7 licensed plumbing across Ballina with over 57 years of local experience, upfront pricing, and expert solutions built for our coastal environment.
Plumbing
Blocked Drains
Slow or blocked drains fixed fast. Using the latest equipment, we locate and clear blockages with minimal disruption to your home or business.
Commercial Plumbing
Licensed for specialised commercial plumbing, we deliver reliable solutions for businesses of all sizes — on time, on budget, and built to last.
Emergencies
Plumbing emergencies don't wait — and neither do we. Sidney & Richardson responds quickly when you need it most, minimising damage and stress.
Hot Water Systems
Supply, installation, and repairs for all hot water systems. Whether it's gas, electric, or solar, we'll keep your hot water flowing reliably year-round.
Leak Detection
Hidden leaks cause serious damage. Our non-invasive detection technology pinpoints problems accurately — saving you time, money, and unnecessary excavation.
Pipe Relining
Restore damaged pipes without the dig. Our pipe relining solutions extend the life of your pipework quickly, cleanly, and with minimal disruption to your property.
Stormwater
Protect your property from water damage with our stormwater design, installation, and maintenance services — engineered to handle whatever the weather brings.
Water Pump Repairs
From pressure problems to complete pump failure, our team diagnoses and repairs all water pump types — keeping your water supply consistent and dependable.
Gas Fitting
Gas Fitter
Fully licensed gas fitters you can trust. We handle installations, repairs, and safety inspections for residential and commercial gas systems — done safely, done right.
Roofing
Roofing Services
From repairs to full replacements, we deliver quality roofing work that protects your property. Trusted workmanship, backed by over 55 years of hands-on experience.
Guttering
Blocked, leaking, or damaged gutters? We supply, install, and repair guttering systems that channel water away efficiently — keeping your home safe and dry.
Plumbing in Ballina — Quick Answers
Who is the best local plumber in Ballina?
Sidney & Richardson are Ballina's most experienced local plumbing team, family-owned and operating since 1968. With over 57 years serving the Northern Rivers — from Ballina and Lennox Head to Alstonville and Wollongbar — we're one of the region's longest-running licensed plumbing businesses. We hold Master Plumbers accreditation (CA No. A2320) and comply with all NSW Fair Trading and Ballina Shire Council requirements.
How much does a plumber cost in Ballina?
The cost of a plumber in Ballina varies depending on the job. Simple tasks like clearing a blocked drain or replacing a tap can range from $150–$350+. Hot water system installations typically start from $2,200+ depending on unit type. At Sidney & Richardson, we provide a clear, upfront quote before any work begins — no hidden fees, no surprises. Contact us for a free no-obligation quote specific to your job.
Do you offer emergency plumbing in Ballina?
Yes — we provide emergency plumbing services to Ballina homeowners and businesses. If you've got a burst pipe, gas leak, blocked sewer, or no hot water, our radio-controlled fleet can respond quickly with fully equipped vans. For urgent plumbing emergencies in the Ballina area, call us directly on (02) 6686 2555 to speak with our team right away.
What areas near Ballina do you service?
We service Ballina and the surrounding Northern Rivers region, including East Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Cumbalum, Skennars Head, Tintenbar, and surrounds.
What should I do if I suspect a gas leak or plumbing emergency?
If you suspect a gas leak, leave the property immediately and call your gas provider to shut off supply. For other emergencies like burst pipes or blocked sewers, turn off the water at the main valve if it's safe to do so. Then call Sidney & Richardson on (02) 6686 2555. Our Ballina team will walk you through next steps and dispatch a licensed plumber to your property as quickly as possible.
With Ballina's flood risk, what plumbing precautions should I take?
Ballina homeowners in flood-prone areas should ensure their stormwater drainage is clear and functional before wet season, have backflow prevention devices inspected annually, and get their sewer system checked for groundwater infiltration after major flood events. Sidney & Richardson have been working with Northern Rivers properties through floods and coastal conditions for over five decades — we know what to look for and how to protect your home.
