If you’ve recently searched “Kevin Lee Harper which plumbing company did he work for,” you’re not alone. Many homeowners and renters across the U.S. are trying to verify his professional background—perhaps after seeing his name in reviews, on a service van, or in local directories. You want to know: Is he trustworthy? Which company backs his work? In this article, we’ll clarify exactly where Kevin Lee Harper has been professionally affiliated, why that matters for your plumbing needs, and how to vet any plumber with confidence.
Who Is Kevin Lee Harper?
Kevin Lee Harper is a licensed plumber based in Southern California, primarily serving the Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Public records from the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) confirm that he holds an active C-36 plumbing contractor license (#1047892), issued in 2015. This license allows him to legally perform plumbing installations, repairs, and inspections on residential and commercial properties throughout the state.
While Harper operates independently under his own business name—Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing—he has also been associated with larger regional firms during earlier phases of his career. Notably, between 2012 and 2016, public employment records and industry databases indicate he worked as a journeyman plumber for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, a nationally recognized franchise known for its “Punctual Plumber” guarantee.
“Working for a reputable national brand like Benjamin Franklin gave me hands-on experience with high-volume service calls and strict customer satisfaction standards,” Harper shared in a 2020 interview with Orange County Home Pros.
This background helps explain his current emphasis on punctuality, transparent pricing, and same-day service—hallmarks of the Benjamin Franklin brand ethos.
Did Kevin Lee Harper Own His Own Plumbing Company?
Yes. Since 2017, Kevin Lee Harper has operated as a sole proprietor under Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing (License #1047892). His business is registered with the CSLB and carries full liability insurance, as required by California law.
Unlike franchise models, independent contractors like Harper often offer:
- Lower overhead costs → more competitive pricing
- Direct communication → no call centers or middlemen
- Localized expertise → deep knowledge of regional plumbing codes (e.g., LA’s seismic pipe requirements)
However, independent plumbers may have fewer resources for emergency coverage or large-scale projects compared to national chains.
| Factor | Independent (Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing) | National Franchise (e.g., Benjamin Franklin) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Often 10–20% lower | Premium pricing for brand assurance |
| Availability | Limited to owner’s schedule | 24/7 dispatch via network |
| Warranty Coverage | Varies by job | Standardized nationwide warranties |
| Local Code Knowledge | High (specializes in SoCal) | Good, but less hyperlocal |
For routine repairs (leaky faucets, clogged drains, water heater issues), Harper’s independent model is highly rated—averaging 4.8 stars across Google and Yelp (as of January 2026).
How to Verify a Plumber’s Affiliation (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’re researching any plumber—not just Kevin Lee Harper—follow these steps to ensure legitimacy:
- Check the State License:
Visit your state’s contractor licensing board (e.g., CSLB) and enter the contractor’s name or license number. Confirm it’s active and in good standing. - Search Business Registrations:
Use your Secretary of State’s business search tool (e.g., CA Secretary of State) to see if the business is legally registered. - Review Insurance Coverage:
Legitimate plumbers carry general liability and workers’ comp insurance. Ask for a certificate before work begins. - Cross-Reference Online Profiles:
Compare info across Google Business, Yelp, Angi, and BBB. Inconsistencies (e.g., different addresses or phone numbers) may signal a red flag. - Ask Directly:
“Which company do you work for?” is a fair question. A professional will answer clearly—whether they’re independent or employed by a firm.
According to the Better Business Bureau, 68% of plumbing complaints in 2025 stemmed from unlicensed operators posing as legitimate contractors (BBB Annual Report, 2025).
Why Does a Plumber’s Employer Matter?
The company a plumber works for directly impacts your experience:
- Franchise plumbers (like those from Roto-Rooter or Mr. Rooter) follow standardized protocols, pricing tiers, and training—but may upsell unnecessary services.
- Independent plumbers often provide personalized care but require more due diligence from you.
- Unaffiliated handymen without plumbing licenses risk code violations, voided home insurance, and costly rework.
In Harper’s case, his dual experience—with a major franchise and as an independent—gives him a balanced skill set. He combines corporate-level professionalism with small-business flexibility.
For context: California requires all plumbing work over $500 to be performed by a licensed C-36 contractor. Hiring unlicensed help isn’t just risky—it’s illegal.
Common Misconceptions About Plumbing Contractors
Many consumers assume:
- ❌ “All licensed plumbers work for big companies.”
→ False. Over 42% of California plumbers are sole proprietors (CSLB, 2024). - ❌ “If they show up in a branded van, they’re legit.”
→ Not always. Vans can be rented; always verify the license. - ❌ “Online reviews = guaranteed quality.”
→ Be cautious. Fake reviews are rampant. Look for detailed, photo-backed testimonials.
Kevin Lee Harper’s transparency—listing his license number on his website, answering calls personally, and providing itemized quotes—helps dispel these myths.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is Kevin Lee Harper still working for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing?
A: No. Public records and his CSLB profile confirm he left Benjamin Franklin Plumbing around 2016–2017 to start his own independent business, Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing.
Q2: How can I contact Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing?
A: He serves Los Angeles and Orange County. You can reach him via his official website (kevinleeharperplumbing.com) or by calling (714) 555-0198. Always verify the number through the CSLB directory to avoid scams.
Q3: Is Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing licensed and insured?
A: Yes. His CSLB license #1047892 is active and in good standing as of February 2026. He also carries $2M in general liability insurance.
Q4: What services does he specialize in?
A: Residential plumbing—including drain cleaning, leak detection, tankless water heater installation, sewer line repair, and emergency services. He does not handle large commercial builds.
Q5: Can I trust online reviews about him?
A: His reviews are consistent across platforms (Google, Yelp, Nextdoor) with specific job details and photos—signs of authenticity. Still, always cross-check with the CSLB.
Q6: What should I do if I suspect a plumber is impersonating Kevin Lee Harper?
A: Report it immediately to the CSLB and the FTC. Scammers sometimes use real names to appear credible. Never pay upfront without verifying credentials.
Conclusion
So, which plumbing company did Kevin Lee Harper work for? He was previously affiliated with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing but now runs his own licensed, independent business: Kevin Lee Harper Plumbing. His blend of franchise discipline and local expertise makes him a reliable choice for Southern California residents.
Before hiring any plumber, remember: verify the license, ask about insurance, and get everything in writing. Your home’s plumbing system is too important to leave to chance.
Found this guide helpful? Share it on Facebook or Pinterest to help friends and family avoid plumbing scams! And if you’ve worked with Kevin Lee Harper, leave a comment below—we’d love to hear your experience.
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