Hiring a plumber can feel stressful—especially when you’re unsure if they’re actually licensed to work in Michigan. A quick license check could save you from shoddy work, costly repairs, or even legal trouble. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to check a licence for a plumber in Michigan, step by step, using official state resources. No guesswork. Just peace of mind.
Why Verifying a Plumber’s License in Michigan Matters
In Michigan, plumbing work that affects health, safety, or structural integrity must be performed by a licensed professional. According to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), unlicensed plumbing work is not only illegal—it can void your homeowner’s insurance and lead to failed inspections.
A 2023 report from the Better Business Bureau found that nearly 1 in 5 home service complaints involved unlicensed contractors. Don’t become a statistic. Always verify before you hire.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if someone claims to be “certified” or “registered,” only a state-issued license from LARA is legally valid for plumbing work in Michigan.
What Types of Plumbing Licenses Exist in Michigan?
Michigan issues two main types of plumbing licenses:
| License Type | Who It’s For | Scope of Work |
|---|---|---|
| Journey Plumber | Individuals with 4+ years of experience | Can perform plumbing under a master plumber’s supervision |
| Master Plumber | Experienced professionals (6+ years) | Can design systems, pull permits, and run their own business |
Only Master Plumbers can legally operate a plumbing business or obtain permits for new installations. If a company sends a “technician” to your home, confirm that a Master Plumber oversees the work.
For more background on occupational licensing, see Wikipedia’s overview of professional licensure.
Step-by-Step: How to Check a Plumber’s License in Michigan
Follow these exact steps to verify any plumber’s license in under 2 minutes:
Step 1: Go to the Official LARA License Search Portal
Visit: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/licensing
→ Click “Search for a License” under the “License Verification” section.
Step 2: Enter the Plumber’s Details
You can search by:
- Full name (e.g., “John Smith”)
- Business name (e.g., “Great Lakes Plumbing LLC”)
- License number (if provided)
⚠️ Note: Use the exact spelling as it appears on their business card or invoice. Typos may return no results.
Step 3: Review the License Status
Look for these key indicators:
- Status: Should say “Active”
- License Type: “Master Plumber” or “Journey Plumber”
- Expiration Date: Ensure it hasn’t passed
- Disciplinary Actions: Check for suspensions or fines
If the status says “Inactive,” “Expired,” or “Revoked,” do not hire them.
Step 4: Save or Print the Verification
Click “Print” or take a screenshot. Keep it for your records—especially if you’re filing an insurance claim or permit application later.
Red Flags That Signal an Unlicensed Plumber
Even if someone avoids showing you a license, watch for these warning signs:
- Cash-only payments with no receipt
- No physical business address (only a P.O. box or vague location)
- Reluctance to provide a written estimate
- Pressure to pay upfront (more than 10% deposit is risky)
- Vehicle has no company branding or license info
According to LARA, over 300 unlicensed plumbing violations were cited in Michigan in 2024 alone—many involving homeowners who skipped verification.
What to Do If You Find an Unlicensed Plumber
If your search shows no license—or worse, a revoked one—take action:
- Do not proceed with the job.
- Report them to LARA via their online complaint form: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/complaints
- Leave a public review on Google or BBB to warn others.
Reporting protects your community and helps LARA enforce safety standards.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Checking Licenses
Avoid these pitfalls:
- ❌ Assuming “bonded and insured” means licensed (it doesn’t!)
- ❌ Trusting a photo of a license without verifying it online
- ❌ Confusing a business license (required for all companies) with a plumbing license (specific to trade)
Remember: A plumbing license is issued to an individual, not just a company. Always verify the person doing the work.
FAQ: How to Check a Plumber’s License in Michigan
Q1: Is plumbing licensure required in all Michigan cities?
A: Yes. State law requires all plumbers performing work beyond minor repairs (like unclogging a drain) to hold a valid Michigan plumbing license. Local municipalities (e.g., Detroit, Grand Rapids) do not issue separate plumbing licenses—they defer to LARA.
Q2: Can I check a license by phone?
A: Yes, but online is faster. Call LARA’s Bureau of Construction Codes at (517) 241-9322 during business hours (8 AM–5 PM ET, Mon–Fri). Have the plumber’s full name or license number ready.
Q3: What if the plumber is licensed in another state?
A: Out-of-state licenses are not valid in Michigan unless the plumber holds a Michigan endorsement. Always verify through LARA—even if they’re licensed in Ohio or Indiana.
Q4: How often do plumbing licenses expire in Michigan?
A: Every 3 years. Renewal requires continuing education and proof of liability insurance. An expired license = illegal to work.
Q5: Are apprentice plumbers allowed to work alone?
A: No. Apprentices must be directly supervised by a Master Plumber at all times. If an “apprentice” shows up alone, it’s a red flag.
Q6: Does a handyman need a plumbing license for small jobs?
A: It depends. Replacing a faucet washer? Usually fine. Installing a water heater or altering pipes? Requires a licensed plumber. When in doubt, verify.
Conclusion: Protect Your Home—Verify Before You Hire
Knowing how to check a licence for a plumber in Michigan isn’t just bureaucratic—it’s a smart, responsible move that safeguards your home, health, and finances. With LARA’s free online tool, verification takes less time than brewing a cup of coffee.
✅ You now know:
- Where to search (official LARA portal)
- What to look for (active status, license type)
- Warning signs of fraud
- How to report violations
Don’t risk it. Always verify.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it on Facebook, Pinterest, or Nextdoor to help neighbors avoid plumbing scams!
Stay safe, stay licensed—and never let a pipe dream turn into a nightmare.
Leave a Reply