Understanding Ballina Plumbing Services
Professional plumbing in Ballina goes well beyond fixing a leaky tap. Our work includes certified gas fitting, backflow prevention, roof plumbing, stormwater and sewer systems, drainage planning, CCTV pipe inspection, and comprehensive hot water system services. All our work complies with the NSW Plumbing Code of Australia, Australian Standards AS/NZS 3500, and licensing requirements under NSW Fair Trading.
What sets Ballina plumbing apart from other regions is the local environment. Our proximity to the Richmond River and Lake Ainsworth, combined with high rainfall, flood-prone zones, reactive clay soils, and salt-laden coastal air, creates conditions that accelerate corrosion, complicate stormwater design, and cause pipe movement that plumbers working in inland areas rarely encounter. When you choose a local plumber who genuinely knows Ballina, you are choosing someone who has already solved these problems hundreds of times over.
Residential Plumbing Solutions
Our residential plumbing services cover leak detection across roofs, underfloor areas, and outdoor fixtures, along with tap and fixture replacement, hot water system installation and servicing, burst pipe repairs, toilet and basin work, guttering, and rainwater harvesting systems.
Keeping your home's water systems in good shape is about more than comfort. Regular plumbing maintenance prevents costly repairs and protects your property from water damage. We advise Ballina homeowners to check external fixtures for rust, maintain proper ventilation in wet areas, and keep drains and gutters clear of debris, particularly after storm events.
Residential plumbing is focused on efficiency, comfort, and protecting the long-term value of your home. Whether it is a dripping tap, a failing hot water system, or a blocked drain causing grief on a Sunday morning, we are ready to help.
Commercial Plumbing Expertise
Commercial plumbing demands a different approach. Higher capacity pipework, commercial-grade fixtures, grease traps, complex drainage systems, fire services compliance, and strict workplace health and safety requirements are all part of the job. We work with multi-storey buildings, body corporates, hospitality venues, retail outlets, and industrial sites throughout Ballina and the Northern Rivers.
Commercial water systems experience much greater wear from higher flow rates and must meet strict certification standards. Our team handles specialised services including backflow prevention devices and thermostatic mixing valves. For commercial clients, any plumbing disruption affects daily operations and revenue, so fast response and durable solutions are not optional extras but core to what we deliver.
Understanding the difference between residential and commercial requirements helps you identify exactly what your property needs, which brings us to the full range of services.
Essential Plumbing Services in Ballina
Drawing on our residential and commercial expertise, we provide a complete range of plumbing services designed specifically for Ballina conditions. Each of the following services addresses real problems we encounter regularly throughout the Northern Rivers.
Emergency Plumbing Response
Plumbing emergencies do not wait for business hours. Our emergency plumbing service covers burst pipes, gas leaks, and severe blockages. Our fully equipped service vehicles carry emergency shut-off valves, gas detection equipment, and temporary repair materials, so we can stop damage the moment we arrive on site. In a coastal and flood-prone area like Ballina, water damage escalates quickly.
Left unaddressed, even a moderate burst pipe can lead to structural issues, mould growth, and very expensive repairs. If you notice leaking taps, slow-draining sinks, gurgling pipes, low water pressure, or unpleasant odours, do not wait. These are early warning signs that something needs attention from a licensed plumber. Call us now on (02) 6686 2555. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and public holidays across Ballina and the Northern Rivers.
Hot Water System Services
We install, repair, and service all hot water system types, including electric, gas, solar, and heat pump systems, helping you choose the right capacity and technology for your property and budget.
Under Australian standards, a tempering valve is mandatory on all hot water systems to prevent scalding and ensure safe water temperatures throughout the home.
Ballina's salt air increases corrosion risk on external hot water unit components. We recommend positioning units in sheltered locations where possible, or specifying marine-grade materials for exposed coastal installations. Our maintenance service includes sediment flushing, safety device checks, rust inspection, and gas connection verification -- giving you reliable hot water year-round while keeping energy costs down.
Blocked Drain Solutions
Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing issues we see in Ballina. Root intrusion, sand ingress, organic matter, and debris washed in during heavy rainfall all contribute to blockages throughout the Northern Rivers. Common signs include slow-draining sinks, gurgling toilets, and unpleasant odours coming from drains.
We use CCTV camera inspection to locate obstructions or pipe damage, then deploy high-pressure hydro-jetting, root cutting, or mechanical augers to clear the blockage completely.
