Key Takeaways
- Watermark is mandatory for plumbing products in AU/NZ.
- WELS rates water efficiency (0-6 stars) and is required for taps/showers.
- Non-compliance attracts fines up to $1.1M AUD for corporations.
- Certification involves rigorous testing, audits, and surveillance.
What is Watermark Certification?
Watermark certification is a mandatory product certification scheme for plumbing and drainage products sold in Australia and New Zealand. Administered by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB), Watermark ensures that products meet minimum safety, performance, and water efficiency standards before they can be legally sold or installed.
The scheme was established to protect public health and safety by ensuring that plumbing products perform reliably and don't compromise water supply systems. For shower enclosures and related products, Watermark certification verifies compliance with Australian and New Zealand Standards (AS/NZS), including water efficiency requirements under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme.
Market Requirement: It is illegal to supply, install, or sell non-certified plumbing products in Australia and New Zealand. Watermark certification is not optional—it's a legal requirement for market access. Penalties for non-compliance can include fines up to $1.1 million AUD for corporations.
WELS Rating System
The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme is an integral part of Watermark certification for water-using products. WELS rates products on a scale of 0 to 6 stars based on their water efficiency, with more stars indicating better water conservation performance.
Understanding WELS Star Ratings
Showerheads
WELS ratings for showerheads are based on flow rate measured in liters per minute (L/min):
- • 3 stars: ≤9 L/min
- • 4 stars: ≤7.5 L/min
- • 5 stars: ≤6 L/min
- • 6 stars: ≤4.5 L/min
Tapware
Basin taps and mixers are rated based on flow rate at standard pressure:
- • 4 stars: ≤6 L/min
- • 5 stars: ≤4.5 L/min
- • 6 stars: ≤3 L/min
For shower enclosures, while the glass panels themselves don't require WELS ratings, any integrated shower systems, valves, or fixtures must comply with WELS requirements. This ensures that complete shower installations meet water efficiency standards.
Testing and Certification Process
Obtaining Watermark certification requires comprehensive testing by accredited laboratories and ongoing quality assurance. The process ensures products consistently meet Australian and New Zealand standards throughout their production lifecycle.
1. Product Testing
Products must be tested by NATA-accredited laboratories (National Association of Testing Authorities) or equivalent internationally recognized bodies. Testing evaluates performance, durability, safety, and water efficiency according to relevant AS/NZS standards. For shower products, this includes water tightness, structural integrity, and material durability testing.
2. Certification Application
Manufacturers submit test reports and technical documentation to a Watermark Conformity Assessment Body (CAB). The CAB reviews all documentation to verify compliance with applicable standards. This includes detailed product specifications, manufacturing processes, and quality control procedures.
3. Factory Audits
CABs conduct on-site factory audits to verify that manufacturing facilities have appropriate quality management systems. Auditors assess production processes, quality control procedures, and testing capabilities. Factories must demonstrate consistent ability to produce products that meet certified specifications.
4. Product Registration
Once certified, products are registered in the Watermark Product Database, which is publicly accessible. Each product receives a unique Watermark certificate number that must be displayed on product packaging and documentation. This allows installers and regulators to verify product compliance.
5. Ongoing Surveillance
Watermark certification requires ongoing surveillance including periodic factory audits and product testing. CABs conduct unannounced audits and market surveillance testing to ensure continued compliance. Manufacturers must maintain quality systems and promptly report any product changes that might affect certification.
Applicable Standards for Shower Products
Shower enclosures and related products must comply with multiple Australian and New Zealand Standards depending on their components and intended use:
- •AS/NZS 3500: Plumbing and drainage series covering installation requirements, water supply, sanitary plumbing, and stormwater drainage. This is the primary standard governing shower installation.
- •AS/NZS 6400: Water efficient products - Rating and labelling. Defines WELS rating methodology and labelling requirements for water-using products.
- •AS/NZS 2208: Safety glazing materials in buildings. Specifies requirements for tempered glass used in shower enclosures, similar to ANSI Z97.1 in North America.
- •AS 1288: Glass in buildings - Selection and installation. Provides guidance on appropriate glass selection for different applications including wet areas.
Our shower enclosure range is designed to meet these standards, with tempered safety glass complying with AS/NZS 2208 and installation specifications aligned with AS/NZS 3500 requirements.
Compliance for Importers and Manufacturers
Both local manufacturers and importers must ensure Watermark compliance before supplying products to the Australian and New Zealand markets. The responsibilities and processes differ slightly between these groups.
Importer Responsibilities
Importers must verify that products are certified before importation. This includes:
- →Obtaining Watermark certificates from overseas manufacturers
- →Verifying products match certified specifications
- →Maintaining records of certification documentation
- →Ensuring proper Watermark labelling on products and packaging
- →Reporting any product changes to certification bodies
Cost Considerations
Watermark certification costs vary depending on product complexity and testing requirements. Typical costs include:
- • Laboratory testing: $3,000 - $10,000 AUD per product
- • Certification body fees: $1,500 - $5,000 AUD annually
- • Factory audit costs: $2,000 - $5,000 AUD per audit
- • Ongoing surveillance: $1,000 - $3,000 AUD annually
Related Certification Guides
Related Certified Products
Recommended Enclosures
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Watermark certification mandatory for all shower products?
Watermark certification is mandatory for most plumbing and drainage products installed in Australia and New Zealand, including taps, valves, showerheads, and waste fittings. Shower screens themselves generally do not require Watermark, but the associated plumbing fixtures do.
What is the difference between Watermark and WELS?
Watermark certifies product quality, safety, and fitness for purpose. WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) rates water efficiency. Most Watermark-certified products that use water must also be WELS registered.
Can I install non-Watermark products in my home?
No. Licensed plumbers are legally prohibited from installing non-Watermark certified products where certification is required. Doing so can void insurance and attract penalties.
How long is a Watermark license valid for?
A Watermark license is typically valid for 5 years, subject to successful annual surveillance audits and ongoing compliance with relevant standards.
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