How Much Does Reticulation Cost?

Having serviced and installed reticulation systems across Perth for nearly two decades, we’ve seen everything from highly efficient, well-designed systems to substandard setups that cause more problems than they solve.

This is a question we often hear: How much does reticulation cost? The truth is, it varies—much like asking, ‘How long is a piece of string?’. Many factors influence the cost, and not all reticulation systems are created equal.

In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of what you can expect to pay for a quality reticulation system. However, we strongly encourage you to read through the entire post before jumping to the numbers, as understanding what goes into a premium system is crucial when comparing prices.

Read on to learn more.

The Key Factors That Influence The Cost of Your Reticulation

There are many variables when it comes to reticulation systems. For example, how many zones are needed? This depends on the number of sections that require reticulation —whether it’s veggie patches, fruit trees, lawns, gardens, or native plants. Each type will likely need its zone for optimal watering. Then, you have to consider factors like water pressure, access to the property, soil type (whether the garden is established or not), the size of the yard, and the number of plants in each section.

On top of that, there are different materials to choose from, and every homeowner has their own preferences. Some people, for instance, don’t want any visible risers in their system.

But the real question to ask isn’t just ‘How much does reticulation cost’, but ‘How do I guarantee a quality installation?’ Much like comparing a $10 computer from a scrapyard to a $5,000 Apple computer, it’s hard to know what you’re getting with reticulation unless you pay attention to the details. Below are some key things we recommend getting in writing when obtaining quotes:

How Many Zones/Stations

Always ask how many zones or stations will be installed. The difference between 2 solenoids and 25 solenoids is substantial.

Reticulation Wiring in Conduit

Make sure the reticulation wiring is run through conduit, with waterproof gel connectors, to prevent breakages down the line. 

No Wiring Joins

Ensure the company guarantees no wiring joins, as joins can cause future issues and expensive repairs.

Quality Brands and Materials

Insist on using reputable brands and materials that comply with Australian standards.

Head-to-Head Coverage

Ensure one sprinkler head will throw water to the next head, even in garden beds.

Full Pressure Guarantee

Make sure the system is designed for full water pressure. If the pressure and flow are low, more stations will be required to maintain adequate coverage.

Planning for the Future

Check that enough solenoid wires are installed for future expansions and that the controller can handle additional needs as they arise. 

Tall Pop-Ups for Lawns

Use tall pop-up sprinklers that are sunk slightly below ground to avoid being damaged by lawn mowers but still provide enough clearance. 

Pop-Ups Off Hard Surfaces

Ensure pop-up sprinklers are placed at least an inch away from hard surfaces, so an edger can access behind them without causing damage.

Articulated Risers Stop Sprinklers Breaking

Articulated risers are essential for protecting sprinklers from breakage. These risers work by reducing strain on the pipe and pop-up sprinkler. Made up of three elbows and a riser, they allow the sprinkler to flex if something heavy drives over it. This setup helps absorb the impact, letting the sprinkler move slightly to relieve stress on both the pipe and the sprinkler head. By allowing this flexibility, articulated risers significantly reduce the risk of damage, keeping your system in good shape even in high-traffic areas.

Grouped Solenoids

Group valves together in a strong manifold box to keep them serviceable and prevent them from being scattered under trees or throughout the yard.

Waterproof Gel Connectors

Use waterproof gel connectors for solenoids, as they are more durable and reliable than traditional tape methods.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can better ensure that you’re getting a high-quality, long-lasting reticulation system that’s worth your investment.

The Importance of Quality Installation

The goal of installing a reticulation system is to create and maintain healthy lawns and gardens—not simply to get the cheapest system available. A healthy lawn and garden are important for many reasons, from enhancing your mental health to making your home more enjoyable. After all, what’s the point of investing in an irrigation system if your garden isn’t thriving?

In Perth’s extremely hot and dry climate, efficient reticulation is critical. 2024’s summer was very hot and dry, and installing a system that wastes water or fails to reach the right areas is a waste of resources. Achieving even water coverage is key to ensuring that your lawn and garden can thrive. The first step is finding a contractor who is truly passionate about making your outdoor space green and healthy.

Treat It Like a Project 

Too often, reticulation is not treated with the respect it deserves, and this is because there are so many poor-quality installations out there. Many companies do things on the cheap, and there are many cowboys. The reticulation industry in Western Australia is also largely unregulated, unlike other trades that require apprenticeships, licences, and continuous training. In reality, anyone can claim to be a reticulation specialist—at least on paper.

This lack of regulation leads to a wide range of quality across installations, with some systems being substandard and undervaluing the importance of proper irrigation. There are countless products, methods, and installers available, which results in a significant variance in both quality and pricing. So, how do you know what you’re getting?

When you buy a brand-new car, it’s the same model no matter which dealership you visit. But with reticulation, the systems and services can vary dramatically between companies. A company like ours might install 10 valves where another might install only six, or use 40 sprinklers where someone else might only install 20. We take extra care by running all wiring through the conduit, using waterproof gel connectors, articulated flexible risers, and professional solenoid manifolds.

If our price comes in higher—perhaps double or more compared to others—you might ask, why? In the words of a wise man, “Price is what you pay; value is what you get”. Reticulation should be treated like any other significant home project. If you were getting a new bathroom installed, you might expect to pay around $25,000. Similarly, installing a high-quality automated reticulation system on an existing medium to large block in Perth is a complex and demanding job.