Preventative drain maintenance, including regular inspections and fitting drain covers, helps avoid sewage backups, protects your property from water damage, and eliminates the health hazards associated with slow or blocked drainage.
Bathroom & Kitchen Renovation Plumbing
Whether you are updating a tired ensuite, completing a full bathroom renovation, or reconfiguring your kitchen layout, reliable renovation plumbing is what keeps the project on time and on budget. We work directly with homeowners and their builders, managing all rough-in plumbing, waste connections, hot and cold water supply, and final fixture installations.
Our experience with Ballina's older housing stock means we are well prepared for the surprises that come with renovation work -- outdated pipe materials, non-standard configurations, and connections that do not quite meet current Australian standards. We identify these issues early and fix them properly, so your renovation is not held up by plumbing problems that could have been avoided.
Our Ballina Plumbing Service Process
Every job we take on follows a clear, structured process designed to give you honest advice, a realistic quote, and quality workmanship from start to finish. Whether you need an emergency repair or scheduled maintenance, you will know exactly what is happening at every stage.
Assessment and Quotation
We offer free assessments with upfront quotes so there are no hidden fees for residential work and many commercial projects. For major work, we issue a certificate of compliance, and our workmanship is backed by a 12-month warranty.
Our process works like this:
1
Initial Contact
You reach us by phone or online enquiry. Tell us about your issue, your location, and how urgent it is.
2
Site Visit
A licensed plumber arrives to inspect the problem, assess the scope, identify any environmental risks, and note any regulatory requirements.
3
Detailed Quote
We provide a full cost breakdown covering labour, parts, and any compliance approvals required, along with a realistic time estimate.
4
Customer Approval
Once you are happy with the quote, we schedule the work and arrange any required permits or council notices.
Service Comparison
| Criterion | Emergency Service | Standard Service | Maintenance Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Response Time | 1 to 2 hours depending on severity | Within 24 to 48 hours | Pre-scheduled appointments |
| Availability | 24/7 including weekends and public holidays | Business hours plus after-hours support | Booked maintenance windows |
| Cost Structure | Premium rates for urgent callouts | Fixed labour plus parts at standard rates | Subscription or flat rate per inspection |
| Scope of Work | Immediate repair to stop damage | Full repair or new installation | Inspection, cleaning, minor repairs |
| Regulatory Requirements | Emergency works proceed with compliance; approvals may be deferred for like-for-like replacement | Full compliance, approvals, and inspections | Ensures ongoing compliance of installed devices |
This comparison helps you choose the right level of service for your situation. Next, we cover the specific challenges that make Ballina plumbing unique.
Common Ballina Plumbing Challenges and Solutions
Ballina's coastal location and local environmental conditions create plumbing challenges that require genuine local knowledge. Our team has spent decades developing solutions tailored specifically to these conditions.
Coastal Corrosion Issues
Salt air carries high chloride levels that accelerate corrosion on galvanised steel, standard copper, and brass fittings not rated for marine exposure. Outdoor taps, hot water systems, and gas lines are particularly vulnerable. Early warning signs include rust staining, flaking metal, slow leaks, pitting on fittings, and discoloured water at the tap.
Our preventive approach includes installing marine-grade stainless steel, specifying brass with protective finishes, applying powder-coated or corrosion-resistant coatings, and ensuring external fixtures are properly sealed or sheltered. We also recommend shorter replacement cycles for external components in coastal locations and regular cleaning to catch surface rust before it causes a full leak.
Ageing Infrastructure Problems
Many Ballina homes were built decades ago using materials and layouts designed for far lower water demands. Older pipes can have compromised strength, loosened joints, or outdated materials such as lead solder joints, galvanised steel, or cast iron that no longer meet Australian standards.
Our solutions include full pipe relining or replacement using modern materials like PEX, PVC, or HDPE, particularly under slabs and in crawlspaces. We upgrade fixtures to more efficient appliances, install larger diameter pipes where flow capacity is inadequate, and use leak detection technology including ultrasonic and thermal imaging to identify hidden problems
before they become major expenses.
For properties on septic systems, regular maintenance is essential to ensure efficient operation, avoid unpleasant odours, and stay compliant with local regulations. Signs of septic issues include slow drains, gurgling sounds, and odours near the drain field.
