Why You Should Always Hire a Licensed and Insured Plumber in Texas

A dripping faucet, a clogged drain, a malfunctioning water heater, a mysterious rattle in the pipes – plumbing problems can be stressful and inconvenient.

When these issues arise, choosing the right plumber is crucial. While the temptation to go with the cheapest option might be strong, prioritizing a licensed and insured plumber in the Lone Star State offers significant benefits and protects you from unforeseen problems.

In Texas, plumbers must adhere to specific licensing and insurance requirements. Understanding these regulations allows homeowners and business owners to make informed decisions when selecting a plumbing professional.

What It Means for a Plumber to Be Licensed in Texas

A licensed plumber has undergone a rigorous process to demonstrate their qualifications. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) oversees licensing and requires applicants to:

• Pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of plumbing codes, safety protocols, and installation procedures.
  
  
• Complete a plumbing apprenticeship program or have a minimum of four years of experience under a licensed plumber.
  
  
• Pay applicable fees and submit references.
  
  

“The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) safeguards Texas citizens’ health and safety by guaranteeing clean drinking water, uncontaminated air, and safe medical gases through regulated plumbing systems,” explains TSBPE. “By licensing only competent individuals, the Board ensures safe plumbing practices within the state.”

Licensed plumbers must also complete continuing education courses to stay updated on the latest advancements and code changes within the plumbing industry. Their licenses are subject to renewal every two years.

“Community education is another essential aspect of the Board’s mission. The TSBPE promotes the importance of proper plumbing for health and sanitation, as well as the vital role of licensed plumbing professionals. By informing the public, the Board encourages the use of qualified professionals over potentially harmful unlicensed workers, thereby upholding the Board’s mission,” says TSBPE.

The Different Types of Plumbing Licenses in Texas

TSBPE issues four types of plumbing licenses in Texas:

• Tradesman Plumber-Limited: A tradesman plumber-limited must have 4,000 hours of experience working in the plumbing trade and completed a 24-hour training course. A tradesman plumber-limited may construct, install, repair, service, or renovate plumbing for one and two-family dwellings under the supervision of a responsible master plumber. A tradesman may also directly supervise a plumber’s apprentice on job sites for one and two-family dwellings. If you are a licensed tradesman and want to work on a job that involves a structure other than a one or two-family dwelling, you may do so only under the direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber. Direct supervision means that the journeyman or master is on the job site at all times.
• Journeyman Plumber: A journeyman must have at least 8,000 hours of experience working in the plumbing trade and completed a 48-hour training course. A journeyman plumber may install, change, repair, service, or renovate plumbing under the supervision of a responsible master plumber.  A journeyman may also directly supervise a plumber’s apprentice on all job sites or a tradesman plumber-limited on job sites for structures other than one and two-family dwellings.
• Master Plumber: A journeyman plumber for four years in Texas (or another state) may apply to become a master plumber. A master plumber may install, change, repair, service, or renovate plumbing under the supervision of a responsible master plumber. A master may also directly supervise a plumber’s apprentice on all job sites or a tradesman plumber-limited on job sites for structures other than one and two-family dwellings.
• Plumbing Inspector: Must have completed 500 hours of training and experience in the plumbing industry and currently be licensed as a master plumber, journeyman plumber, professional engineer, or architect. A plumbing inspector may inspect plumbing work performed within the jurisdiction of any political subdivision with which the inspector is affiliated.

The road to a plumbing license starts with an apprenticeship. Those 16 years and older may register to be an apprentice and start counting hours of experience toward tradesman and journeyman licenses.

Other registrations in Texas include drain cleaner-restricted, drain cleaner, and residential utilities installer.

There are also endorsements that plumbers can earn with training including medical gas piping installation, multipurpose residential fire protection sprinkler specialist, and water supply protection specialist.

What It Means for a Plumber to Be Insured in Texas

Insurance carried by professional plumbers protects you financially if something goes wrong during a plumbing service.

Reputable plumbers typically carry two types of insurance:

• General Liability Insurance: This covers property damage and bodily injury that may occur unintentionally during the plumbing work. For example, if a pipe bursts due to accidental damage during repairs, general liability insurance would cover the cost of repairs.
  
  
• Workers' Compensation Insurance: This protects the plumber's employees in case of accidents or injuries sustained while working on your property. It ensures you are not liable for medical bills or lost wages if a plumber gets injured on your job.
  
  

By hiring an insured plumber, you gain peace of mind knowing you're not responsible for these unforeseen circumstances.

Benefits of Hiring a Licensed and Insured Plumber

There are numerous advantages to choosing a licensed and insured plumber:

• Quality Workmanship: Licensed plumbers have the training and experience to handle plumbing issues efficiently and correctly. They understand local codes and use high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting repairs and reducing the risk of future problems.
  
  
• Adherence to Local Codes and Regulations: Plumbing codes exist for a reason: they ensure the safety and functionality of your plumbing system. Licensed plumbers are familiar with these codes and will complete the work according to these regulations. This protects your property value and ensures your plumbing system functions properly.
  
  
• Financial Protection for Homeowners: With a licensed and insured plumber, you’re financially protected in case of accidental damage or faulty workmanship. General liability insurance covers any unintentional property damage caused by the plumber, while their workers' compensation insurance takes care of any employee-related accidents.
  
  
• Recourse in Case of Problems or Disputes: Should any issues arise with the completed work, having a licensed plumber provides avenues for recourse. You can file a complaint with the TSBPE if the work doesn't meet the code or isn't up to standard. Additionally, the plumber’s insurance can help resolve disputes regarding faulty workmanship.
  
  

Consequences of Hiring an Unlicensed or Uninsured Plumber

The risks associated with hiring an unlicensed or uninsured plumber are significant:

• Potential for Subpar Work: Unlicensed individuals may lack the necessary training and experience to perform plumbing tasks effectively. This can lead to shoddy repairs, hidden leaks, and even potential safety hazards.
  
  
• Lack of Accountability: Without a license, there's no regulatory body overseeing the plumber's work. If something goes wrong, you may have difficulty holding them accountable for poor workmanship or faulty repairs.
  
  
• Financial Risks for Homeowners: In the absence of insurance, you become financially responsible for any damage caused by the plumber or their employees. Additionally, if the work is faulty and needs to be redone, you'll have to pay for repairs out of pocket.
  
  
• Difficulty with Permit Approvals and Inspections: Many plumbing jobs require permits and inspections. Unlicensed plumbers cannot legally pull permits, potentially delaying your project and putting you at odds with local authorities.
  
  

How to Verify a Plumber's License and Insurance

Before hiring a plumber, always verify their credentials. Here's how:

• Check with the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners: The TSBPE website allows you to search for licensed plumbers by name or license number. This verifies their current licensing status and any disciplinary actions against them.
  
  
• Request Proof of Insurance: Ask the plumber for a certificate of insurance listing their general liability and workers' compensation coverage. Ensure the coverage limits are sufficient to address potential damage.
  
  
• Do Your Due Diligence: Don't be afraid to ask questions and research the plumber's reputation. Read online reviews, consult with neighbors or friends for recommendations, and compare quotes from several licensed and insured plumbers before making your final decision.
  
  

Plumbing problems can be disruptive, but by prioritizing a licensed and insured plumber, you minimize stress and maximize the chances of a successful repair.

Contact licensed and insured Pilot Plumbing for your professional, commercial, and residential plumbing needs in the North Houston and greater Montgomery County area.