Almost every household will need to call on a plumber at some point, as they might be unsure how to repair a faulty toilet, install new pipes, or replace a broken water heater.
Due to demand, it can be a lucrative career avenue (see how much plumbers earn a year on average by state here), as you can guarantee there will always be someone in need of a helping hand within their home or business. If you are considering entering the sector, here are the six steps to becoming a plumber.
Step 1: Earn Your GED or High School Diploma
Every professional plumber will need to earn either their GED or high school diploma to legally work in the industry. It can provide you with a solid foundation in science, math, and computers. It might also be beneficial to your career to take classes in both drafting and blueprint reading, if available.
Step 2: Embark on Vocational Training
In addition to securing a high school diploma or GED, you also should join plumbing vocation classes, which are typically available at either a technical or community college or a trade school. During your time on the course, you will learn about water supply, drainage systems, and piping equipment.
Step 3: Complete an Apprenticeship Program
It is imperative to gain hands-on experience in the plumbing industry before joining a company or branching out on your own. To boost your skillset and confidence, you must complete an apprenticeship program that will provide comprehensive training on the trade. While most apprenticeships will commonly take between four to five years to complete, you can walk away from the program with an in-depth knowledge of the industry.
Step 4: Apply for a Plumbing License
Most US states will require you to obtain a plumber’s license. While your state will determine the licensing standards, it is likely you will need between two to five years of experience in the plumbing industry. You also might be required to pass an exam regarding the plumbing trade and local codes.
Step 5: Find the Best Insurance Deal
If you are planning to work as a self-employed plumber or are hoping to start your own plumbing business, you will need to invest in insurance coverage. While the construction insurance cost can put a small dent in your budget, the affordable sum could provide you with financial cover following an accident to a third party and professional damage.
Step 6: Find and Secure New Customers
While some plumbers might choose to enter a construction firm, which will allow them to receive regular work on small and large projects, others might choose to go it alone as a self-employed professional.
If you choose the latter, you will not only need to invest in your own plumbing supplies, but you will also need to find and secure new customers. So, encourage your loved ones to spread the word about your business, post flyers through people’s mailboxes and advertise your plumbing services and rates on social media and in local newspapers. There are many top plumbing tips for big families you can learn.
