Hiring the wrong plumber can cost you thousands—not just in repairs, but in potential legal and safety issues. That’s why knowing how to check if a plumber is licensed and insured is essential before letting anyone near your pipes. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a full bathroom remodel, verifying credentials protects you from scams, subpar work, and liability. Let’s walk through exactly how to do it—safely, confidently, and correctly.
Why Does It Matter If a Plumber Is Licensed and Insured?
Before diving into the “how,” understand the “why.” A licensed plumber has met state or local requirements for training, experience, and knowledge of plumbing codes. Insurance (typically general liability and workers’ compensation) protects you if something goes wrong—like property damage or an injury on your property.
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), nearly 30% of homeowners who hired unlicensed contractors reported significant issues, including code violations and unfinished work. Worse, if an uninsured worker gets hurt on your property, you could be held liable.
💡 Pro Tip: In many U.S. states, it’s illegal to perform plumbing work without a license for jobs over $500–$1,000. Always verify—even for “small” jobs.
Step-by-Step: How to Verify a Plumber’s License
1. Ask for Their License Number Upfront
Never skip this. A reputable plumber will provide their license number willingly—often on their business card, website, or truck. If they hesitate or say, “We don’t need one for small jobs,” that’s a red flag.
2. Check With Your State’s Licensing Board
Each state regulates plumbers differently. Most have online portals where you can search by name or license number. Here’s how:
- California: Use the CSLB License Check
- Texas: Visit the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
- New York: Search via the NY Department of State
🔍 How to do it:
- Go to your state’s official licensing website (search “[Your State] plumbing license lookup”).
- Enter the plumber’s business name or license number.
- Verify the license is active, not expired or suspended.
- Check the license class—some only cover residential, others commercial.
⚠️ Warning: Fake licenses exist. Always use the official government site, not third-party directories.
3. Confirm the Business Name Matches
Sometimes, individuals operate under a company name. Ensure the license is issued to the exact business you’re hiring—not a similar-sounding name. Mismatches often indicate fraud.
How to Confirm a Plumber Has Insurance
A license ≠ insurance. You need both.
1. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI)
Ask for a current COI naming your address as the “certificate holder.” Legitimate plumbers carry this and can email it within minutes.
Look for:
- General Liability Insurance ($1M+ recommended)
- Workers’ Compensation (required in most states if they have employees)
2. Call the Insurance Provider
Don’t just glance at the document. Call the insurer listed on the COI to confirm:
- The policy is active
- Coverage limits are sufficient
- Your job is covered under the policy terms
📌 Real Example: In 2023, a Florida homeowner paid $12,000 to fix water damage caused by an uninsured plumber who “cut a pipe wrong.” Because the plumber had no liability insurance, the homeowner’s own insurance denied the claim.
Red Flags: Signs a Plumber Might Be Unlicensed or Uninsured
Watch out for these warning signs:
- ❌ Cash-only payments or demands for large upfront deposits
- ❌ No physical business address or professional website
- ❌ Vague answers about licensing or insurance
- ❌ Pressure to start work immediately (“I’m leaving in 10 minutes!”)
- ❌ Prices significantly lower than competitors (often a bait tactic)
If you see two or more of these, walk away.
What Happens If You Hire an Unlicensed Plumber?
The risks are real:
| Risk | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Poor Workmanship | Leaks, code violations, failed inspections |
| No Legal Recourse | Hard to sue or get refunds without a licensed contractor |
| Insurance Denial | Your homeowner’s policy may void claims tied to unlicensed work |
| Fines | Some cities fine homeowners for hiring unlicensed pros |
In fact, a 2022 study by HomeAdvisor found that 41% of plumbing-related insurance claims were denied due to unlicensed labor.
State-by-State Differences: What You Should Know
Plumbing regulations vary widely. For example:
- Florida: Requires a statewide plumbing license; local permits mandatory for most jobs.
- Arizona: Allows “handyman exemptions” for minor plumbing—but not for gas lines or sewer work.
- Illinois: Chicago has its own licensing rules separate from the state.
👉 Always check your local rules. When in doubt, consult your city’s building department or visit Wikipedia’s overview of U.S. trades licensing for context.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can a plumber be licensed but not insured?
Yes. Licensing and insurance are separate. A plumber can legally hold a valid license but operate without insurance—which leaves you financially exposed. Always verify both.
Q2: How long does a plumbing license last?
Most licenses expire every 1–2 years and require renewal, continuing education, or proof of ongoing work. Always check the expiration date during verification.
Q3: What if the plumber is licensed in another state?
That doesn’t count. Plumbing licenses are not transferable between states. They must be licensed in the state (and sometimes city) where the work is performed.
Q4: Do I need to verify subcontractors too?
Absolutely. Even if you hire a general contractor, ask if they use subcontracted plumbers—and demand proof of their licenses and insurance. You’re still liable if something goes wrong.
Q5: Is there a national plumbing license?
No. The U.S. has no federal plumbing license. Regulation is handled at the state or municipal level.
Q6: What should I do if I find out my plumber wasn’t licensed after the job?
Contact your local licensing board to report them. Also, review your homeowner’s insurance policy—some offer limited coverage, but don’t count on it. In the future, always verify before work begins.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check if a plumber is licensed and insured isn’t just due diligence—it’s your best defense against costly mistakes, unsafe work, and legal headaches. With a few minutes of research using your state’s official tools, you can hire with confidence and peace of mind.
✅ Remember:
- Always ask for license & insurance docs
- Verify through government websites
- Never pay large sums upfront
- Trust your gut—if it feels off, it probably is
Found this guide helpful? Share it with friends or family who might be planning a home repair! A quick share could save someone from a plumbing nightmare. 💧🔧
Leave a Reply