Is Your Plumber Licensed?

When you hire someone to work on your home, you want to be sure that they’re going to do the job right the first time. One of the best ways to ensure accountability, transparency, and quality is to only work with licensed professionals on residential plumbing in Highland. So is your plumber licensed?

Your local plumber is an excellent example. A licensed plumber may cost slightly more, but their license ensures that they have the education and training to make sure your plumbing meets the standards you expect. Given the costly risks associated with sub-par plumbing work, it makes sense to invest in quality workmanship.

The Process of Becoming a Licensed Plumber

The educational requirements may vary some depending on your state. In California, plumbers are required to attain four years of experience as a journeyman, foreman, or owner-builder before they are even allowed to sit the required examinations.

There are two separate exams required for licensing. These exams are the California Plumbers exam and the Business and Law exam. By taking and passing these exams, plumbers show their expertise in their field as well as their ability to run their business legally.

In addition to passing their exams, a plumbing license in the state of California requires a criminal background check and general liability insurance for all related LLCs.

The Perks of Hiring a Licensed Plumber

While it may surprise you that your plumber goes through so much training, it’s important to remember that it’s actually a highly technical job. The plumbing in your home is complex, and a single error could do thousands of dollars of damage.

By hiring a licensed plumber you will avoid major pitfalls. It is the closest guarantee that your plumber will do the job correctly within the price estimate without any additional concerns for your family. Of course, in order to hire a licensed plumber, you have to know how to identify one.

Finding a Licensed Plumber

If you’re looking for plumbing services in Highland, you will want to know how to find a reliable plumbing master. The easiest way is to look up plumbers near you and have a look at their websites.

Most licensed plumbing services will clearly mark their license number somewhere on their website. However, you can always check directly with the Contractors’ State License Board if you’re unsure if your local plumber is licensed.

Additionally, a licensed plumber will usually have their license printed on their work vehicle or their business card. These are all good signs that your plumber is likely licensed, but you should always check if possible.

Identifying Red Flags

If you are working with a plumber who may or may not be licensed, then you should learn to identify potential red flags. You should avoid working with plumbers who:

Gives an estimate without visiting
Refuses to give an estimate after their initial inspection
Only accept cash payment
Do not offer a comprehensive contract
Cannot show proof of liability insurance
Bringing in multiple workers for a basic job

While these may not always be deal breakers, it is best to proceed with caution if you see any of these red flags. At the very least before you allow someone to work on your plumbing, you should have a legally binding contract with an estimated range of what you can expect to owe.

Taking Care of Your Home

When you hire a plumber, you want to know that they will take care of your home. This is a reasonable expectation. No one is perfect. And mistakes can still occur. But hiring a licensed professional gives you the best bet of a good experience with a plumber. One who wants to make your house whole.