Built on expertise: Meet Dynamic Plumbing Works

Running a successful plumbing business didn’t start with a grand plan or a big team – it started with a trade qualification and the determination to succeed. WiriLink sat down with Cam Lowe, owner of Dynamic Plumbing Works, and talked about how his business has grown, lessons learned and what the future holds.

Dynamic Plumbing Works has a team of around 16 staff and offers a wide range of plumbing, gas fitting and drainage services across Auckland. But the journey began much more simply.

“Once I got qualified, I went out on my own. In 2011, I started Dynamic Plumbing Works with nothing and slowly built it up” says Cam.

Dynamic Plumbing Works has a natural growth model has shaped the business from the start. Apprentices learn the trade, gain experience and eventually become qualified tradespeople, creating a steady pipeline of skilled staff.

“My first employee was one of my groomsmen; and we’ve grown organically with apprentices ever since. Trade companies grow because they get apprentices coming through. You might lose some when they want to start their own business, but that’s part of it. I encourage that – if that’s what motivates them, go do it.”

Dynamic Plumbing Works is a one-stop shop for plumbing, gas and drainage

While many companies specialise in one area, Cam made a point of expanding his own qualifications and the company’s capabilities over time.

“I studied the whole time. The company I apprenticed with didn’t do gas fitting, so I did extra study and got qualified in gas. I also did drainage qualifications too.”

“Now what we pride ourselves on is offering a one-stop shop for gas fitting, drainage services and plumbing services.”

The business also provides services that many people wouldn’t necessarily associate with a plumbing company, including liquid waste removal, grease trap cleaning and central heating installations.

“We’ve got a suction truck, drain unblocking equipment, including drainage cameras. It’s quite attractive to clients when one company can offer all of that without subcontracting it out.”

“For instance, a property manager might have a leaking pipe and a gas water heater issue at the same property. They want someone who can handle everything.”

Lessons learned from running a business

Over the past 15 years, Cam has learned plenty about running a business – often the hard way.

One of the biggest challenges has been understanding the financial side of business operations.

“Cash flow has been a big learning curve; understanding the difference between cash flow and profit and loss and how money flows through the business.”

Like many businesses, the company faced challenges during the COVID period and the economic slowdown that followed.

“When things are good, it’s all good, but when the market gets a little harder you have to manage things tighter.”

Despite the pressures, he says the responsibility of providing jobs for his team keeps him motivated.

“You’re providing people with a livelihood. You’ve just got to keep pushing on and find ways to get through the bad times.”

The importance of creating a positive culture

As the company has grown, creating a positive team culture has become a key focus.

Cam says he has learned that culture is about far more than the occasional social event.

“I used to think culture was just beers and pizza. But it’s a lot more than that. It’s knowing your colleagues have your back and you can trust them.”

Respect across the team is also central to the way the business operates.

“Gone are the days where apprentices get spoken to badly, and although there is obviously a pecking order, everyone is treated equally.”

That approach appears to be working, with some former staff even returning to the company after leaving.

Location, location, location

Dynamic Plumbing Works has been based in Wiri since its early days, a location Cam chose for a practical reason.

“When I moved to Waiuku I couldn’t base the business there when all the staff lived down here. Wiri was a central point. Our mechanic is just down the road, with multiple suppliers within the area too. Everything you need is right here.”

The business first operated from 69 Wiri Station Road, where it spent several years before moving to 2 Kellow Place, where it remained for another few years. They found their next base at 9D Kellow Place; where Wiri continues to be the ideal base for a trade business covering Auckland.

“We have business out west, south and central; you can get anywhere from Wiri. Being so close to the motorway makes a huge difference.”

What the future holds for Dynamic Plumbing Works

After more than a decade in business, Cam says the focus now is on strengthening the team and continuing to grow sustainably.

“The main focus now is just building back up to full capacity with a solid team.”

New services may also be added in the future, but the company’s core goal remains the same: providing reliable, comprehensive plumbing, gasfitting and drainage services to customers across Auckland.

And despite the challenges that come with running a business, Cam still enjoys the journey.

“I don’t wake up thinking about work like it’s a drag. “I actually look forward to going in and seeing the team and getting on with it” concludes Cam.

If you want to know more about the services that Dynamic Plumbing Works provides, call 0800 328 238, email ad***@****co.nz or visit their website https://dynamicplumbing.co.nz/