The Long-Term Value of Quality Reticulation

Are you looking for a reticulation system that will last for decades and perform its job properly? What’s the real cost of installing a poor-quality system? Most of the systems we install are re-dos—correcting the mistakes of previous installations.

A poorly installed system doesn’t just cost you upfront; it can also lead to ongoing maintenance issues and higher costs down the road. By investing in a quality system from the start, you’ll avoid constant problems and enjoy a lush, green landscape for years to come.

Our Reticulation Pricing

At Retic Renovation, we provide a full range of services including reticulation servicing, repairs, system upgrades, and new system installations. Below is a breakdown of our pricing structure and what you can expect during the process.

Pricing and Time Frame

• Two-Hour Minimum: We require a minimum of two hours for all job bookings, starting from as little as two hours and extending upwards depending on the scope of work.

• Initial Consultation:
  • Purpose: The initial consultation is designed to assess the job and provide an on-site solution.
  • Call-Out Fee: $100
  • First Hour: $200 + GST
  • Initial Consultation Cost: $300 + GST
  • On-Site Service: During this consultation, we’ll often provide a written estimate of the required work. If the issue is minor, it may even be fixed within this initial hour, eliminating the need for further appointments.
• Post-Consultation Work: After receiving the written estimate, you can book us to carry out the necessary repairs, servicing, or installations.
  • Rate: $200 per hour + GST for all services, including servicing, upgrades, and installations, plus materials too!

Extended Jobs

For full installations or more complex jobs that require additional time, there may be an extra charge. If we spend the first hour talking or assessing, we typically require an additional hour or more off-site for further estimation, which incurs an additional $220 per hour on top of the original $330 consultation fee. Sometimes, more time is needed depending on the complexity of the job.

Problem Solving & Investigations

For jobs requiring problem-solving—such as locating solenoids, inspecting wiring, or identifying multiple issues—additional hourly charges may apply. This work is necessary to provide a general estimate.

Cost Factors

Every reticulation job is unique, and the cost depends on several factors, including:

• Size of the yard
• Scope of the work
• Amount of reticulation required
• Specific problems
• Client preferences

Example Scenarios

1. Changing Sprinkler Heads Only:

1. • Scenario: Original pop ups to be kept, only changing 10 sprinkler heads on a front lawn
   • Time:  Typically completed within the initial one-hour consultation and is the cost-effective option (note not every job is suitable for this )
2. Upgrading Sprinklers (Renovating Sprinklers):

• • Components: We use high-quality parts like Rainbird and Hunter pop-ups with sprinkler heads, articulated risers, and durable fittings.
  • Process: This includes installing taller pop-ups to avoid damage from lawnmowers and adding articulated risers to prevent breakages. The installation involves digging, levelling, and compacting the soil. This option keeps the pipe work and solenoids, but is a major upgrade of the sprinklers. 
  • Parts Cost: Around $70 per sprinkler
  • Labour Cost: Around $150 per sprinkler
  • Example: Upgrading 5 sprinklers
  • Total Cost: 5 x $225 (parts + labour) = $1,125

Reticulation Installations: How much does a reticulation system cost?

• Cost for Established Blocks: On an established block in Perth, the average cost for a new reticulation installation can be around $25,000.
• Installation Range: Our average reticulation installation prices range from  $5,000 to $60,000.
• Comparison: Servicing and upgrading a reticulation system is generally a more affordable, and cheaper, option than installing a new system. 

Additional Services

• Retic Renovation or Overhaul: Quick jobs, like changing heads, can be done swiftly. More extensive work, like adding sprinklers or digging, requires more time.
• Custom Pricing: We don’t have a one-size-fits-all price for servicing. Each job is assessed individually based on its complexity and requirements. 

Typical Costs

• Retic System Overhaul: Typically starts from several thousand dollars 
• Hourly Rate: $200 an hour plus parts and GST

Understand Your Reticulation Cost with Case Studies

Would you like a clearer idea of what your reticulation project may cost? We’ve created an exclusive case studies page that features before-and-after photos, an itemised list of parts, and the total hours for each project, giving you a transparent view of what to expect from us.

Choosing between quotes can be challenging. Unlike purchasing a car—where you can get the same model from any dealer—reticulation often comes with varied quotes and system types. While these may look similar on paper, the final result can vary greatly.

We’re committed to thorough, high-quality work, and our case studies page is designed to help you make an informed decision. Reviewing our case studies will equip you to make the best choice for your reticulation needs.

See Case Studies here 

Our Commitment to Quality

At Retic Renovation, our philosophy is simple: do the job right the first time. As the saying goes, ‘Price is what you pay, but value is what you get”. When it comes to reticulation systems, we focus on delivering long-lasting value by ensuring your lawn and garden receive the best possible care.

Have Your Reticulation Done Right with Retic Renovation

The question we often hear is, how much does reticulation cost, but the real question should be, ‘How do I ensure I’m getting the best value for my investment?’.

If you value quality and are ready to upgrade or install a new system, we’d love to help. For those who are considering a DIY approach, we’ve created a step-by-step video course that condenses our 20 years of experience into an easy-to-follow, two-hour guide. The course includes an itemised parts list, a detailed plan, and a comprehensive tool guide, allowing you to install your reticulation system with confidence.

Feel free to reach out to us for professional installation, or explore our DIY course to get started on your own project.

Do you need help with your reticulation? Enquire now!