Hiring a plumber might seem straightforward—until you realize the person you booked isn’t legally allowed to do the work. In the U.S., plumbing is a regulated trade, and hiring an unregistered or unlicensed plumber can lead to poor workmanship, safety hazards, or even legal trouble. If you’re wondering how to check if a plumber is registered, you’re not alone. Millions of homeowners face this dilemma every year. The good news? Verifying a plumber’s credentials is simpler than you think—and this guide walks you through it, step by step.
Why Does It Matter If a Plumber Is Registered?
Before diving into the “how,” it’s crucial to understand the “why.” In most U.S. states, plumbers must be licensed or registered to legally perform work—especially for jobs involving gas lines, sewage systems, or structural alterations. Here’s why verification matters:
- Safety: Licensed plumbers are trained to follow building codes and safety standards.
- Accountability: Registered professionals carry insurance and bonds—protecting you if something goes wrong.
- Quality Assurance: Licensing typically requires passing exams and completing apprenticeships.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 500,000 plumbers in the U.S., but not all operate legally. A 2023 report by the National Association of Home Builders found that 1 in 5 home repair complaints involved unlicensed contractors.
How to Check If a Plumber Is Registered: 5 Simple Steps
Step 1: Ask for Their License Number Directly
Start with the simplest method: ask the plumber for their license number. A legitimate, registered plumber won’t hesitate to provide it. Note: “Registered” and “licensed” may differ by state—some states require registration for basic work and full licensure for complex jobs.
Pro Tip: Write down the full name of the company and the individual plumber. Sometimes, only the business is licensed, not the technician sent to your home.
Step 2: Verify Through Your State’s Licensing Board
Each state has a contractor or plumbing licensing board (often under the Department of Consumer Affairs or Professional Regulation). Here’s how to use it:
- Visit your state’s official licensing website (e.g., CSLB for California, DBPR for Florida).
- Use the “License Lookup” or “Verify a License” tool.
- Enter the plumber’s name, business name, or license number.
- Check the status: Active, Expired, or Suspended.
✅ Example: In Texas, use the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners portal. Enter the license number, and you’ll see expiration dates, classification (e.g., Journeyman vs. Master), and any disciplinary actions.
⚠️ Avoid third-party sites that mimic government portals—always confirm the URL ends in .gov.
Step 3: Confirm Insurance and Bonding
A valid license doesn’t always mean adequate coverage. Ask for:
- General liability insurance (covers property damage)
- Workers’ compensation insurance (covers injuries to their team)
Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the insurer to verify it’s current. Without this, you could be liable for accidents on your property.
Step 4: Cross-Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
While not a licensing authority, the BBB offers valuable insights:
- Accreditation status
- Customer reviews
- Complaint history
Visit bbb.org, search the business name, and look for patterns (e.g., repeated complaints about unlicensed work).
Step 5: Look for Local Business Registration
Some cities or counties require local business licenses in addition to state plumbing licenses. Contact your city clerk’s office or check their official website for a business registry.
What If the Plumber Isn’t Registered?
Hiring an unregistered plumber carries real risks:
| Risk | Potential Consequence |
|---|---|
| Poor Workmanship | Leaks, code violations, costly repairs |
| No Legal Recourse | Hard to sue or file insurance claims |
| Voided Home Insurance | Your policy may deny water damage claims |
| Fines | Some states fine homeowners for hiring unlicensed contractors |
In extreme cases, like improper gas line installation, unlicensed work can even endanger lives.
As plumbing expert Maria Lopez (Master Plumber, 18 years’ experience) states:
“A license isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s proof the plumber understands local codes, safety protocols, and ethical standards.”
For more on occupational licensing in the U.S., see the [Wikipedia entry on professional licensure](https.
State-by-State Variations: What You Should Know
Plumbing regulations vary widely. Here’s a quick snapshot:
| State | Licensing Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | ✅ Yes | CSLB license mandatory for jobs over $500 |
| Texas | ✅ Yes | Statewide licensing through TSBPE |
| Florida | ✅ Yes | Requires state certification or registration |
| New York | ⚠️ Local only | No state license; check city/county rules (e.g., NYC requires DOB registration) |
| Colorado | ❌ No state license | But most counties (e.g., Denver) require local licenses |
Always check your specific city and county, not just your state.
Red Flags That a Plumber Might Be Unlicensed
Watch for these warning signs:
- Cash-only payments or refusal to provide a written contract
- Vague answers about licensing or insurance
- No physical business address (only a P.O. box or residential address)
- Pressure to pay upfront (reputable plumbers usually require a deposit, not full payment)
If you spot these, walk away—and report them to your state licensing board.
FAQ: How to Check If a Plumber Is Registered
Q1: Is “registered” the same as “licensed” for plumbers?
A: Not always. In some states (like Florida), “registered” plumbers can do basic work under supervision, while “licensed” (certified) plumbers handle all jobs independently. Always verify what your state allows.
Q2: Can I check a plumber’s license online for free?
A: Yes. Every state’s official licensing board offers free online verification. Avoid paid “verification” services—they’re unnecessary and potentially scammy.
Q3: What if the plumber is licensed in another state?
A: A license isn’t transferable across state lines. A plumber licensed in Georgia cannot legally work in Alabama unless they obtain Alabama credentials. Always verify in your state.
Q4: Do handymen need a plumbing license?
A: It depends. If the handyman is doing minor plumbing (e.g., fixing a faucet), some states allow it under a general handyman license. But for pipe installation, water heater replacement, or sewer work—a plumbing license is almost always required.
Q5: How often do plumbing licenses expire?
A: Most licenses expire every 1–2 years and require continuing education for renewal. Always check the expiration date during verification.
Q6: What should I do if I hired an unlicensed plumber by accident?
A: Stop work immediately. Contact your state licensing board to report them. If damage occurred, consult a lawyer—your homeowner’s insurance might not cover unlicensed work.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check if a plumber is registered isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your home, your family, and your wallet. With just a few minutes and the right tools, you can avoid scams, ensure quality, and hire with confidence.
Don’t leave your plumbing to chance. Verify before you hire—it’s the smartest first step any homeowner can take.
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Stay safe, stay informed, and happy plumbing!
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