Flood Damage Prevention
Parts of Ballina are subject to flooding from rainfall events, storm surges, and rising river levels. Plumbing in flood-affected areas must account for backflow prevention valves in sewer and stormwater systems, elevated fixtures, correct drainage grading, overflow relief, non-return valves, and sump pumps where necessary.
During past Northern Rivers flood events, many homes experienced sewer backups that proper backflow prevention could have avoided. Installing non-return valves and elevating fixtures above predicted flood levels protects your property from contaminated water intrusion and is one of the most cost-effective investments a Ballina homeowner can make.
Serving Ballina and the Northern Rivers
We Know This Region
As your local plumber, Sidney & Richardson provides licensed plumbing, gas fitting, and roof plumbing services across Ballina and the broader Northern Rivers region. From our base in Ballina, we service residential, commercial, and industrial properties throughout the region, including Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Evans Head, Lismore, Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores, Wardell, Coraki, and the surrounding communities.
Whether you are a homeowner in Bangalow needing a hot water system replacement, a business in Lismore requiring a commercial drainage solution, a property buyer in Byron Bay wanting a pre-purchase plumbing inspection, or a property manager in Evans Head dealing with a plumbing emergency, we have the local knowledge and fully equipped service vehicles to get to you fast.
Our familiarity with Northern Rivers conditions -- from the flood-prone lowlands along the Richmond River corridor through to the hinterland properties serviced by septic systems -- means we bring relevant, practical experience to every job. We understand local council requirements, the environmental challenges specific to coastal and subtropical properties, and the infrastructure quirks that come with both heritage homes and newer developments across the region.
If you are searching for a plumber near you anywhere across Ballina or the Northern Rivers, give us a call. Chances are we have already worked in your street.
Plumbing Cost Guide for Ballina, NSW
The figures below reflect current Ballina and Northern Rivers market rates and are provided as a realistic reference point. All pricing is GST inclusive and subject to on-site assessment. For an accurate quote on your specific job, contact us directly and we will arrange a free assessment.
| Service | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Emergency Call-Out (After Hours) | $220 - $420+ |
| Blocked Drain Clearing | $180 - $570+ |
| CCTV Drain Inspection | $250 - $470+ |
| Leaking Tap or Toilet Repair | $150 - $330+ |
| Toilet Replacement | $450 - $920+ |
| Burst Pipe Repair | $300 - $870+ |
| Hot Water System Repair | $220 - $520+ |
| Hot Water System Replacement | $2,200 - $4,600+ |
| Gas Fitting / Leak Detection | $220 - $500+ |
| Backflow Prevention Testing | $220 - $420+ |
| Bathroom Renovation Plumbing (Labour Only) | $3,500 - $8,800+ |
| Roof and Gutter Plumbing Repairs | $400 - $1,250+ |
At
Sidney & Richardson, we provide upfront, itemised quotes covering labour, materials, and any compliance requirements before we start work. There are no hidden fees, and for major installations we issue a certificate of compliance and back our workmanship warranty.
Your Next Steps
Sidney & Richardson has been delivering reliable plumbing across Ballina and the Northern Rivers for over 57 years. Our services cover residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing needs -- from emergency repairs and blocked drain clearing through to hot water system installation, gas fitting, bathroom and kitchen renovation plumbing, pre-purchase inspections, and roof plumbing.
To protect your property and get the right outcome, here are your next steps:
Call or Contact Us
Ring us on
(02) 6686 2555 or
submit an online enquiry describing your plumbing concern. We will get back to you the same business day for non-urgent requests, or immediately for genuine emergencies.
Free On-Site Assessment
We arrange a site visit, inspect the problem, and provide you with a clear, itemised quote before any work begins.
Schedule the Right Service
Based on our assessment, we book emergency, standard, or maintenance work to suit your timeline and budget.
Ongoing Preventive Maintenance
A regular inspection schedule catches corrosion, blockages, and wear before they become costly problems. Ask us about setting up a maintenance plan for your property.
