Hiring a plumber can feel stressful—especially when you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, clogged drain, or worse, a burst pipe. But before you hand over your hard-earned money or let someone into your home, you need to ask one critical question: “How do I know if my plumber is licensed?”
A licensed plumber isn’t just a legal requirement in most states—it’s your guarantee of quality, safety, and accountability. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, actionable steps to verify a plumber’s license, explain why it matters, and help you avoid unqualified contractors who could cost you thousands in repairs or even legal trouble.
Why Does a Plumbing License Matter?
A plumbing license isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s proof that a professional has met state-specific standards for training, experience, and knowledge of local building codes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 480,000 plumbers are employed in the U.S., but not all operate legally.
Hiring an unlicensed plumber can lead to:
Poor workmanship that fails inspection
Voided home insurance claims
Safety hazards (e.g., gas leaks, water contamination)
No legal recourse if something goes wrong
In fact, a 2023 report by the National Association of Home Builders found that nearly 22% of plumbing-related insurance claims involved work done by unlicensed contractors.
How to Verify If Your Plumber Is Licensed: 5 Reliable Methods
1. Ask for Their License Number—Directly
Start with the simplest step: ask your plumber for their license number. A legitimate professional will provide it willingly—often on their business card, truck, or invoice.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just take their word for it. Write down the number and verify it independently (see next steps).
2. Check Your State’s Contractor Licensing Board Website
Every U.S. state (except Kansas, Missouri, and Wyoming, which have limited or local-only licensing) maintains a public database of licensed plumbers. Here’s how to use it:
Go to your state’s official contractor licensing board (e.g., CSLB for California, TDLR for Texas).
Search by name, business name, or license number.
Confirm the license is active, in good standing, and covers plumbing (some licenses are for general contracting only).
⚠️ Warning: If the license is expired, suspended, or doesn’t list plumbing as a classification, walk away.
3. Look for the License Displayed On-Site or Online
Licensed plumbers are often required by law to display their license number:
On their work vehicle
On business cards or invoices
On their official website (usually in the footer or “About Us” section)
If you can’t find it anywhere, that’s a red flag.
4. Call Your Local Building Department
Your city or county building department keeps records of who’s permitted to do plumbing work locally. Give them a call with the plumber’s name or company and ask:
“Is this contractor licensed to work in our jurisdiction?”
“Have there been any complaints or violations filed against them?”
This step is especially useful in states with decentralized licensing (like Colorado or Pennsylvania).
5. Use Third-Party Verification Tools (With Caution)
Sites like Angi (formerly Angie’s List), HomeAdvisor, or Better Business Bureau (BBB) often display license info—but always cross-check with your state’s official database. These platforms aren’t always up to date.
Demands full payment upfront (licensed pros usually require a deposit, not 100%)
Has no physical business address (only a P.O. box or vague location)
Offers unusually low prices (“$50 to fix your main sewer line!”)
No insurance documentation (a licensed plumber should carry liability and workers’ comp)
If you spot multiple red flags, do not proceed.
What Happens If You Hire an Unlicensed Plumber?
The consequences can be severe:
Insurance denial: Most homeowner policies won’t cover damage from unlicensed work.
Fines: In some states (like California), homeowners can be fined up to $5,000 for knowingly hiring unlicensed contractors.
Costly re-dos: Cities often require unpermitted plumbing to be ripped out and redone—by a licensed pro.
📌 Real-life example: In 2024, a Phoenix homeowner paid $3,200 to an unlicensed “plumber” who rerouted gas lines incorrectly. The city shut off their gas for 3 weeks until a licensed contractor fixed it—for another $8,700.
Licensed vs. Unlicensed Plumbers: Key Differences
Training & Experience
4–5 years apprenticeship + exam
None required
Follows Building Codes
Yes
Often ignores or unaware
Carries Insurance
Yes (required)
Rarely
Work is Inspectable
Yes
No—often done “under the radar”
Legal Recourse
Yes (via state board)
Very limited
Step-by-Step: How to Verify a Plumber’s License in Under 5 Minutes
Get the license number from the plumber (ask directly).
Open your state’s contractor license lookup tool (search “[Your State] plumbing license verification”).
Enter the license number or business name.
Check status: Must say “Active” or “Current.”
Confirm classification: Should include “Plumbing,” “C-36” (CA), or equivalent.
Review complaints or disciplinary actions (most state sites show this).
Save or screenshot the result for your records.
Done! You’ve just protected your home and wallet.
FAQ: Common Questions About Licensed Plumbers
Q1: Is a plumbing license required in every U.S. state?
A: No. While most states require state-level licensing, a few (like Missouri and Wyoming) leave it to counties or cities. Kansas has no statewide plumbing license. Always check your local jurisdiction, not just the state.
Q2: Can a handyman do plumbing without a license?
A: It depends. Minor tasks (like fixing a leaky faucet) may be allowed, but any work involving pipes, drains, gas lines, or water heaters usually requires a licensed plumber. When in doubt, assume a license is needed.
Q3: What if my plumber is licensed in another state?
A: That doesn’t count. Plumbing licenses are not transferable between states. They must be licensed in the state (and often city) where the work is performed.
Q4: How often do plumbing licenses expire?
A: Typically every 1–2 years. Plumbers must renew and often complete continuing education. Always verify the expiration date in the state database.
Q5: Does a company license cover all its employees?
A: Not necessarily. The company may be licensed, but the technician doing the work should also be a registered apprentice or journeyman under that license. Ask who will be in your home—and confirm their status if possible.
Q6: Can I report an unlicensed plumber?
A: Yes! Report them to your state contractor board or local building department. Many states offer anonymous reporting and even rewards for tips that lead to enforcement.
Conclusion
Knowing “how do I know if my plumber is licensed?” isn’t just a technicality—it’s a crucial step in protecting your home, your family, and your finances. With just a few minutes of verification, you can avoid scams, ensure code-compliant work, and gain peace of mind.
Don’t take chances with your plumbing. Verify before you hire.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with friends or on social media—someone you know might be about to hire a plumber right now! #LicensedPlumber #HomeSafety #PlumbingTips
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