Why Do Plumbers Need a License in Most States?

Plumbing is an essential part of your daily life. When you trust a plumber to clean your drains, repair your water heater or install a water softener, you’d expect the assurance of getting the job done right. While reading reviews and considering the company’s years of experience can help, the main thing to look for is a plumbing license. 

Only six states — Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Pennsylvania and Wyoming — don’t require plumbing licenses at the state level. Actually, they count on city and county governments to provide oversight and licensing. While the exact requirements to earn a plumbing license vary by region, you can be certain that hiring a licensed Expert is the ideal way to decrease the risk of poor workmanship, fraud and health problems. 

Educational Criteria for Plumbers 

This is what it takes to get a plumber’s license: 

  • Education: Numerous vocational schools and community colleges offer plumbing certificates or degrees. This classroom training covers all the vital skills plumbers use on a daily basis. 
  • Apprenticeship: Both union and non-union organizations have apprenticeship courses that blend classroom learning with practical experience. These programs typically last four to five years, and apprentices earn wages during their training. 
  • Licensing exam: Each state offers its own plumbing test, which candidates must pass to earn a license. The subject areas covered consist of plumbing fixtures, drainage systems, vents and venting, fabrication, pipe maintenance, administrative procedures and more. Qualifications to take the exam vary based on where you are and licensing level. 

Types of Plumbing Licenses and Certifications 

Plumbers can attain various licenses and certifications based on their education and experience. These vary by location, and not all are offered in every state, but the most common plumbing licenses and certifications include: 

  • Plumbing certificate: Many states only require plumbers to have a certificate to complete residential jobs with a minimal scope of work. This is effectively an apprentice-level plumber working with a certified supervisor. 
  • Journeyman plumber: In many states, plumbers will take the journeyman’s licensing exam after completing an apprenticeship and having four years of practical experience. 
  • Master plumber: The prerequisites to take the master plumber’s licensing exam vary significantly by location. Some places only expect 1 – 2 years working as a journeyman plumber, but others insist on four or five years of journeyman experience. 
  • ACE certification: Training to be an Advanced Certified Expert demonstrates the top level of professionalism and experience. Attaining ACE certification is more stringent than typical plumber licensing and usually requires annual recertification to keep technicians up-to-date with the most current industry standards. 

Rewards of Hiring a Licensed Plumber 

Using an unlicensed plumber for the job may be cheaper initially, but that’s where the benefits end. Don’t gamble on your plumbing — only choose a licensed pro, no matter how simple or complex the job is, to ensure all the perks of professional experience: 

  • Outstanding craftsmanship: Plumbing is not an easy field. Completing even the most basic jobs, like snaking a drain, requires specialized equipment and years of expertise. Because of the need to complete classroom education and hands-on training, you can rest assured that a licensed plumber will solve the problem. 
  • Liability insurance: Nearly all states require plumbers to show proof of liability insurance as a condition of the licensing process. This prevents you, the homeowner, from liability for property damage or an injury on-site if a plumber has an accident while performing services in your home. 
  • Authorized and code-compliant: Major plumbing jobs often need to have permits to ensure safety and legality. Unlicensed plumbers are routinely turned down the required permits. If they move ahead with the job, you could receive code violations and accompanying fees later on. Furthermore, you could face legal consequences if an unlicensed plumber impairs the local waterways. Eliminate these risks by only contracting a licensed professional. 
  • Preserved health and safety: A qualified plumber knows the proper strategies for working on water supply lines, sewer pipes and gas lines. Years of hands-on experience are essential to reduce the risk of water pollution, sewer backups and gas leaks. 
  • Legitimate services: Not all plumbers have your best interest at heart. However, a fully licensed team is much less likely to try to mislead you than an unlicensed company. Besides, homeowners can make an official complaint with the state licensing board if they suspect deception, resulting in a hefty fine or even causing them to lose their license. Knowing this provides extra peace of mind when hiring a plumber for the first time. 

Arrange Plumbing Services with a Licensed Professional 

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we go above and beyond to deliver the best plumbing services to our clients in North America. First, we are licensed, insured and ACE-certified. What’s more, everything we do is backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. To request an appointment for reliable plumbing services in your area, please contact a Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office near you today! 

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