How Do I Hire a Licensed Plumber in Virginia?
In Virginia, plumbers hold tradesman licenses (journeyman or master plumber) and contracting businesses hold contractor licenses, both issued by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Ask for the license numbers and look them up on DPOR's website before work starts.
Request a plumberWhat should I ask for?
The plumber's tradesman license number and the company's contractor license number. A licensed business won't mind you checking.
How do I check a license?
Use the license lookup on the DPOR website. It shows the name on the license, the type and whether it's current.
Does my job need a permit?
Water heater replacements, gas lines, new fixtures in a remodel and sewer work usually do. The plumber will know what Roanoke, Salem, Vinton or your county requires.
What should the quote say?
What will be done, the materials, whether permits and wall or floor patching are included, and how long you'll be without water.
Red flags
Pressure to sign on the spot, cash-only offers, no license number, or an offer to skip a required permit.
Ready?
Send a request and a plumber will get in touch to go over the job. For anything urgent, see emergency plumbing.
Who pulls the permit?
The licensed contractor doing the work normally pulls the permit and books the inspection. Be wary if you are asked to get a permit in your own name for work someone else is doing; it can leave you responsible if the work fails inspection.
Should I get more than one quote?
For a big job, yes. Compare what's included, not just the total: permits, patching, disposal of old fixtures and a warranty on parts and labor all change the real cost.
What about insurance?
Ask whether the business carries liability insurance and workers' compensation. If someone is hurt on your property or the work damages your home, that cover matters.
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