Why Do Plumbers Need a License in Most States?

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

Only a few states — Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Pennsylvania and Wyoming — don’t require plumbing licenses at the state level. Instead, they expect city and county agencies to offer oversight and licensing. While the actual requirements to get a plumbing license vary by city, you can rest assured that hiring a licensed specialist is the top way to reduce the possibility of poor workmanship, scams and health issues. 

Educational Requirements for Plumbers 

Here’s a summary of what it takes to become a licensed plumber: 

  • Education: Lots of vocational schools and community colleges provide plumbing certificates or degrees. Usually this training covers all the necessary skills plumbers use on a daily basis. 
  • Apprenticeship: Both union and non-union organizations provide apprenticeship programs that integrate classroom learning with practical experience. These programs normally last four to five years, and apprentices receive wages during their training. 
  • Licensing exam: Each state offers its own plumbing exam, which candidates must pass to receive a license. The topics covered include things like plumbing fixtures, drainage systems, vents and venting, fabrication, pipe maintenance, administrative procedures and more. Qualifications to take the exam vary state-to-state and licensing level. 

Types of Plumbing Licenses and Certifications 

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

  • Plumbing certificate: Certain states only require plumbers to have a certificate to complete residential jobs with a moderate scope of work. This is generally an apprentice-level plumber working with a certified supervisor. 
  • Journeyman plumber: In many states, plumbers will take the journeyman’s licensing exam after finishing an apprenticeship and having the required years of practical experience. 
  • Master plumber: The criteria to qualify for the master plumber’s licensing exam vary greatly by location. Some assessments only require 12 to 24 months working as a journeyman plumber, whereas others call for four or five years of journeyman experience. 
  • ACE certification: Progressing to an Advanced Certified Expert demonstrates the maximum level of professionalism and working experience. Receiving ACE certification is more exhaustive than most plumber licensing and demands yearly recertification to guarantee that techs are up-to-date with the latest industry standards. 

Advantages of Hiring a Licensed Plumber 

Using an unlicensed plumber for the job may be cheaper initially, but that’s where the benefits stop. Why chance it? — only hire a licensed pro, no matter how simple or complex the job is, to ensure all the perks of professional experience: 

  • Excellent workmanship: Plumbing is not as simple as it may seem. Conducting even the most clear-cut jobs, like snaking a drain, involves specialized equipment and years of expertise. Because of the need to complete classroom education and hands-on training, you can be assured knowing that a licensed plumber has what it takes for a job well done. 
  • Liability insurance: A large number of states require plumbers to display proof of liability insurance as one component of the licensing process. This prevents you, the homeowner, from being left responsible for property damage or an injury on-site if a plumber has an accident while working in your home. 
  • Authorized and code-compliant: Major plumbing jobs often need to have permits to ensure safety and legality. Unlicensed plumbers are regularly denied the needed permits. If they go ahead with the job, you could receive code violations and accompanying fees later on. Similarly, you might face legal repercussions if an unlicensed plumber impairs the local waterways. Prevent these risks by only hiring a licensed professional. 
  • Preserved health and safety: A certified plumber adheres to the proper strategies for working on water supply lines, sewer pipes and fuel lines. Years of hands-on experience are essential to reduce the risk of water pollution, sewer backups and gas leaks. 
  • Trustworthy services: Unfortunately, there are plumbers out there that don’t have your best interest at heart. A fully licensed team is far less likely to try to mislead you than an unlicensed company. After all, homeowners can lodge a 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. 

Set up Any 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 customers 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 receive reliable plumbing services in your area, please contact a Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office near you today! 

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