Plumbing Repairs and Gas Work: What to Know Before You Book
Plumbing repairs and installations, how gas work is handled through Gas Safe registered engineers, what to check before booking and what to send for a quote.
Plumbing problems range from a dripping tap to a full bathroom refit. Gas work is different again: it must, by law, be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. The Local Handyman London Ltd handles plumbing enquiries for homes, landlords and businesses across West London, with gas work carried out through specialist Gas Safe registered partners.
Plumbing we can help with
- Dripping taps and leaking fittings
- Toilet, cistern and flush problems
- Sink, basin and bath replacement
- Visible pipework repairs
- Plumbing as part of kitchen and bathroom refits
- Radiator valve and handle replacement
Concealed leaks, drainage problems and complex systems may need a site visit or a different specialist rather than a price from a photo.
If you have a leak right now
- Turn off the water at the stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink or where the pipe enters the house
- Turn off the electrics if water is near sockets or light fittings
- Catch the water and move valuables away
- Take photos for your insurer and for the plumber
- If you live in a flat, warn the neighbours below
An enquiry does not confirm an emergency appointment. Tell us clearly if water or essential facilities are affected.
Gas work: what you need to know
| Check | Why it matters |
| Gas Safe registration | It is a legal requirement for gas work |
| ID card and expiry date | Confirms the engineer is currently registered |
| Work categories on the card | Each engineer is qualified for specific appliances |
| Domestic or commercial | Domestic registration does not cover commercial catering or plant |
You can check any engineer on the Gas Safe Register website. Never let anyone who is not registered work on gas appliances, and never attempt gas work yourself.
Landlords: annual gas safety checks
Landlords must arrange an annual gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer and give tenants a copy of the record. See our landlord maintenance checklist for the other key checks.
What to send for a plumbing quote
- The fitting affected and what is wrong
- When the problem started
- Photos and your postcode
- For replacements, the product you have bought or want
- Access arrangements, especially in rented or managed properties
Simple plumbing checks you can do yourself
- Know where your stopcock is, and test that it turns
- Look under sinks for drips and damp cupboard bases
- Check the seal around baths and showers for gaps or mould
- Listen for a toilet that keeps running after flushing
- Watch for slow-draining sinks before they block completely
Preventing blocked drains
| Do | Do not |
| Use sink strainers in kitchens and showers | Pour cooking fat or oil down the sink |
| Run hot water after washing up | Flush wipes, even if labelled flushable |
| Clear hair from shower drains regularly | Put food scraps down the sink |
| Use a plunger at the first sign of slow drainage | Use strong chemicals repeatedly |
Replacing taps and fittings
When choosing new taps, toilets or basins, check the fitting type, the number of holes in the sink or basin and the water pressure in your home. Some taps and showers need high pressure to work well. Send product links before buying if you are unsure.
Landlords and plumbing
Landlords are responsible for keeping water supply, drainage and sanitation in working order. Prompt action on leaks also prevents damage to ceilings and floors below, and avoids damp complaints later.
Frequently asked questions
Can you fix a radiator that is not heating?
Often, yes. Start with our guide to radiators that are not heating. Boiler faults need a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Do you install boilers?
Boiler and gas work is carried out through Gas Safe registered partners, with their registration and categories checked for the job.
Can plumbing be part of a bathroom refit?
Yes. Read our renovation planning guide.
How do I find my stopcock?
It is usually under the kitchen sink, near the front door or where the water pipe enters the property. In flats, it may be in a cupboard or a shared area.
Can you replace a toilet or basin?
Yes, like-for-like replacements are common. Send photos and the product you want.
Related guides
- Kitchen and bathroom renovation planning
- How to choose a reliable handyman
- How to unblock a sink, shower or toilet
- How to fix a dripping tap
Prefer to talk? Call 07444 262522.