Plumbing Credentials

In order to operate a plumbing business in most states, individuals are required to have a plumber’s license or some other form of certification.  This is to assure the consumer of a certain level of competence.  You can also look to see if a plumber belongs to a trade organization on a voluntary basis.  The Better Business Bureau is another great tool to evaluate potential plumbers.  A plumber should provide customer references if you ask for them.

Master Plumber Credentials

If your plumber is a master plumber that means he or she spent a great deal of time in on the job experience and classroom time.  The qualifications for master plumber vary from state to state, but in general the plumber must have two to five years job experience and hold a Journeymen certification to earn a master plumber certification.  They must also complete a certain number of hours in continuing education classes each year to retain the certification.

Plumbing Permits

If you hire a licensed plumber to perform work, he or she must secure a permit in almost every case to work on any sewer, drain or water lines that connect to the municipal system.  The work must be done by a Master Plumber, Journeymen Plumber or a registered Apprentice Plumber.  If you choose to do the work you can file an affidavit and obtain a permit from the Department of Buildings and Inspections.  Of course, you must comply with your building and state plumbing code.