Why a License and Bond Matter When Hiring a Plumber

On marketing flyers and online advertisements, you’ll often see “licensed and bonded plumbers” included in the description. Many people have recognized this phrase, but aren’t exactly sure what it means. It’s very important that you hire a bonded, licensed and insured plumber in Pittsburgh, anytime you run into a plumbing issue. Otherwise, you could be working with someone who is operating illegally or is attempting to scam you out of your hard-earned money. At Neighborhood Plumbing in Pittsburgh, we understand how essential it is for home and business owners to work with a reliable, certified plumber, whether their dealing with a basic clog removal or a complete pipe replacement. If you’re unsure what the difference is between licensing, insurance and bonding, then this is the article for you.

License

All professionals need to be licensed to legally perform their services. Whether you’re hiring a plumber, electrician or building contractor, they must hold a license that is specific to their industry. While licensure requirements vary from state to state, most plumbers need to undergo years of training and apprenticeship to obtain certification and licensure. If someone is performing plumbing services without a license, then they have likely never finished their apprentice program, or didn’t bother to get professional training at all. 

Insurance

Insurance serves as a protection for both the plumbing company and the property owner. While liability insurance doesn’t directly protect the consumer, it does provide a reliable way for home and business owners to be compensated for financial losses that may occur due to personal injury or property damage. In addition, worker’s compensation insurance will pay the medical bills of an employee that is injured while on the job. This means that if a plumber breaks his hip while working on your water heater, he’ll be adequately compensated. Otherwise, there could be a risk that the employee will attempt to sue the property owner so they can pay their medical bills. 

Bond

A bond directly protects the property owner by covering any financial losses due to theft of goods or services. It can cause anxiety in many homeowners to allow people they’ve never met into their house. Therefore, many companies reassure their clients through bonds. It’s always a good idea to hire someone who is bonded for any service that is performed on your property. It will protect against stolen items or for unfinished work that’s already been contracted. For instance, if you paid a plumber that isn’t bonded, and they neglect to complete the job, it may be impossible to get your money back. However, if a bond is in place, you would be paid back in full and could hire a legitimate company to finish the project. 

Need a Bonded, Licensed and Insured Plumber in Pittsburgh, PA? Call Neighborhood Plumbing 

Are you searching for a certified Pittsburgh plumber? The experienced professionals at Neighborhood Plumbing are proud to provide residential and commercial plumbing services in Pittsburgh, PA neighborhoods. Contact our office today to find out more information about our wide range of services or to schedule a convenient appointment.