When plumbing goes wrong, it often goes very wrong. A small leak can turn into water damage. A poorly connected pipe can lead to mold growth. An improperly installed water heater can become a safety hazard. Unfortunately, many homeowners only realize the importance of hiring a licensed, insured plumber after experiencing the costly consequences of trusting someone unqualified.
At Restoration Plumbing, we’ve seen many homeowners come to us after handymen left them with plumbing disasters that required expensive repairs. What may seem like a quick or inexpensive fix at first can spiral into a much bigger—and costlier—problem. This is why we emphasize the importance of choosing a qualified professional from the start.
Why Licensing Matters in Plumbing
Plumbing isn’t just about tightening pipes or unclogging drains. It involves water supply systems, sewage disposal, gas lines, and pressurized systems that, if mishandled, can cause significant health and safety hazards.
A plumbing license demonstrates that the individual has:
- Completed proper training (apprenticeships, trade school, or technical programs).
- Passed rigorous exams covering codes, safety, and technical knowledge.
- Kept up with state codes, which change regularly.
Hiring a licensed plumber means you’re working with someone who has been vetted and is legally authorized to perform the work. In most states and municipalities, it is illegal to perform plumbing work without a license. Choosing an unlicensed worker not only increases risks but can also void warranties and violate local laws. In Illinois, the law is clear: anyone providing plumbing services must be licensed, bonded, and insured. If a handyman—or even a neighbor—gets caught doing plumbing work without the proper credentials, it’s a $3,000 fine per occurrence.
Licensed plumbers in Illinois are governed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Plumbing is the only trade regulated by the Health Department because it is directly tied to public health. Issues with water supply, drainage, and even carbon monoxide cross-connections can put your family’s health in serious danger if handled incorrectly.
The Importance of Insurance
Plumbing work often involves cutting into walls, moving appliances, and dealing with pressurized systems. Mistakes can lead to flooding, water damage, or even fire hazards when gas lines are involved.
Insurance protects both you and the plumber:
- Liability Insurance: Covers damage to your property caused by the plumber’s mistakes.
- Workers’ Compensation: Covers injuries to the plumber while working in your home.
Without insurance, you—the homeowner—may be on the hook for damages or injuries. Imagine a handyman breaking a pipe that floods your basement, or slipping and getting hurt in your kitchen. Without proper insurance, those costs could land squarely on your shoulders.
The Dangers of Hiring Unlicensed or Uninsured Workers
Hiring the “guy down the street” or a handyman may feel like you’re saving money upfront, but the risks almost always outweigh the reward.
- Poor Workmanship
Unlicensed workers often lack formal training. This can result in sloppy connections, code violations, and dangerous installations. - Hidden Problems
A pipe that looks fine on the outside may be improperly sealed inside the wall. These hidden issues often don’t show up until significant damage has already been done. - Costly Redo Work
Having to redo botched plumbing work can cost several times more than doing it right the first time. - No Legal Recourse
Licensed plumbers are accountable to state boards. If something goes wrong, there’s a system for complaints and resolutions. With an unlicensed worker, you have little to no legal protection. - Health and Safety Risks
Plumbing touches on sanitation, water quality, and gas safety. Mistakes can lead to contaminated drinking water, mold infestations, or gas leaks—hazards that put your family’s health at risk.
How to Choose the Right Plumber
Now that you know what’s at stake, here’s how to make sure you hire a qualified professional.
1. Verify Licensing
Ask for their plumbing license number and verify it with your state or local licensing authority. Many municipalities have searchable databases.
2. Confirm Insurance
Request proof of both liability insurance and workers’ compensation. Don’t be afraid to ask for documentation—reputable plumbers will provide it without hesitation.
3. Check Reviews
Online reviews are one of the best ways to measure a plumber’s reputation. Look for consistent patterns of quality, professionalism, and reliability.
4. Check Experience
Experience matters, especially for complex jobs like re-piping, sewer line repairs, or water heater installations. Ask how long they’ve been in business and if they’ve handled similar projects.
5. Ask for References
A trustworthy plumber will gladly provide references or customer testimonials.
6. Get Multiple Estimates
Don’t automatically choose the cheapest bid. Extremely low prices often signal shortcuts or inexperience. Instead, compare estimates for both scope and detail.
7. Review Warranties and Guarantees
A qualified plumber will stand behind their work with warranties on labor and, when applicable, manufacturer warranties on parts.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
When interviewing plumbers, come prepared with specific questions. Here are some to consider:
- Are you licensed in this state/city?
- Can you provide proof of insurance?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have experience with this specific type of job?
- Can you provide a written estimate?
- What warranties or guarantees do you offer?
- Who will be performing the work—your employees or subcontractors?
- What’s your timeline for completing the job?
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Just as there are signs of a good plumber, there are also warning signs of someone you shouldn’t trust. Watch for:
- Refusal to provide a license or insurance documentation
- Extremely low bids compared to others
- Vague estimates without details
- Pushy sales tactics or “too good to be true” promises
- Poor communication or lack of professionalism
- No business address, website, or verifiable online presence
- Handymen who claim they can “do it all”—from plumbing to carpentry to electrical work. Plumbing requires specialized training and licensing, and anyone offering to handle every trade may not be qualified for such critical work.
The Long-Term Value of Hiring a Professional
While hiring a licensed, insured plumber may cost more upfront, it’s an investment in quality, safety, and peace of mind. Here’s why it pays off:
- Fewer Repairs Down the Road: Work done correctly lasts longer.
- Compliance with Codes: Prevents headaches when selling your home or during inspections.
- Better Materials and Techniques: Licensed professionals use the right tools and parts.
- Warranty Protection: Ensures you’re covered if something fails.
- Peace of Mind: You can trust that your plumbing system is safe and reliable.
Restoration Plumbing: Your Qualified Partner
At Restoration Plumbing, we pride ourselves on being fully licensed and insured. Our team combines years of hands-on experience with a commitment to doing things the right way, every time. Restoration Plumbing is proud to maintain a perfect 5-star rating, reflecting our dedication to excellent service.
When you choose us, you’re choosing:
- Licensed professionals who know the latest codes and standards
- Full insurance protection for your safety and ours
- Honest, upfront estimates
- Workmanship backed by warranties
- A team that values your home and your trust
Protect Your Home, Protect Your Health
Plumbing is too important to trust to anyone without proper credentials. While it may be tempting to hire a handyman, the risks to your home, health, and finances are far too great. Always verify licensing and insurance, check reviews, ask the right questions, and watch out for red flags.