Plumbers Contractors
Plumbing contractors are people who install, repair and troubleshoot water pipes, fixtures, connections and appliances that make it possible for water to flow in and out of a building. They may work in the residential, commercial or industrial sectors. Some are self-employed and own their own plumbing contracting companies, while others work for larger plumbing firms.
A plumbing contractor works on more complex plumbing projects and specializes in installing new pipe systems, water heaters, sewage disposals and gas lines. They also inspect and test installed plumbing systems to ensure they are working properly. Typically, plumber near me work 40 hours per week and charge extra fees for emergency repairs. They are on standby 24/7 because emergencies happen without notice and can cause extensive damage to property if they are not dealt with quickly.
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In addition to the usual workweek, plumbing contractors may also need to work overtime on occasion due to construction jobs that take longer than expected to complete. They must also meet a number of other requirements to qualify for certification from local and state governments as a licensed plumber.
Are Plumbers Contractors?
The path to becoming a plumbing contractor is lengthy and involves a combination of educational hours and hands-on training. An apprenticeship program is the most common way to obtain the required knowledge and skills. It usually takes about four to five years and requires both theoretical and practical learning. During this period, apprentices must learn plumbing codes and regulations, blueprint reading and physics.
After they have completed an apprenticeship, plumbers must pass a state-sanctioned exam to become licensed. Once they have their license, they can start their own plumbing contracting business. They must have liability insurance, surety bonds and workers compensation to protect their company in the event of lawsuits. These are critical coverages that can protect a plumbing contractor against bodily injury, property damage and advertising claims.
A plumbing contractor must have equipment breakdown coverage to protect against expenses incurred when tools or parts are damaged during a job. The cost of repairing or replacing tools can be significant for a plumbing contractor, and they can experience interruptions in their work or lose contracts as a result.
Some insurance providers will offer special coverages designed for plumbing contractors. These policies can provide protection for business interruption, lost income and advertising expenses related to a single equipment breakdown. Another type of insurance is general liability, which covers damages to a customer’s property and injury or death to employees caused by their negligence. These coverages are often included in a package policy, but they can also be purchased separately.
Finally, a plumbing contractor must have homeowners insurance to cover their home or the structure they own and live in. They may also purchase personal liability coverage for their own safety, including medical and legal expenses, if they injure someone while doing their job. Plumbing is a complex and important industry, and it’s essential to understand the differences between plumbers and plumbing contractors so you can select the right professional for your project. By knowing the difference, you can save yourself time and money and prevent unnecessary delays.