Introduction
What makes hiring a licensed plumber so important is that you are hiring an experienced professional to get the job done safely. Plumbing is a complex task ranging from maintenance to repair work all the way to a brand-new installation. It is imperative that it is carried out by a licensed individual to avoid causing harm to yourself and others.
Expertise and Qualifications
Training to become a licensed plumber is a comprehensive and thorough process.
The first step to becoming a licensed plumber is to begin an apprenticeship.
Here, you will undergo a 4-year term as a plumbers apprentice and during this term, you will be expected to attend TAFE to complete a Certificate III in plumbing.
Once this term and certificate have been completed you can apply to be registered.
If you wish to become a licensed plumber you will need to complete a Certificate IV in plumbing.
Ensuring Safety and Compliance
The main benefit of hiring a licensed plumber, apart from the safety aspect is that they will know how to abide by the correct plumbing/building codes and regulations. Each local council will have its own rules and regulations to abide by as well.
There are certain industry standards, safety protocols and procedures a licensed plumber will abide by to make sure any work that is conducted is within the correct codes and regulations.
Hiring an unlicensed plumber or conducting plumbing work on your own would run the risk of failing to abide by these codes and regulations and could result in hefty fines and even possible jail time depending on the severity.
Codes and regulations can be updated regularly so being on top of this is essential.
Licensed plumbers are experts in:
- Problem-solving
- Have sound physical strength to carry heavy material and machinery
- Troubleshooting and decision-making abilities
- Customer care and communication
- Ability to perform under pressure and in emergency situations
- Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights
Quality Workmanship
The rigorous training, learning and hands-on experience a licensed plumber has undergone throughout the term of apprenticeship and thereafter sets the foundations for exceptional quality workmanship.
Over the period of an apprenticeship and career as a licensed plumber, vast knowledge and experience will have been gained from working in many different fields and areas all attached to the plumber industry.
Licensed plumbers with a vast background in domestic/residential will have a thorough understanding of the correct rules and regulations mentioned above and the correct know-how knowledge to carry out any work legally and of the highest standards and quality.
Whereas a licensed plumber that has spent a career in mining or industrial might not be as familiar.
With the knowledge of knowing how to complete work legally and to the correct standards, the knowledge of the correct tools for the job is just as important. Incorrect use of ladders, tools, equipment and machinery can be catastrophic and could cause serious injury to you, others and also the equipment and machinery which could cost thousands to repair or replace.
Using the correct material will save time and money because you won’t need to fix or replace broken or incorrect material after it either fails or is picked up by the local council or job auditor.
Insurance Coverage and Protection
A licensed plumber will be equipped with the correct insurance. If anything goes wrong their insurance will cover any repairs or damages incurred. They should also provide a warranty on their work.
Hiring a licensed plumber with the correct insurance could save a lot of pain and money rather than trying to carry out the work yourself.
A licensed plumber will most definitely guarantee their work by issuing a warranty. They will also have a broad knowledge of the best material and products to use. The top quality products will always offer their own warranty so if anything were to go wrong with the product itself the licensed plumber will be able to swap it out only charging a fee for the labor.
Insurance could include:
- Public liability insurance
- Crucial coverage carried by licensed plumbers. It protects homeowners from financial liability if someone is injured or their property is damaged during the plumbing work.
- Portable equipment cover (Tool insurance)
- Coverage that protects tools, equipment, and machinery. It provides financial compensation in the event of loss, theft, damage, or destruction of insured tools.
Other insurance could include:
- Professional indemnity insurance
- A type of insurance coverage that protects professionals and businesses against claims made by clients or third parties for financial losses, damages, or harm arising from the services or advice provided.
- Business insurance package
- A comprehensive insurance package designed to meet the insurance needs of small to medium-sized businesses. It combines various types of coverage into a single policy, offering convenience and cost savings compared to purchasing each coverage separately.
Conclusion
Hopefully this article has cleared up the reasons why it is so important to hire a licensed professional rather than to try and carry out any complex work tasks yourself.
Contacting a local licensed plumber in your area should be considered once a plumbing problem or complex task arises.
Written by Jonson Morrissey – Head of SEO at In Essence Consulting.
Writing for Dream Plumbing and Gas.
