Hiring a plumber for a leaky faucet or a burst pipe is stressful enough—you don’t need the added risk of hiring someone unqualified. If you’ve ever asked, “How can I find out if a plumber is licensed?”, you’re not alone. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 homeowners have unknowingly hired unlicensed contractors, according to a 2023 HomeAdvisor survey. The good news? Verifying a plumber’s license is easier than you think—and it could save you thousands in repairs, fines, or even safety hazards. Let’s walk through exactly how to do it right.
Why Does a Plumbing License Matter?
Before diving into how to check a license, it’s important to understand why it matters. A plumbing license isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s proof that the plumber:
Has passed rigorous exams on local codes and safety standards
Carries required insurance (protecting you from liability)
Meets ongoing education requirements in many states
Unlicensed plumbers may cut corners, use subpar materials, or perform work that fails inspection—leaving you on the hook for rework or even legal trouble. In some states like California or New York, hiring an unlicensed contractor can void your homeowner’s insurance.
How Can I Find Out If a Plumber Is Licensed? (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Ask for Their License Number Upfront
The simplest first step? Just ask. A legitimate, licensed plumber will readily provide their license number—often printed on their business card, truck, or invoice. Don’t be shy: this is standard practice.
💡 Pro Tip: Write down the full name of the business and the individual plumber. Some companies operate under a master license, but the technician on-site may not be individually certified.
2. Check Your State’s Contractor Licensing Board Website
Every U.S. state (except Kansas, Missouri, and Wyoming) requires plumbers to be licensed at the state or local level. Most states offer free, public online license verification tools.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid third-party sites that charge fees or ask for personal info—only use official government portals.
3. Call Your Local Building or Permitting Office
If online tools are confusing or outdated, call your city or county building department. They issue plumbing permits and often maintain records of licensed tradespeople working in your area.
Say:
“Hi, I’m hiring a plumber for a bathroom remodel. Can you confirm if [Plumber’s Name] is licensed to pull permits here?”
This also reveals whether the plumber follows local code requirements—a huge red flag if they refuse to pull permits.
4. Check for Insurance & Bonding (Often Linked to Licensing)
A license doesn’t always guarantee insurance, but most states require both. Ask for:
General liability insurance (covers property damage)
Workers’ compensation (covers injuries on your property)
Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the insurer to verify it’s current. If they hesitate or say “We don’t carry insurance,” walk away.
5. Look for Professional Affiliations & Reviews
While not a substitute for a license, membership in groups like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) or Better Business Bureau (BBB) adds credibility. Also:
Read Google Reviews (look for mentions of “licensed” or “professional”)
Check BBB complaints—especially unresolved ones about licensing
📊 Stat Insight: A 2024 Angi report found that 87% of highly rated plumbers displayed their license number prominently in online profiles.
Common Red Flags of an Unlicensed Plumber
Watch out for these warning signs:
Cash-only payments
Avoids paper trail; may be evading taxes or licensing
No physical address
Operates from a van or P.O. box—hard to hold accountable
Pressure to skip permits
“We’ll save you money”—but illegal work can cost you later
Vague answers about licensing
“I’ve been doing this 20 years” ≠ licensed
If you spot these, stop and verify before work begins.
Q: Can a plumber work without a license in my state?
A: It depends. In states like Missouri or Wyoming, there’s no statewide plumbing license—but many cities still require local permits and certifications. Always check with your local building department. Even in unregulated states, unlicensed work may not pass inspection or be covered by insurance.
Q: What if the plumber is licensed in another state?
A: Licenses don’t transfer automatically. A plumber licensed in Arizona can’t legally work in Georgia without meeting Georgia’s requirements. Some states have reciprocity agreements, but the plumber must still register locally.
Q: How long does a plumbing license last?
A: Most licenses expire every 1–2 years and require renewal with proof of continuing education or insurance. Always check the expiration date during verification.
Q: Is a “handyman” license the same as a plumbing license?
A: No. Handymen can handle minor fixes (like replacing a faucet washer), but any work involving pipe installation, gas lines, or sewer systems typically requires a licensed plumber. When in doubt, assume plumbing = licensed pro.
Q: What should I do if I find out my plumber wasn’t licensed?
A: Stop work immediately. Contact your state licensing board to file a complaint. If you’ve already paid, you may be able to dispute charges or seek restitution through small claims court—especially if damage occurred.
Q: Can I verify a license over the phone?
A: Yes! Most state licensing boards offer phone verification. Have the plumber’s name and license number ready. But online lookup is faster and provides more detail (like disciplinary history).
Conclusion: Don’t Skip This Simple Safety Step
Knowing how can I find out if a plumber is licensed isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your home, your wallet, and your family’s safety. With free online tools, a quick phone call, and a few minutes of your time, you can avoid scams, shoddy work, and legal headaches.
✅ Take action today: Before signing any contract, verify that license. It’s the smartest (and easiest) thing you’ll do all day.
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