The WaterMark Certification Scheme is a mandatory product certification scheme for specified plumbing and drainage products installed in Australia.
The Scheme is administered by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) and is referenced in the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) within the National Construction Code (NCC).
WaterMark certification verifies that applicable plumbing and drainage products comply with the relevant WaterMark technical specifications, standards, and regulatory requirements prior to installation and supply within Australia.
CMI Certification provides JAS-ANZ accredited WaterMark certification services for products within its accredited scope, supporting manufacturers, suppliers, and certificate holders in meeting mandatory compliance obligations.
WaterMark certification is based on the assessment of product compliance, supported by test reports from NATA- or ILAC-approved laboratories, technical documentation, quality plans, and ongoing surveillance activities, in accordance with the WaterMark Certification Scheme Rules.
While WaterMark is a mandatory scheme, certain product types are excluded. These exclusions are defined by the ABCB and published on the WaterMark website.
P: +61 7 54452199
E: office@cmicert.com.au
WaterMark certification applies to defined plumbing and drainage product categories as set out by the ABCB. Typical product groups include:
Tapware and outlet fittings
(including shower fittings, tap fittings, and outlet assemblies)
Hot water systems and water heaters
Pipes and pipe fittings
Valves and backflow prevention devices
Sanitary plumbing products and waste units
Drainage pipes, fittings, and fixtures
High-hazard and low-hazard plumbing appliances
A complete and authoritative list of products requiring WaterMark certification is maintained by the ABCB and can be accessed here:
👉 Schedule of Products requiring WaterMark certification
WaterMark certification helps ensure that plumbing and drainage products:
Comply with mandatory WaterMark technical specifications and referenced standards
Are suitable for their intended use within plumbing and drainage systems
Are supported by appropriate testing, technical documentation, and ongoing surveillance
Meet regulatory requirements for installation and supply under the Plumbing Code of Australia
CMI Certification provides JAS-ANZ accredited third-party WaterMark certification within its approved scope of accreditation.
Click below to view the list of of WaterMark Standards
–
The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) is responsible for administering national building and plumbing regulatory frameworks referenced in the National Construction Code (NCC).
Official ABCB resources include:
ABCB WaterMark guidance videos:
The Australian Building Codes Board (Australian Building Codes Board) has introduced requirements to reduce lead content in plumbing products used in contact with drinking water, supporting public health outcomes and long-term water quality.
Under NCC 2022, a maximum allowable lead content of 0.25% applies to defined plumbing products intended for use in drinking water applications. These requirements are implemented through the WaterMark Certification Scheme and apply to products manufactured, certified, or supplied for use in Australia within the regulated transition period.
WaterMark certification plays a key role in demonstrating compliance with lead-free requirements by verifying that applicable products:
meet the relevant WaterMark technical specifications for lead content
are supported by appropriate test evidence from approved laboratories
are manufactured under a compliant quality management framework
continue to meet requirements through ongoing surveillance
Manufacturers and suppliers should ensure they understand whether their products fall within the scope of the lead-free requirements and how these changes apply to existing certifications, new applications, and product modifications.
Official guidance on lead-free plumbing products, including FAQs and regulatory clarification, is published by the ABCB and should be referred to when planning certification or transition activities.
👉 Lead-free plumbing products – ABCB guidance
👉 WaterMark Lead-Free FAQ (October 2023)
Manufacturers are encouraged to engage early to understand transition timelines, testing requirements, and impacts on existing certifications.
Already certified and considering a change of certification body?
CMI Certification can assess an eligible transfer to support continuity and minimise duplication.
Documents required: current certification certificate, last audit report, test reports, specifications, markings, user instructions and any other supporting technical documentation.
JAS-ANZ accredited certification body
Trusted, independent certification within accredited scope.
Responsive, customer-focused support
Clear communication and a practical approach to managing transfers.
Efficient transfer and turnaround times
Existing certification evidence is reviewed to avoid unnecessary duplication and delays.
Independent, third-party product certification
Objective assessment based on certification requirements and technical evidence.
Clear and structured certification processes
A straightforward process designed to maintain certification continuity and minimise disruption.
Submission of your current certificate, most recent audit report, test reports, specifications, product markings, user instructions, and other relevant technical documentation.
Review of certification status, audit outcomes, and supporting compliance evidence.
Confirmation of transfer and continuation of certification under the CMI ProdCert Scheme, where eligibility criteria are met.
Submit your enquiry and we’ll confirm eligibility and next steps.
Transfers are subject to accreditation scope, certification status, and technical review.
Product marking plays a vital role in the Product Certification Scheme, ensuring compliance and promoting safety and quality. Marking products with the appropriate certifications and labels helps consumers make informed choices, distinguishing certified products from others in the market. It provides clear evidence that a product has undergone rigorous testing, manufacturing quality controls and meets established standards. Additionally, product marking aids in traceability, allowing authorities to track and identify certified products throughout the supply chain. By adhering to proper marking practices, manufacturers contribute to building trust, protecting consumers, and upholding the integrity of the Product Certification Scheme, ultimately fostering a safer and more reliable marketplace.
The things you need to let CMI Certification know that may or have changed since your product was originally certified are:
This notification should occur prior to the changes being actually implemented so that CMI Certification can discuss and advise the actions/updates that maybe required to be undertaken because of the change.