How to Determine if Your Plumber is Qualified

When it comes to hiring a plumber, it’s essential to ensure that the person or company you choose is qualified to handle the job. Plumbing issues, whether big or small, can have significant consequences if not properly addressed.

From minor leaks to whole-house repiping, having a licensed and experienced plumber on hand can save you from costly mistakes, water damage or safety hazards.

Why Licensing Matters

The first step in determining if a plumber is qualified is ensuring they hold a valid plumbing license from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Licensing ensures that a plumber has undergone the proper training and passed exams to prove their competency in the field.

Hiring a licensed plumber gives you confidence that the professional is knowledgeable about building codes, safety standards and the technical aspects of plumbing systems. It also offers legal protection since licensed plumbers must adhere to regulations and may be held accountable if the work does not meet the required standards.

Verifying Your Plumber’s Credentials

●      Check for Licensing and Certifications: Ask your plumber for their license number. If you aren’t sure they are trustworthy you can look them up by name or license number on Texas’ licensing website. Some plumbers may also have additional certifications, like gasfitting or backflow prevention, which may be required for specialized jobs. These certifications are proof that the plumber has gone through the necessary training in specific areas of plumbing.

●      Ask About Insurance: A qualified plumber should also carry liability insurance and workers' compensation. Business liability and workers’ comp insurance protects you from being held liable for any damages or injuries that occur on your property while the plumber is working. Plumbers hired through well established and reputable companies like Tom’s Mechanical will typically have the necessary insurance and bonding.

●      Request References and Reviews: One of the best ways to determine a plumber’s qualifications is by hearing from their past clients. Ask the plumber for references or read online reviews to gauge their reputation. A qualified plumber should have a track record of satisfied customers and be able to provide references from previous jobs similar to yours.

●      Experience Matters: In addition to licensing, it’s essential to consider how much experience the plumber has in the field. While a newly licensed plumber can still be qualified, plumbers with several years of experience are more likely to have encountered a wider range of plumbing issues. TSBPE’s licensing categories makes it easier for homeowners to ascertain their plumber’s level of work experience. To sit for the journeyman plumber exam, plumbers must have at least four years of experience and have successfully completed their apprentice and tradesman exams. Only plumbers who have been a journeyman for at least a year can sit for the master plumber exam. 

Signs of a Qualified Plumber

Now that you know how to verify a plumber’s credentials, what are some other signs that indicate you’re working with a professional and qualified plumber?

●      Punctuality and Professionalism: A qualified plumber will respect your time by arriving promptly for appointments and communicating any delays in advance. They should also be dressed appropriately and behave professionally while on the job. These qualities indicate that the plumber takes their work seriously and values customer service.

●      Detailed Estimates: A qualified plumber will provide you with a detailed estimate before starting any work. The estimate should include a breakdown of labor, materials and any additional costs that may arise. If a plumber is vague about costs or reluctant to provide an estimate, it could be a red flag.

●      Use of High-Quality Materials: An experienced plumber will know which materials are the best for each job and should be using high-quality, durable materials that meet industry standards. If a plumber is cutting corners or using cheap materials, it may lead to problems down the line.

●      Proper Equipment and Tools: A qualified plumber will come prepared with the necessary tools and equipment to handle the job effectively. If a plumber doesn’t seem to have the right tools or needs to leave frequently to gather supplies, it may be a sign of inexperience or lack of preparation.

●      Knowledge of Local Codes: Plumbing work must meet specific building codes to ensure safety and efficiency. A licensed plumber will be familiar with the local codes in your area and make sure that any work they perform complies with these regulations. If a plumber seems unfamiliar with the building codes, it’s best to look elsewhere.

Why Choosing a Licensed Plumber Protects You

Hiring a licensed plumber isn’t just about finding someone who will do the job right—it’s also about protecting yourself as a homeowner. Licensed plumbers are required to adhere to professional quality standards and safety regulations, which reduces the risk of future issues. For example, if an unlicensed plumber installs pipes incorrectly, it could lead to leaks, water damage or even serious safety hazards like gas leaks.

Hiring a licensed plumber also gives you recourse if something goes wrong. If the plumber fails to complete the job properly or causes damage, you have legal and insurance protections and can file complaints with the TSBPE. On the other hand, if you hire an unlicensed plumber, you may have no recourse if something goes wrong.

Choose Your Arlington Plumber Wisely

At Tom’s Mechanical, we take pride in providing licensed, professional plumbing services in Arlington, TX.

If you're looking for a qualified plumber to handle your plumbing needs, contact us today or give us a call at (817) 277-4493.