Can You Do Plumbing With a General Contractor’s License?

Thinking about tackling a plumbing job but only hold a general contractor’s license? You’re not alone. Many contractors wonder whether their license gives them the legal green light to handle plumbing tasks—especially on residential projects. The short answer? It depends—but usually, no. Understanding the legal and practical boundaries of your license is crucial to avoid fines, project delays, or even license suspension. Let’s break down exactly what you can and can’t do, state by state, and what steps to take if you want to expand your services legally.

What Does a General Contractor’s License Allow?

A general contractor (GC) license authorizes you to manage and oversee construction projects. Depending on your state, this may include coordinating subcontractors, pulling permits, and performing basic construction work like framing, drywall, or roofing—but not specialized trades like electrical, HVAC, or plumbing unless explicitly permitted.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 80% of states require separate licensing for plumbing work due to public health and safety concerns. Plumbing involves pressurized water systems, gas lines, and wastewater handling—mistakes can lead to mold, contamination, or even explosions.

“A general contractor’s role is coordination, not substitution,” says Mark Delgado, a veteran contractor and licensing consultant in California. “Doing unlicensed plumbing isn’t just risky—it’s often illegal.”

For more on licensing categories, see the Wikipedia page on construction trades licensing in the U.S. .

State-by-State Breakdown: Where Can GCs Do Plumbing?

Licensing rules vary widely across the U.S. Here’s a quick-reference table for key states:

Always verify with your state’s licensing board—rules change frequently.

Risks of Doing Plumbing Without Proper Licensing

Even if your state seems lenient, unlicensed plumbing carries serious risks:

• Legal Penalties: Fines up to $5,000 per violation (e.g., in California).
• Insurance Voidance: Most liability policies exclude unlicensed work.
• Permit Rejection: Building inspectors can halt your project if plumbing isn’t done by a licensed pro.
• Client Lawsuits: If a pipe bursts due to faulty installation, you could face personal liability.

A 2023 study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that 62% of contractor lawsuits involved scope-of-license violations—plumbing ranked #2 after electrical work.

How to Legally Add Plumbing to Your Services

If you’re serious about offering plumbing, here’s a step-by-step path:

1. Check Your State Requirements
   Visit your state’s contractor licensing board website (e.g., CSLB for California, TDLR for Texas).
2. Complete Required Training
   Most states require 2–5 years of apprenticeship under a licensed plumber.
3. Pass the Plumbing Exam
   Exams cover codes (IPC or UPC), pipe sizing, venting, and local regulations. Study materials are often available through NICET or PSI.
4. Apply for a Plumbing Classification
   In some states (like Arizona or Nevada), you can add a plumbing “classification” to your existing GC license.
5. Maintain Continuing Education
   Many states require 4–8 hours of plumbing code updates annually.

Pro Tip: Consider hiring a licensed plumber as a subcontractor—it’s often faster, cheaper, and safer than getting licensed yourself.

General Contractor vs. Licensed Plumber: Key Differences

Bottom line: Complementary roles—not interchangeable ones.

When Is “Minor Plumbing” Allowed for GCs?

Some states allow GCs to handle “minor” plumbing, such as:

• Installing faucets or fixtures
• Replacing a toilet (without altering waste lines)
• Connecting a dishwasher or garbage disposal

However, any work involving altering pipes, installing water heaters, or working on gas lines almost always requires a plumbing license—even if it’s just “hooking up” existing lines.

Example: In Texas, a GC replaced a water heater without a plumbing endorsement. The job passed inspection initially—but when the homeowner filed an insurance claim after a leak, the insurer denied coverage. The GC was sued for $28,000 in damages.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can a general contractor pull a plumbing permit?

A: Generally, no. Most jurisdictions require the permit applicant to hold the corresponding trade license. Some states allow GCs to pull plumbing permits only if they employ or subcontract a licensed plumber who signs off on the plans.

Q2: What if I’ve been doing plumbing for years without a license?

A: Past experience doesn’t override current law. Many states offer “grandfathering” or experience-based licensing paths—but you must still apply formally. Operating without a license exposes you to legal and financial risk, even if your work is flawless.

Q3: Do I need a plumbing license for DIY work on my own home?

A: Often, no—homeowners can usually do their own plumbing. But if you’re a licensed GC working on your own property as a business, some states (like Florida) still require trade licensing.

Q4: Can I subcontract plumbing and still manage the job?

A: Absolutely—and it’s the smartest approach. Hire a licensed plumber, include them in your project bid, and oversee their work like any other trade. This keeps you compliant and expands your service offerings safely.

Q5: Does a handyman license allow plumbing?

A: Typically not. Handyman licenses (where they exist) cover minor repairs only—usually under $500–$1,000 in value. Plumbing beyond faucet replacement usually exceeds that scope.

Q6: How much does a plumbing license cost?

A: Costs vary:

• Application: $100–$300
• Exam fee: $50–$150
• Bond/insurance: $500–$2,000 annually
• Training courses: $300–$1,500 (optional but recommended)

Conclusion

So, can you do plumbing with a general contractor’s license? In most cases, the answer is no—not legally or safely. While minor fixture work might fly under the radar in some states, anything involving pipes, drains, or gas requires proper licensing. Protect your business, your clients, and your reputation by either partnering with a licensed plumber or pursuing your own plumbing credentials.

If this guide helped clarify your next steps, share it with fellow contractors on LinkedIn or Facebook—many are navigating the same gray areas! And always check with your local licensing authority before turning that wrench.

Stay compliant. Build smart. Grow responsibly. 💧🔧