Checking a North Carolina Plumbing Contractor
North Carolina has licensed plumbing contractors through a state board since 1931. After a disaster especially, it's worth checking who you're hiring.
Request a plumberThe state board
Plumbing contractors in North Carolina are licensed by the State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors, created by the General Assembly in 1931.
License classes
Classes include Plumbing Contracting Class I and Class II, Restricted Limited Plumbing Contractor and Plumbing Technician. Ask which license the contractor holds.
Check it
Ask for the license number and look it up with the state board before work starts.
Permits
Water heater replacements, sewer repairs and remodels often need a permit and inspection. Ask who will arrange it.
After a disaster
Be wary of anyone who wants full payment upfront, can't show a license or offers to skip a permit.
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Questions to ask
Who will actually do the work, and what license do they hold? Is the business insured? How long will the water be off? What warranty covers the labor and any new equipment? A good contractor answers these clearly.
Get it in writing
For anything beyond a small repair, ask for a written quote that lists the work, materials and permit. Compare quotes by what's included rather than by the total alone.
Keep the paperwork
Keep the invoice, permit and warranty papers together with your home records. If you're making an insurance claim after flood damage, those papers are essential.
Gas work
If the job involves a gas or propane water heater, appliance connection or gas line, ask whether the contractor is licensed for that work too. Gas piping usually needs a permit and a pressure test before the gas goes back on.
More plumbing guides
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