Does a Plumber Need a Contract in Oregon? Here’s What You Must Know

If you’re planning a plumbing repair or renovation in Oregon, you might be wondering: Does a plumber have to have a contract? It’s a smart question—knowing your legal rights can save you from unexpected fees, poor workmanship, or even unlicensed contractors. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, understanding Oregon’s plumbing contract rules helps ensure your project runs smoothly and legally.

When Is a Written Contract Required for Plumbing Work in Oregon?

In Oregon, a written contract is legally required for all home improvement work—including plumbing—that costs $1,000 or more. This rule is enforced under the Oregon Home Improvement Contractor Law (ORS 698A), which aims to protect consumers from fraud, subpar work, and unlicensed operators.

So, if your water heater replacement, sewer line repair, or bathroom remodel exceeds $1,000 in labor and materials, your plumber must provide a written contract before starting work.

💡 Key Takeaway: Even if the job seems small, always ask for a contract. It’s your legal safeguard.

What Must a Plumbing Contract in Oregon Include?

Not all contracts are created equal. Oregon law specifies exactly what must be in a plumbing (or any home improvement) contract to be valid. According to the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB), your contract must contain:

1. Contractor’s CCB license number (e.g., “CCB# 123456”)—this is non-negotiable.
2. Full business name and physical address (not just a PO box).
3. Detailed scope of work, including materials, brands, and installation methods.
4. Total price, broken down into labor and materials if possible.
5. Start and completion dates (or a “reasonable time” clause if exact dates aren’t feasible).
6. Payment schedule—Oregon caps down payments at 33% of the total or $1,000, whichever is less.
7. Cancellation rights: You have 3 business days to cancel the contract after signing (for in-home solicitations).

⚠️ Warning: If any of these elements are missing, the contract may be unenforceable—and you could lose legal protection.

What Happens If a Plumber Works Without a Contract in Oregon?

Working without a required contract isn’t just a paperwork oversight—it’s a violation of Oregon state law. Consequences include:

• Fines up to $5,000 per violation by the CCB.
• Suspension or revocation of the plumber’s license.
• Inability to legally collect payment if a dispute arises (yes, really!). Oregon courts often side with homeowners if no compliant contract exists.

In 2023, the CCB reported over 1,200 complaints against contractors—nearly 30% involved missing or incomplete contracts.

📌 Real Example: A Portland homeowner paid $2,500 upfront to fix a leaky main line. No contract was provided. When work stalled, the CCB ruled the plumber couldn’t sue for balance—and fined them $2,000 for non-compliance.

How to Verify a Plumber’s License and Contract Legitimacy

Before signing anything, always verify the plumber’s CCB license. Here’s how:

1. Go to the Oregon CCB License Lookup Tool.
2. Enter the contractor’s name or license number.
3. Confirm the license is active and in good standing (no suspensions).

Also, check that their contract includes their exact CCB number—not just a business name. Unlicensed plumbers cannot legally perform work over $1,000 in Oregon.

📌 Pro Tip: Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers’ comp coverage—not required by CCB but essential for your protection.

Benefits of a Plumbing Contract (Even for Small Jobs)

Even if your plumbing job is under $1,000, getting a written agreement is strongly recommended. Here’s why:

A simple one-page agreement can prevent 90% of common contractor disputes, according to the Better Business Bureau.

Step-by-Step: How to Request and Review a Plumbing Contract in Oregon

Follow these steps to protect yourself:

1. Get at least 3 written quotes—each should include a draft contract.
2. Check the CCB license number on every quote.
3. Compare scope details: Does “fix leaky faucet” mean just the cartridge or include pipe inspection?
4. Never pay more than $1,000 or 33% upfront—Oregon law caps this.
5. Read the cancellation clause: You should have 3 days to back out if signed at home.
6. Keep a signed copy—both you and the plumber should have one.

✅ Best Practice: Email a PDF copy to yourself and store it with your home records.

Oregon Plumbing Laws vs. Other States: A Quick Comparison

While many states require contracts for large projects, Oregon is stricter than average:

• California: Requires contracts over $500.
• Washington: Requires contracts over $1,000 but allows verbal agreements under certain conditions.
• Oregon: No verbal contracts allowed for jobs ≥$1,000—must be written, signed, and CCB-compliant.

This makes Oregon one of the more consumer-friendly states for home improvement work.

FAQ: Common Questions About Plumbing Contracts in Oregon

Q1: Do I need a contract for a $500 plumbing repair in Oregon?

A: No—Oregon law only requires a written contract for jobs $1,000 or more. However, a simple written agreement is still wise to avoid misunderstandings.

Q2: Can a plumber start work before I sign the contract?

A: No. Oregon law prohibits contractors from beginning work until a compliant contract is signed by both parties.

Q3: What if my plumber refuses to give me a contract?

A: Walk away. Refusal to provide a contract is a red flag—it may indicate they’re unlicensed or trying to avoid accountability. Report them to the CCB if needed.

Q4: Are digital/e-sign contracts valid in Oregon?

A: Yes, as long as they include all required elements and both parties consent. Tools like DocuSign or Adobe Sign are acceptable.

Q5: Does emergency plumbing (e.g., burst pipe) require a contract?

A: If the total cost exceeds $1,000, yes—but timing matters. For true emergencies, contractors can begin work immediately, but must provide a written contract within 24 hours.

Q6: Can I cancel a plumbing contract after signing?

A: If the contract was signed at your home, workplace, or a temporary sales location, you have 3 business days to cancel without penalty under Oregon’s “cooling-off” rule.

Conclusion: Protect Your Home—and Your Wallet—with a Proper Contract

In Oregon, a plumbing contract isn’t just paperwork—it’s your legal shield. Whether you’re replacing a toilet or re-piping your whole house, insisting on a CCB-compliant written contract ensures transparency, accountability, and peace of mind.

Don’t take chances with unlicensed or contract-averse plumbers. Verify, document, and protect yourself every time.

✅ Found this guide helpful? Share it with friends in Oregon who might be planning a plumbing project!

For more on contractor regulations, visit the Oregon Construction Contractors Board or learn about general plumbing standards on Wikipedia’s plumbing page.