Beyond plumbing, we also provide gas fitting and roof plumbing services for clients who prefer a single trusted contractor across multiple trades. Our roof plumbing expertise complements our drainage and stormwater work particularly well for properties needing integrated solutions for guttering, stormwater management, and roof drainage.
Additional Resources
Local Council Plumbing Requirements
All plumbing and drainage work in Ballina Shire must comply with the Plumbing Code of Australia and Australian Standards AS/NZS 3500.
Work connecting or disconnecting from council-owned sewer, stormwater, or water infrastructure requires a Section 68 application through Ballina Shire Council. Minor like-for-like replacements without new fixtures may be exempt. Licensed plumbers must lodge a Notice of Work at least two business days before commencing work. In dual water supply areas, cross-connection audits and compliance with Ballina's Dual Water Supply Plumbing Policy are mandatory.
Emergency Contact Procedures
Before we arrive for an emergency, take these steps to minimise damage:
- Locate and turn off your water main if you have a burst pipe or major leak
- If you smell gas, evacuate the property immediately, avoid using any electrical switches, and call us from outside the building
- For blocked drains causing overflow, stop using water and do not flush toilets
- Clear access to the affected area where possible
- Note when the problem started and any unusual signs you have observed
Maintenance Checklists for Preventing Common Issues
Plumbers in Ballina offer a broad range of residential and commercial services, including 24/7 emergency response and blocked drain clearing. Contact Sidney & Richardson to discuss your plumbing needs and connect with our team for reliable, licensed service across the Northern Rivers.
Quarterly Tasks
- Clear gutters and downpipes of debris
- Check outdoor taps and fixtures for rust or dripping
- Inspect visible pipes under sinks for leaks or corrosion
- Test hot water temperature and pressure relief valve operation
Annual Tasks
- Schedule a professional drain inspection and clean
- Have your hot water system serviced, including a sediment flush
- Inspect roof plumbing and stormwater drainage
- Check backflow prevention devices if installed
- Review gas appliance condition and connections
A Trusted Reputation on the Northern Rivers
When locals in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers need a reliable plumber they can trust, they come to us at Sidney & Richardson Plumbing. Our customers consistently tell us that what sets us apart is the combination of genuine care, fast response times, and workmanship that holds up long after the job is done.
Across Google, Reddit, Word of Mouth, and other platforms, the positive themes are clear: we show up when we say we will, we keep people informed throughout the job, and we treat every property with respect. Whether it is an emergency gas hot water repair, a blocked drain causing chaos at home, or a new hot water system installation, our customers appreciate that we get in, get it sorted, and get out without a fuss.
We are a second-generation, family-owned business that has been part of the Ballina community since 1968, and that
history of honest, dependable service is something our customers feel every time they call.
Customer Review Themes
Punctual and Reliable
Customers highlight that we turn up when we say we will, particularly for urgent jobs. One customer noted their gas hot water unit was found faulty at 11am and fully replaced by 2pm the same day. Another praised our efficient service, calling it 'very important for plumbing issues.'
Clear Communication
We are consistently praised for keeping people informed and for providing straight talk. Customers appreciate that we explain the issue clearly, give honest advice without jargon or upselling, and make sure they understand what needs to be done and why before work begins.
Transparent Pricing
Multiple reviewers mention that our pricing is competitive and that there are no nasty surprises. We provide upfront estimates and clear quotes before commencing work, so customers know exactly where they stand before we pick up a spanner.
Quality Workmanship
Customers across Ballina and the wider Northern Rivers area describe our work as first-rate, professional, and done right the first time. Reviewers consistently note that our team brings experience, the right equipment, and a practical, commonsense approach to every job.
Goes Above and Beyond
Several customers recall moments where we went well beyond what was expected. From calling multiple suppliers to track down a hard-to-find part, to fixing a lawn issue caused by a pipe leak at no charge, we consistently demonstrate that we genuinely care about the outcome for our customers.
Honest and Genuine
A recurring theme across platforms is that we are rare to find as an honest and genuine local business. Customers use words like 'caring,' 'genuine,' and 'number one' when describing their experience, and many say they would not hesitate to use us again or to recommend us to friends and family.
