We’ve all seen inquiries online, someone looking for a person that can do some plumbing repair around the house. “Does anyone know of someone that doesn’t charge an arm and a leg to come out?”
And someone always answers, “oh yes, I know a local handyman that can come over and take care of that for you. Just call ‘so and so,’ and mention I referred you.”
Before you make that call, consider the difference between a licensed, insured plumber, and a handyman.
For Your Protection
In many ways, the plumber protects the health of the nation. A plumber is educated, works as an apprentice for five years, and goes on to become a journeyman after passing a state-mandated test. Eventually he can become a Master Plumber after more time, study and testing.
After a plumber is licensed he needs to get insurance coverage in order to keep his license. He will need to place his plumbing license numbers permanently on his vehicle for all to see. He will go to continuing education classes every year to keep up on the latest issues and updates in the plumbing industry.
Plumbing Repair Services near Plano, TX Require a Licensed Plumber
A plumbing license is required for anyone offering plumbing services in the State of Texas. Yet, many times plumbing work is performed illegally by a handyman working from an unmarked vehicle – to avoid being noticed by the building inspector who may be coming down the street.
What’s the Big Deal?
So, you may ask: “What’s the big deal? Why do I need a licensed, insured plumber, anyway? And why do I need to get a permit? I really don’t want to have the inspector showing up at my door!”
Often we are required to obtain a permit to perform the work you need, and the plumbing repair work will need to be inspected. The required inspection by the building inspector is an added protection for you – the customer, and for the plumber. And guess what? If the licensed, insured plumber does not take out the permit and schedule the inspection he is liable for a huge fine. A handyman can just walk away. If you have a problem, maybe a leak that causes further damage – what are you going to do?
There is a place for a handyman. And everyone should be allowed to work. But if they want to do work that has legal requirements, they should have to do the whole process that is required to be licensed. I believe the laws should be followed for the health and welfare of everyone. When you choose someone to perform plumbing work, you’re allowing to access to your water supply – as well as to your neighbors’ water supply down the street – and that person you’ve allowed access may be operating illegally. Without a license, without insurance – and very possibly without the knowledge needed to protect your safety and the safety of your neighbors.
Is Your Plumber Legit?
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners website has a tab you can click on to check on the license and insurance of any plumber that is legit. It’s easy. Look him up before placing the call.
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