Why You Should Hire a Licensed Plumber

The Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Plumber

Why You Should Hire a Professional Licensed Plumber

Hi, I’m Mark Vargas, owner of Silverback Plumbing and Drain. When you have a leak, a clogged drain, or a major plumbing emergency, who do you call? While it may be tempting to hire a handyman or attempt a DIY fix, the best choice is always a licensed plumber.

At Silverback Plumbing, we believe in providing expert plumbing services that ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with state regulations. In this guide, we’ll explain why hiring a licensed plumber is crucial, outline the licensing process in Texas, and highlight the benefits of choosing a qualified professional for your plumbing needs.

Understanding Plumbing Licenses in Texas

A licensed plumber in Texas is certified by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) and has undergone extensive training and testing to ensure they meet high industry standards. Below are the different types of plumbing licenses and their requirements.

1. Tradesman Plumbing License (Residential Work Only)

A Tradesman Plumber is qualified to work on single-family and two-family dwellings but not commercial buildings. To obtain this license, a plumber must:

• Accumulate 4,000 hours of plumbing experience under a Master Plumber.
• Complete 24 hours of approved training courses, including:
  
  • 9 hours of residential code training.
  • 9 hours of OSHA safety training.
  • 6 hours of continuing education.
• Pass the Tradesman Plumbing Exam, which consists of:
  
  • A 100-question written test.
  • A hands-on practical exam proving knowledge of blueprints, material selection, and proper installation techniques.
• Complete annual continuing education courses to maintain the license.

2. Journeyman Plumbing License (Residential & Commercial Work)

A Journeyman Plumber is qualified to work on both residential and commercial properties. To become a Journeyman Plumber, one must:

• Accumulate 8,000 hours of plumbing experience under a Master Plumber.
• Complete 48 hours of approved training, including:
  
  • 9 hours of residential code training.
  • 9 hours of OSHA safety training.
  • 12 hours of continuing education training.
  • 18 hours of commercial code training.
• Pass the Journeyman Plumbing Exam, which includes:
  
  • A 100-question written exam.
  • A hands-on practical exam testing blueprint reading, material selection, and installation skills.
• Take continuing education courses annually to maintain the license.

3. Master Plumber License (Residential & Commercial Work, Supervision)

A Master Plumber has the highest level of certification and is authorized to work on all plumbing systems, supervise apprentices, and lead commercial projects. To earn a Master Plumber license, one must:

• Hold a Journeyman Plumber license for at least four years.
• Pass the Master Plumbing Exam, which includes:
  
  • A 100-question written test.
  • Engineering and planning tasks.

4. Responsible Master Plumber (RMP) - Business Owner/Operator

A Responsible Master Plumber (RMP) is a business owner or operator who meets additional requirements, including:

• Holding an active Master Plumber license.
• Carrying a minimum of $300,000 in commercial liability insurance.

Why Hiring a Licensed Plumber is Essential

Now that you understand the training and qualifications required to become a licensed plumber, let’s explore why hiring one is crucial for your home or business.

1. Insurance & Liability Protection

Unlike handymen, licensed plumbers are insured, which protects you from financial responsibility in case of accidents or damages. Most plumbing companies, including Silverback Plumbing, carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance to ensure your home or business is covered.

Additionally, most homeowners' insurance policies do not cover damages caused by unlicensed plumbing work, meaning DIY fixes or handyman repairs could cost you thousands in repairs if something goes wrong.

2. Permits & Inspections

Many plumbing jobs require permits and inspections to ensure compliance with local building codes. Licensed plumbers handle all necessary paperwork, ensuring your project meets safety regulations and avoids fines or legal issues.

At Silverback Plumbing, we take care of permit applications and inspections to guarantee that your plumbing system is installed correctly and up to code.

3. Code Compliance & Safety

Plumbing work must adhere to state and city building codes to prevent hazards like gas leaks, pipe bursts, and water contamination. Licensed plumbers are trained to follow all safety standards, ensuring that your system functions properly and does not pose a risk to your home.

A handyman may offer a lower price, but cutting corners on safety and compliance can lead to expensive repairs or even health risks.

4. Proper Diagnosis & Expert Solutions

Licensed plumbers have the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to accurately diagnose plumbing issues. Whether it’s a small leak or a major pipe failure, hiring a licensed professional ensures the correct solution is applied the first time, preventing recurring issues and saving you money in the long run.

5. Quality Workmanship & Long-Term Savings

Plumbing is a skilled trade that requires precision. Licensed plumbers have extensive training in:

• Installing water heaters, pipes, and fixtures correctly.
• Detecting leaks and preventing water damage.
• Ensuring proper drainage and water pressure.

By choosing a licensed plumber, you’re investing in high-quality workmanship that lasts, reducing the need for frequent repairs and saving you money over time.

Why Choose Silverback Plumbing?

At Silverback Plumbing and Drain, we are licensed, insured, and highly experienced, offering expert plumbing services throughout San Antonio. Here’s why customers trust us:

✅ Licensed and Certified Plumbers – All our technicians meet state requirements for training and licensing. ✅ Comprehensive Services – We handle everything from leak detection to major plumbing installations. ✅ Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees—just honest, upfront pricing. ✅ Fast and Reliable Service – We respond quickly to emergencies and scheduled maintenance calls. ✅ Quality Work Guaranteed – We stand behind our work, ensuring customer satisfaction.

Call Silverback Plumbing Today!

The next time you need plumbing services, don’t risk your home’s safety and efficiency by hiring an unlicensed handyman. Trust the experts at Silverback Plumbing and Drain for professional, code-compliant, and long-lasting solutions.