When running a business in Manhattan, maintaining the plumbing system is one of the behind-the-scenes necessities that you can’t afford to ignore. Whether it’s a minor leak, a complex installation, or a plumbing emergency, commercial plumbing work is essential to keeping operations running smoothly.
Finding a qualified and licensed commercial plumber is crucial to ensure your business is properly taken care of. But is it actually a necessity for commercial plumbers to be licensed in Manhattan?
Do All Commercial Plumbers in Manhattan Need to be Licensed?
In order for a plumber to legally operate within New York City, they must obtain the proper licensing. This includes meeting certain educational and experience requirements, passing rigorous exams, and maintaining compliance with local regulations.
Commercial plumbers in Manhattan must obtain their Master Plumber license to legally perform commercial work on large-scale projects. Master Plumber licenses allow plumbers to pull permits, supervise other plumbers, and ensure that all plumbing work is completed according to the city’s building codes and safety regulations.
This is especially crucial for commercial projects, which often involve complex plumbing systems such as gas lines, drainage networks, and water supply systems that must meet strict standards to protect public health and safety.
While journeymen and apprentices can aid in commercial plumbing jobs, Master Plumber licenses are required in order for a commercial plumber to supervise or independently perform commercial plumbing projects.
The Dangers of Working With a Non-Licensed Plumber
Safety Hazards
The most immediate danger of working with a non-licensed plumber comes in the form of safety hazards. Non-licensed plumbers were likely not properly trained to work at the scale or with the complex systems required in commercial plumbing projects. Without proper training or knowledge of local codes, there’s a greater risk of faulty installations that could have disastrous consequences.
Code Violations
Plumbing work performed without a license can violate city codes, leading to expensive fines and forced rework, as well as potential legal liabilities for both the property owner and the unlicensed plumber.
Lack of Insurance
Licensed plumbers are properly ensured, meaning if anything goes wrong during the plumbing project and injury or property damage occurs, the insurance will cover the costs. This protects both the plumber and the property owner from potential financial liability. Non-licensed plumbers, though, are often uninsured, potentially leaving you liable if bodily or property damage occurs.
How to Verify if a Commercial Plumber Is Licensed
Verifying that a commercial plumber is licensed can provide you with peace of mind that the work is legal and high-quality. In New York City, you can check a plumber’s license status through the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) website, where you can search by the plumber’s name or license number. This database will confirm whether the plumber holds a valid Master Plumber license and whether it is up to date.
How Commercial Plumbers Maintain Their Licenses
While obtaining a Master Plumber is certainly an excellent accomplishment and provides the plumber with the proper licensing to perform commercial work in Manhattan, licenses must be renewed every three years to ensure that licensed and insured plumbers remain up-to-date with the latest industry standards and regulations.
As part of the renewal process, commercial plumbers are typically required to complete continuing education courses. These courses cover important updates to plumbing codes, new technologies, and safety practices.
Keeping their license current also requires that plumbers maintain the necessary insurance and bonding, which protects clients and ensures that they can continue to pull permits for commercial projects.
Need a Licensed Commercial Plumber in Manhattan? Schedule With JAM Service Company
JAM Service Company is proud to boast a team of licensed plumbers in Manhattan. No matter your plumbing issue, we have the experience and expertise to handle it with professionalism and efficiency. When you’re dealing with any plumbing needs, including emergency repair, routine maintenance, or a large-scale commercial plumbing installation, our licensed plumbers ensure that all work is performed up to code and in compliance with New York City’s regulations.
At JAM Service Company, we prioritize safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction when working with local commercial properties. With our licensed team of commercial plumbing experts, you can trust that your business is in good hands and that the plumbing work will be done right the first time.
Contact us today to schedule commercial plumbing services with a licensed commercial plumber in Manhattan, New York.
