What plumbers do
Plumbers install and repair water supply, drainage and sanitation systems: pipes, geysers, basins, toilets, gutters and industrial piping. Work ranges from new-home installations to emergency call-outs, maintenance contracts and large construction projects.
Entry requirements
You can start from Grade 9 through a TVET college NC(V) route, but matric with Mathematics is strongly recommended for the NATED route and for apprenticeship applications. Practical aptitude, physical fitness and reliability matter as much as academics.
Training routes
- Apprenticeship — the classic route: work under a qualified plumber while attending training blocks. Funded by the employer with SETA support, ending in the trade test.
- TVET college route — study Plumbing N1–N6 or NC(V) Civil Engineering and Building Construction, then complete the practical component through workplace experience or a learnership.
- Learnership route — structured learnerships combine the qualification and workplace experience with a stipend.
Trade test and registration
Qualification requires passing the national trade test at an accredited centre. After the trade test you can register with the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB), which is increasingly required to issue Certificates of Compliance for plumbing work — the equivalent of the electrical CoC. Registered plumbers doing compliant work are the ones insurers and property buyers recognise.
Salary expectations
Apprentices earn a training allowance. Qualified plumbers typically earn from around R12,000–R20,000 per month employed, with experienced and specialised plumbers earning more. Self-employed plumbers set their own rates and can earn substantially more once established. See our plumber salary guide for ranges.
Career progression
- Apprentice → Qualified plumber (trade tested + PIRB registered)
- Specialise: solar water heating, industrial piping, gas installation (with additional registration)
- Site supervisor → project manager → estimator
- Start your own plumbing business — one of the most common artisan entrepreneur paths