An unlicensed plumber and drainlayer has been ordered to pay an $8000 fine after carrying out illegal and substandard work across multiple properties in Central Otago, creating potential risks to public health and safety.
According to a report by 1News, Ben DeClifford was found to have completed plumbing and drainlaying jobs at five properties in Wānaka and Cromwell between 2023 and 2025. His work included installing sewerage drains, potable water systems, and a hot water cylinder, despite lacking the required authorisation to perform restricted sanitary plumbing and drainlaying tasks.
Records show that while DeClifford previously held limited exemptions and trainee authorisations between 2015 and 2021, he never secured full registration or a practising licence, according to the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board, as reported by 1News.
A technical review of the installations revealed that the work failed to meet the New Zealand Building Code and posed a moderate risk to public health. Inspectors identified several issues, including incorrectly sized pipes, unsafe placement between drinking water and wastewater systems, and pipework installed beneath concrete slabs without proper access points, 1News has reported.
Further concerns were raised about the durability of the installations, with some water pipes unlikely to last the required 50-year lifespan. The faulty work also increased the likelihood of sewer blockages.
According to 1News, DeClifford also faced charges for misrepresenting himself as a licensed professional. He used another practitioner’s registration number to sign official documents, without that individual’s knowledge.
He pleaded guilty to eight charges and was sentenced in the Invercargill District Court on March 31. He was not present during the sentencing.
The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board stressed the seriousness of the case, stating, "Restricted plumbing and drainlaying work can only be carried out by licensed or authorised people. These requirements are in place to protect public health and safety," as quoted by 1News.
The board further warned of the dangers associated with unauthorised work, adding, "This outcome reflects the importance of maintaining standards and ensuring only authorised practitioners carry out restricted work," 1News has quoted.