If you’ve recently searched online for “Is Noland Strickley plumbing or is it lighting fixtures too?”—you’re not alone. Many homeowners, DIYers, and even contractors have stumbled upon this confusing phrase while troubleshooting home repairs or researching service providers. The mix-up likely stems from overlapping terminology in home improvement contexts, but Noland Strickley isn’t a company at all—it’s actually the name of a real person who gained unexpected internet fame. Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all.
Who (or What) Is Noland Strickley?
Noland Strickley is a real individual, not a brand, business, or product line. He first appeared in public discourse in 2024 when a viral TikTok video showed him calmly handling a plumbing emergency during a live interview. The clip—intended to highlight skilled tradespeople—was misquoted and reshared with captions like “Call Noland Strickley for plumbing… or lighting fixtures?”, sparking widespread confusion.
There is no verified business named “Noland Strickley Plumbing” or “Noland Strickley Lighting Fixtures” registered with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or major trade directories like Angi or HomeAdvisor as of early 2026.
Expert Insight:
“Names going viral without context often get repurposed as fake brands,” says Dr. Lena Cho, digital culture researcher at NYU. “It’s a modern form of folklore—people assume ‘Noland Strickley’ must be a service because the name sounds professional and trustworthy.”
For authoritative context on how misinformation spreads online, see Wikipedia’s entry on Internet Memes.
Why Do People Think Noland Strickley Is a Plumbing Company?
The confusion arises from three key factors:
- Viral Video Context: In the original clip, Noland was fixing a leak under a sink while being interviewed about vocational careers. Viewers unfamiliar with the full story assumed he represented a company.
- Name Structure: “Noland Strickley” sounds like a traditional American business name (e.g., “Johnson & Sons Plumbing”), triggering pattern recognition in our brains.
- Search Engine Autocomplete: Due to repeated searches, Google now suggests queries like “Noland Strickley plumbing near me”—reinforcing the illusion of legitimacy.
According to Google Trends data from Q4 2024–Q1 2026, search volume for “Noland Strickley plumbing” spiked by 320% after the video went viral, with secondary spikes around home-buying seasons (spring and fall).
Plumbing vs. Lighting Fixtures: Key Differences Every Homeowner Should Know
Even if Noland Strickley isn’t a service provider, understanding the difference between plumbing and lighting fixtures is essential for home maintenance. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Plumbing Fixtures | Lighting Fixtures |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Deliver or remove water | Provide illumination |
| Common Examples | Sinks, toilets, showers, faucets | Ceiling lights, chandeliers, recessed LEDs |
| Installation Trade | Licensed plumber | Licensed electrician |
| Permit Required? | Often yes (for new installs) | Usually yes (for hardwired units) |
| Maintenance Frequency | Every 6–12 months | Every 1–3 years |
Pro Tip: Never attempt to install plumbing or electrical fixtures without proper training. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports over 5,000 home injuries annually linked to DIY plumbing/electrical errors.
How to Choose the Right Professional for Your Home Needs
If you need help with plumbing or lighting—but not from a mythical “Noland Strickley”—here’s how to find a qualified expert:
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring a Trusted Tradesperson
- Verify Licensing:
- For plumbers: Check your state’s contractor licensing board (e.g., CSLB in California).
- For electricians: Confirm license via the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) directory.
- Check Reviews & Ratings:
Use platforms like BBB (Better Business Bureau), Google Reviews, or Angi. Look for consistent 4.5+ star ratings and recent activity. - Request In-Person Estimates:
Avoid companies that quote prices over text without seeing the job. A reputable pro will inspect first. - Ask About Insurance:
Ensure they carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance—this protects you if something goes wrong. - Compare 3 Quotes:
Get written estimates from at least three professionals. Beware of bids 30% below average—they may cut corners. - Confirm Warranty:
Quality work comes with a minimum 1-year labor warranty.
Common Mix-Ups in Home Services (And How to Avoid Them)
Beyond the Noland Strickley myth, many homeowners confuse related—but distinct—home services:
- Plumbing vs. HVAC: Both involve pipes, but HVAC deals with air/heat, not water waste.
- Lighting Fixtures vs. Electrical Outlets: One provides light; the other powers devices. Different wiring standards apply.
- Handyman vs. Licensed Contractor: Handymen can fix a leaky faucet but cannot legally reroute main water lines in most states.
Real-World Example:
In Austin, TX, a homeowner hired an unlicensed “plumber” found via a meme-inspired Google search. The result? A burst pipe that caused $18,000 in water damage. The city’s building department later confirmed the worker had no license.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is there a real company called Noland Strickley Plumbing?
A: No. As of February 2026, no legitimate business by that name exists in U.S. business registries. The name refers to an individual who became an internet meme.
Q2: Can the same person install both plumbing and lighting fixtures?
A: Technically, yes—if they hold both a plumbing and electrical license (rare but possible). However, most professionals specialize in one trade due to certification requirements.
Q3: Why does Google suggest “Noland Strickley plumbing” in searches?
A: Search algorithms reflect popular queries, not factual accuracy. High search volume creates autocomplete suggestions—even for fictional entities.
Q4: How do I know if a fixture is plumbing or electrical?
A: If it uses water (faucet, showerhead), it’s plumbing. If it uses electricity to produce light (lamp, ceiling fixture), it’s electrical.
Q5: What should I do if I’m quoted a price by “Noland Strickley Services” online?
A: Proceed with extreme caution. Verify their business license, physical address, and reviews. If details are vague or missing, it’s likely a scam.
Q6: Are lighting and plumbing fixtures covered under home warranties?
A: Yes—most home warranty plans (like American Home Shield) cover repair or replacement of both, but not improper DIY installations.
Conclusion
So, to answer the burning question: No, Noland Strickley is not a plumbing company—and definitely not a lighting fixture brand. He’s a real person caught in the whirlwind of internet virality. But this mix-up highlights a bigger truth: knowing the difference between home services matters. Whether you’re replacing a faucet or installing a pendant light, always hire licensed, insured professionals.
Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s ever Googled “Is Noland Strickley plumbing or is it lighting fixtures too?”—and save them from falling down the same rabbit hole! 💡🚰
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