Plumbing & Gas Problems Every Brisbane Homeowner Should Know (and How to Avoid Them)

If you live in Kedron, Everton Park or Eagle Farm, chances are your plumbing and gas systems are quietly working in the background every day. The problem? When something goes wrong, it can cause major headaches — from burst hoses that flood kitchens to gas leaks that put your family’s safety at risk. At SJK Collective, we’ve helped Brisbane families and businesses through just about every plumbing and gas emergency you can imagine. The good news? Most problems can be spotted early if you know what to look for.

Here’s a simple guide to the most common issues we see, plus a few easy checks you can do at home.

Common Plumbing Issues

  1. Burst Flexible Hoses (“Flexi Hoses”)
    Those little braided hoses under your sinks and toilets don’t look like much, but when they fail, they can flood your entire home in minutes. They’re one of the most common (and expensive) insurance claims in Brisbane. If yours are older than five years, rusty, or bulging, replace them before they fail.
  2. Tree Root Intrusion
    Brisbane’s beautiful trees can be sneaky troublemakers. Roots often find their way into older clay or concrete pipes, causing slow drains, blockages, and even sewer overflows. If you’re noticing regular gurgling sounds or slow drains, it could be time for a camera inspection.
  3. Old or Corroded Pipes
    Many Queenslanders and post-war homes still have original pipes that are now well past their use-by date. Corroded metal or sagging pipes trap waste and create repeat blockages. Modern replacements are longer-lasting and far less hassle in the long run.
  4. Hot Water System Leaks
    A dripping valve or leaking tank can sneak up on you. Check around your hot water unit for continuous drips or puddles. Not only does a leaking system waste water and money, it can also give out completely when you least expect it.

Common Gas Problems

  1. Leaking Appliance Connections
    If you smell gas, it’s always an emergency. Don’t try to fix it yourself. Open the windows, head outside, and call 1800 GAS LEAK (1800 427 532). Once it’s safe, call in a licensed gasfitter to handle the repair properly.
  2. Poorly Maintained Appliances
    Unserviced heaters, cooktops and hot water systems can leak gas or even release carbon monoxide. A quick yearly service keeps everything running safely and efficiently.
  3. Unlicensed Gas Work
    Gas work in Queensland is strictly for licensed professionals, and for good reason. Unlicensed work risks your safety and voids your insurance. Always check your fitter’s licence through the QBCC.

Quick Homeowner Checks (Takes 10–15 Minutes)

  • Water Meter Test: Turn off all taps, note your water meter, wait 1–2 hours, then check again. Movement means a hidden leak.
  • Toilet Dye Test: Add food colouring to your cistern. If the colour shows up in the bowl without flushing, your toilet is leaking.
  • Flexi Hose Check: Look under sinks and toilets. Replace any rusty, bulging or older-than-5-year hoses.
  • Hot Water Unit Check: Look for ongoing drips or pooling water around the unit.
  • Gas Safety Sniff Test: If you smell that rotten-egg odour, ventilate and call the emergency line immediately.

Preventing Bigger Problems

  • Annual Plumbing Check: For older homes in Kedron and Everton Park, a yearly camera inspection and hose replacement is one of the smartest investments you can make.
  • Gas Appliance Servicing: Book an annual service with a licensed gasfitter to keep your home safe.
  • Smart Tree Planning: Avoid planting large trees near pipes, and always Dial Before You Dig (1100) to avoid damaging underground services.

Why Locals Trust SJK Collective

At SJK Collective, we’re not just about fixing leaks, we’re about preventing them. Our team of licensed plumbers and gasfitters deliver reliable, professional service across Kedron, Everton Park, Eagle Farm and the wider Brisbane area. From emergencies to routine maintenance, we bring the experience, tools and local knowledge to get the job done right.

Plumbing Services We Offer:

  • Toilet repairs & leak detection
  • Blocked drains & sewer clearing
  • Hot water system installation & repairs
  • Tree root removal & pipe repairs
  • General maintenance for homes & businesses

Gas Fitting Services We Offer:

  • Gas hot water systems
  • Gas leak detection & emergency response
  • Appliance installations (cooktops, ovens, heaters)
  • Outdoor gas heating & LPG conversions
  • Safety checks & compliance certificates

Stay One Step Ahead

Plumbing and gas problems don’t wait until it’s convenient. A burst hose or hidden leak can strike in the middle of the night, and gas faults require immediate action. That’s why SJK Collective offers fast response times, clear communication, and the peace of mind that comes with fully licensed professionals.

Need help now, or just want the reassurance of a preventative check-up?
Reach out to SJK Collective today and keep your home safe, efficient and problem-free.

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