ESV and PIC (Plumbing Industry Commission)

ESV and PIC work together as regulators of the gas industry

For all enquiries relating to the PIC, please call the PIC on 1300 815 127

Who does what?

ESV is the gas safety authority for Victoria.

The Plumbing Industry Commission is the authority for plumbing-related matters. PIC is also the licensing authority for plumbers and gasfitters. For a number of years, plumbers and gasfitters have been allowed to self-certify certain classes of gasfitting work. Known as Standard Gas Installations, these are audited by the PIC on behalf of ESV. In certain situations the perceived risk for gas installations is higher. These are deemed to be Complex Gas Installations and are inspected on a near 100% basis by ESV.

In general, domestic and light commercial premises are Standard Installations. All others are Complex Installations, including high rise buildings, schools and hospitals etc.

On completion of a Standard Installation, a Compliance Certificate is issued to the customer.

On completion of a Complex Installation, a Gasfitting (Compliance) Notice is to be lodged with ESV.

Both Authorities are able to investigate incidents and complaints, but generally, ESV specialises in gas matters, whereas PIC investigates multiple complaints and those relating to poor workmanship (such as leaking roofs, and drainage problems).