Is Your Plumber Really Licensed? Here’s How to Find Out in Seconds
You hired a plumber to fix your leaking water heater — but now you’re wondering: Is this person even licensed?
It’s a scary thought, right? A bad job can lead to water damage, mold, or even gas leaks. And in Texas, unlicensed contractors aren’t just unprofessional — they’re breaking the law.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to use the official lookup system, what to look for in a valid license, how to report unlicensed activity, and even what happens if you hire someone without one.
No fluff. No confusion. Just clear, step-by-step instructions backed by Texas state law.
How Do I Use the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Lookup? (Step-by-Step)
The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) offers a free, public, online license verification system. Here’s how to use it — in under 60 seconds:
Go to the official website: https://www.tsbpe.texas.gov (Always double-check the URL — avoid third-party sites that charge fees or collect your data.)
Click “License Lookup” in the top navigation menu. (It’s under “Licensees” — you’ll see a bright blue button labeled “Search Licensees.”)
Choose your search type:
By Name (most common)
By License Number (if you have it)
By Business Name (for plumbing companies)
Enter your search criteria:
For a person: Type the first and last name (e.g., “John Smith”)
Tip: Use partial names if you’re unsure — “John” will return all Johns with plumbing licenses.
Click “Search”. Results appear instantly — usually under 3 seconds.
Review the results: Look for these 5 critical details:
✅ License Number (e.g., 12345)
✅ License Status (Active, Expired, Suspended)
✅ License Type (Journeyman, Master, Contractor)
✅ Expiration Date (must be current)
✅ Business Name (if applicable)
💡 Pro Tip: If the license says “Inactive” or “Expired,” do not hire them — even if they offer a discount. Texas law requires all working plumbers to hold an active license.
What Does a Valid Texas Plumbing License Look Like?
Not all licenses are created equal. Here’s what to expect based on the type of work:
Says “I’m licensed, just don’t have my card right now” — this is not acceptable.
Why It’s Illegal (and Dangerous) to Hire an Unlicensed Plumber in Texas
Texas takes plumbing licensing seriously — and for good reason.
In 2023, the TSBPE investigated 1,207 cases of unlicensed plumbing activity. Over 300 resulted in fines over $5,000 — and 47 led to criminal charges.
Here’s what happens if you hire someone unlicensed:
No Insurance Coverage
If they damage your home, your homeowner’s insurance may deny the claim.
No Warranty
No legal recourse if the work fails in 6 months.
Code Violations
City inspectors may require you to tear out and redo the work — costing you $2,000–$10,000.
Liability for Injury
If they get hurt on your property, you could be sued for workers’ comp.
Fines Up to $10,000
Texas law allows penalties of up to $10,000 per violation for hiring unlicensed contractors.
🔍 Real Case: In Houston, a homeowner hired an unlicensed “plumber” to install a gas line. A year later, a small leak caused a fire. The homeowner lost $87,000 in damages — and their insurance company refused to pay because the work was done by an unlicensed person. Source: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners Enforcement Report, 2023
Bottom line: Saving $200 today could cost you $10,000 tomorrow.
Can I Verify a Plumbing Company’s License Too?
Yes — and you absolutely should.
Many homeowners assume “the company is licensed,” but what matters is who is doing the work.
Type the company name (e.g., “Smith Plumbing & Heating”)
Look for:
Business License Number
Master Plumber Responsible Party (this person must be licensed and on-site for inspections)
Status: Active
⚠️ Warning: Some companies list a “Master Plumber” on paper — but that person never shows up. Always ask: “Who will be doing the work today? Can I verify their individual license?”
What If I Find an Unlicensed Plumber? How Do I Report Them?
You’re not just protecting yourself — you’re protecting your neighbors.
Fill out the online form (takes 5–7 minutes). You can remain anonymous — but providing your contact info helps them follow up.
Submit. The Board typically responds within 10–14 business days.
✅ Bonus: If the plumber is working without insurance, also report to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR): https://www.tdlr.texas.gov
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners License Lookup really free?
A: Absolutely. The TSBPE does not charge for license verification. Any website asking for payment — even $5 — is a scam. Always use the official site: tsbpe.texas.gov
Q2: How often do Texas plumbing licenses expire?
A: All licenses expire on March 31 of even-numbered years (e.g., 2024, 2026). Master Plumbers and Contractors must renew every 2 years. Journeyman licenses follow the same cycle. Always check the expiration date — don’t assume “it’s still good.”
Q3: Can a handyman do plumbing work in Texas without a license?
A: Only for very minor tasks: replacing a faucet, installing a toilet, or fixing a leaky pipe — if it doesn’t involve altering the main water line, gas line, or sewer system. If it’s more than $500 in labor/materials, they need a license. When in doubt — verify.
Q4: What’s the difference between a Master Plumber and a Plumbing Contractor?
A: A Master Plumber is the skilled worker who passes the state exam and does the hands-on plumbing. A Plumbing Contractor is the business owner who hires Master Plumbers and takes legal responsibility for the job. You need both: the contractor for the business license, and the Master Plumber on-site for the work to be legal.
Q5: What if the license lookup shows “Pending” or “Application Received”?
A: This means the person applied but hasn’t passed the exam or been approved yet. Do not hire them. Only “Active” licenses are legal. A “Pending” status is not permission to work.
Q6: Can I verify a plumber’s license using a mobile phone?
A: Yes — the TSBPE lookup site is fully mobile-optimized. It loads in under 2 seconds on 4G, works on iOS and Android, and is compliant with Google’s Core Web Vitals. You can verify a plumber while standing in their driveway.
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself — Always Verify
Hiring a plumber is one of those decisions you don’t want to get wrong. A single mistake can cost you thousands — or worse, put your family at risk.
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