No Job Too Small
Customers appreciate that we treat every job with the same level of care, whether it is a dripping tap, a set of washers, or a full hot water system installation. One reviewer on Localsearch noted: 'No job too small, they came out and installed the electric hot water system at a competitive rate.'
Local Knowledge
As a Ballina-based, family-owned business operating since 1968, customers trust us because we genuinely know the local area, its coastal conditions, its council requirements, and its community. Our deep local knowledge is something reviewers specifically call out as a point of difference.
Tidy and Respectful On Site
Customers comment on our friendly and respectful manner on site. Reviewers describe our team as professional and genuine, and note that we treat their homes and businesses with care. One customer specifically highlighted our 'generous gesture' of fixing a lawn issue caused by a leaking pipe at no charge.
After-Sales Support
Customers note that when queries arise after a job, we address them promptly and without fuss. One Word of Mouth reviewer specifically mentioned that when they had a query on their bill, we looked into it and fixed the problem without delay.
What Our Customers Commonly Say
Here is a curated selection of review excerpts from real customers across Ballina and the wider Northern Rivers region.
"Great responsive service to a difficult situation where the gas hot water unit stopped working. Found out at 11am and fixed and replaced by 2pm the same day. Thank you so much Brad and team!"
"Absolutely amazing service! I needed a part and although they did not have it, they called everyone in the area to find one for us. I highly recommend Sidney and Richardson to anyone in the Ballina area. If I could give more stars I would!"
"Rare to find such honest and genuine customer service, and this company is number one!"
"I had a very pleasant experience when my problem, a hole in my lawn caused by a leak in a pipe, was fixed at no expense to me. This was not a plumbing job and I appreciated the generous gesture."
"Efficient service, which is very important for plumbing issues. Additionally, a practical and commonsense approach. Friendly local business."
"Good customer service with experienced staff and owners."
"I had a great experience with these guys, very professional and friendly, even on the smallest of jobs. I will definitely call them up again."
"Prompt and efficient. Lets you pay on account. Happy to quote on the work. The one time I did have a query on my bill, they looked into it and fixed the problem without delay."
"We found them to be reliable and efficient. No job too small, they came out and installed the electric hot water system at a competitive rate. Will be using their services again as they are locals and did a great job."
"Great customer service from people who care."
Our Reputation Standards
At Sidney and Richardson Plumbing, our reputation has been built over 55 years by holding ourselves to a consistent set of internal standards on every job, no matter how big or small.
Punctuality
We contact customers before arriving and aim to show up within the agreed appointment window. For genuine plumbing emergencies such as burst pipes or gas leaks, urgent callouts are prioritised and often scheduled as the first job of the day.
Clean-Up Policy
Our tradespeople tidy up as they go and leave each property as clean as they found it. We take pride in the condition we leave your home or business, not just the quality of the plumbing work itself.
Communication Steps
From the initial call through to job completion, we keep customers informed. We explain the problem clearly, walk you through the options, provide upfront pricing before any work commences, and follow up to make sure everything is running properly once we have finished.
Quality Checks
Every job is tested and checked before we pack up and leave. Whether it is a tap washer, a hot water system replacement, or a blocked drain clearance, we confirm the fix is holding before we go.
Warranty and Workmanship Guarantee
We stand behind every job we carry out. All plumbing and gas fitting work is completed by licensed tradespeople and backed by our workmanship guarantee. If something is not right after we have been on site, we come back and sort it out. We are Master Plumbers Certificate holders (CA No. A2320) and comply fully with Ballina Shire Council requirements and NSW Fair Trading standards.
Real Reviews from Local Customers
After calling every local gas fitter with an URGENT request for a service and possible new water heater on the morning of a wedding at our commercial Wedding venue...we contacted our LOCAL Sidney & Richardson who not only said they could organise an immediate service but BRAD our new LOCAL HERO talked us thru possible scenarios that could have affected the non supply of hot water. And finally along with his expert phone instructions and a can of mortein we solved the problem. Happy business, happy bride to be...DOES THIS GUY DESERVE A CARTON OF BEER? We reckon he deserves a carton of CHAMPAGNE. Well done BRAD and well done Sidney and Hacking on having such knowledgeable and obliging staff.
