Why You Should Choose a Licensed & Insured Plumber

Is it important to choose plumbers with a license, or would an unlicensed “professional” be acceptable for the job? The answer is no, and there are several reasons why. A license assures you that the plumber or plumbing company completely satisfies state requirements for training and professionalism. Unlicensed plumbers are not subject to the same standards, and therefore you have no way of verifying their training or experience. Most licensed plumbers have invested about 3 or four years in formal training. No such assumption can be made for an unlicensed professional. Also, if a plumber is unlicensed, chances are he does not carry insurance coverage. Insurance coverage gives you the peace of mind that they will cover any accidental damage or injuries they may cause.

To apply for a license, you need to have at least 3 years of experience and approximately 6,000 hours of work as apprentice plumber under a master plumber and over and above 300 hours of theory learning. You would also need to clear a plumber’s license exam. In order to pass this three part exam, a score of 70% must be achieved on each section. All of this ensures that the licensed professional you hire has the experience and expertise to do the job. There are different requirements in each state, but knowing that the professional you have hired for your plumbing needs has met these requirements is essential in assuring a job well done.

Journeyman residential specialty plumbers must renew their licenses every other year and are required to have at least 16 hours of continuing education. This must include a minimum of 4 hours related to electrical safety, 8 hours of plumbing code, plus 4 additional hours. So, you know that your plumbing is being handled by someone who is knowledgeable and up to date on the latest safety standards and plumbing codes.

As you can see, choosing licensed plumbers means you are choosing a true professional in the field. You’ll be ensuring safety and quality in workmanship and eliminating the risks involved if you were to choose someone without the qualifications and standards essential to providing you the service you deserve.