Worked example · Plumbers
Plumber invoice example: what a correct one looks like
Below is a filled-in example for a common combination: an after-hours call-out for a burst flexi hose, plus a follow-up hot water system replacement quoted fixed-price. It shows how to mix fixed-price and hourly lines on one Tax Invoice without confusing anyone.
Note how the after-hours surcharge is its own line; burying it in the hourly rate is how disputes start.
The example
Example invoice for a plumber
TAX INVOICE
Harbour City Plumbing
| Description | Qty | Unit (ex GST) | GST | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| After-hours call-out (burst flexi hose, isolate & replace) | 1 | $245.00 | $24.50 | $269.50 |
| Supply & install 250L electric hot water system (fixed price) | 1 | $1,680.00 | $168.00 | $1,848.00 |
| Remove & dispose old unit | 1 | $120.00 | $12.00 | $132.00 |
| Tempering valve replacement | 1 | $145.00 | $14.50 | $159.50 |
| Subtotal (ex GST) | $2,190.00 | |||
| GST | $219.00 | |||
| Total (inc GST) | $2,409.00 | |||
Lic. VIC 110384. Compliance cert #A4471920. Due on receipt.
Want this as a blank fill-in PDF? Grab the free plumber invoice template or skip the paperwork and generate one already filled in, free.
Trade-specific rules
GST notes for plumbers
Plumbing Services: call-out driven work where emergency rates, fixed-price jobs and do-and-charge all appear on the same week's invoices.
- Fixed-price and do-and-charge lines can sit on the same Tax Invoice. GST rules are identical; only your pricing method differs.
- Show after-hours or emergency surcharges as separate lines. It's clearer for the customer and protects you in a fee dispute.
- Your plumbing licence number belongs on the invoice; insurers and real-estate agents ask for it, and compliance certificates should match the invoicing entity.
Related
Before you send it
- Not registered for GST, or not sure? The sole trader invoice template has a no-GST version of this layout, and invoicing without GST in Australia explains what changes on the page.
- Invoicing a builder as a subbie? Read the subcontractor invoice guide for progress claims, variations and retention.
- Tired of retyping your details? The best invoice app for tradies and sole traders compares the apps Aussie plumbers actually use, with current prices.
Fair questions
FAQ
Can I charge for disposing of the old unit?
Yes, as its own line with GST. Dump fees you pay are your cost; what you charge the customer is the taxable amount.
What if a job spans two visits?
Either invoice each visit, or one invoice on completion listing both dates in the descriptions. For bigger jobs, a deposit invoice plus final invoice is standard; each must be ATO-correct on its own.
The customer wants an itemised parts list. Do I have to?
The ATO only requires a description sufficient to identify what was supplied. Itemising parts is a service to the customer (and often worth it), not a legal obligation.
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