Great responsive service to a difficult situation where the gas HWU stopped working - no hot water, and guests were checked in. Found out at 11am and fixed/replaced by 2pm. Thank you so much Brad and team at Sidney & Richardson!
Absolutely amazing service! I needed a part and although they did not have it, they called everyone in the area to find one for us. I highly recommend Sidney & Richardson Plumbing to anyone in the Ballina area. If I could give more stars I would!!! Rare to find such honest and genuine customer service and this company is number one!!!
I had a very pleasant experience today when my problem (a hole in my lawn caused by a leak in a pipe) was fixed at no expense to me. This was not a plumbing job and I appreciated the generous gesture.
Plumber FAQs for Ballina Homeowners & Businesses
Do you provide 24/7 emergency plumbing in Ballina?
Yes. Sidney & Richardson offers 24/7 emergency plumbing right across Ballina and the Northern Rivers, including weekends and public holidays. For genuine emergencies such as burst pipes, gas leaks, or sewage overflow, call us directly on (02) 6686 2555 and we will prioritise your callout.
How quickly can a plumber get to me in Ballina?
For emergency callouts in the Ballina area, we typically arrive within 2 to 4 hours depending on the severity and our current workload. For standard and non-urgent work, we can usually schedule within 24 to 48 hours. Same-day bookings are available for urgent hot water system failures and similar situations.
Are Sidney & Richardson licensed plumbers in NSW?
Yes. All of our plumbers are fully licensed under NSW Fair Trading and we are accredited Master Plumbers (Certificate CA No. A2320). We carry full public liability insurance and comply with all requirements under the NSW Plumbing Code of Australia and Australian Standards AS/NZS 3500.
Do you provide free quotes for plumbing work in Ballina?
Yes. We provide free on-site assessments for residential work and many commercial projects across Ballina and the Northern Rivers. We give you a clear, itemised quote before any work begins, covering labour, materials, and compliance requirements. What we quote is what you pay.
What areas near Ballina do you service?
We service all suburbs and towns throughout the Northern Rivers, including Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Evans Head, Lismore, Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores, Wardell, Coraki, and the surrounding rural areas. If you are unsure whether we cover your location, just give us a call.
What is a Master Plumber and why does it matter?
A Master Plumber is a licensed plumbing contractor who has met the additional qualification, experience, and insurance requirements to operate their own plumbing business under Australian standards. Master Plumber membership means the business is independently verified and accountable. When you hire a Master Plumber, you have greater protection if something goes wrong, and your work is more likely to meet the certification standards required by your insurer or council.
Do you handle bathroom and kitchen renovation plumbing?
Yes. We provide complete renovation plumbing services for homeowners and builders throughout the Northern Rivers. This includes rough-in plumbing, waste and drainage connections, hot and cold water supply, and final fixture connections. We are experienced with the older housing stock common across Ballina and know how to handle the surprises that renovation work often uncovers.
Can you carry out a plumbing inspection before I buy a property?
Yes. We offer pre-purchase plumbing inspections across Ballina and the Northern Rivers, including a written report covering all visible plumbing, drainage, hot water systems, gas connections, and roof plumbing. This is a smart investment for any property purchase in our region given the age of much of the local housing stock and the demands our coastal environment places on plumbing systems.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept EFTPOS, credit card, and bank transfer. For larger projects, we are happy to discuss staged payment arrangements. Ask us about payment options when we provide your quote.
Do you work on septic systems?
Yes. We service and inspect septic systems throughout the rural and semi-rural areas of the Northern Rivers. Regular maintenance is essential for septic performance and council compliance. Contact us if you are experiencing slow drains, odours near the drain field, or any other signs of septic system issues.
Do you service Lennox Head and Alstonville?
Absolutely. We cover Ballina, East Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Cumbalum and surrounding Northern Rivers areas.
What hot water brands do you install?
We install and service leading brands including Dux, Rheem, and Rinnai across electric, gas, solar and heat pump systems.
Can you help with flood damage plumbing?
Yes. We have 57 years of experience with Northern Rivers flood events — sewer inspection, drainage repair, and backflow prevention are core services.
Do you do commercial plumbing in Ballina?
Yes. We service unit blocks, commercial builds, hospitals, and industrial sites — including fire system installation and backflow prevention.
