Checking a Washington Plumber Before You Hire
In Washington, plumbing contract work is done by licensed plumbing contractors. A few minutes of checking before you hire protects your home and your money.
Request a plumberContractor licensing
Under state law, plumbing contract work must be done by a Licensed Plumbing Contractor. Each contractor must name a certified plumber as its designated plumber, and must carry a bond and liability insurance.
Verify with L&I
The Washington Department of Labor & Industries has a free "Verify a Contractor, Tradesperson, or Business" tool on its website. Search the business name and check that its license is active and not suspended.
Ask about permits
Many plumbing jobs, such as water heater replacements and new lines, need a permit and inspection. Ask who will pull the permit and when the inspection happens.
Get it in writing
For larger jobs, ask for a written quote that lists the work, materials, permit and clean-up. Compare quotes by what's included, not only the total.
Questions worth asking
How long will the job take? Will the water be off, and for how long? Who do I contact if something leaks after the work is done?
Ready to start
When you know what you need, send a request with the details. See our services.
Red flags
Be careful with anyone who asks for full payment before starting, won't give a business name you can look up, or suggests skipping the permit to save money. A licensed contractor should be comfortable showing you its license number and explaining the inspection. If something feels rushed, it's fine to take a day and check.
After the job
Keep the invoice, the permit card and any warranty paperwork together with your home records. Note the brand and model of anything installed, such as a water heater or valve. If a leak or problem shows up later, those details make it much quicker for the same contractor, or a new one, to help.
More plumbing guides
Request a plumber
Repairs, renovations and new projects. Tell us what you need and we'll pass it straight to a plumber, who will call you to go over the job and give you a quote.
- Plumbing repairs, renovations and new projects
- Yakima and the Upper Valley towns
- Get a quote before any work starts
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