There are times when you can fix your own plumbing issue, but sometimes you need outside help. When looking for outside assistance, do you need to hire a plumber or handyman? What’s the difference between the two? For starters, becoming a licensed plumber in Maryland is no easy feat. It takes years of studying and training to meet State regulations. Anyone can Google a Do-It-Yourself quick fix. However, only a certified plumber knows your systems and is certified to get the job done.
What is a Certified Plumber?
A professional plumber has rightfully earned their title through extensive training and formal education. In the State of Maryland, in order to qualify as a plumber, one must: have held a journey license for a period of two years, completed 3,750 hours of training under the direct supervision and control of a Master Plumber and finally, they must pass a comprehensive exam (MD Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation).
During training, all plumbers are made aware of safety precautions, laws and business specifications they are required to meet. Plumbing can often involve invasive procedures on your home. Plumbers are equipped with experience and knowledge on plumbing fixtures, pipes, sewers, water heaters and what makes up your plumbing system.
Qualified plumbers are certified, insured and bonded. Therefore, just in case something strange occurs throughout the process of the plumbing repairs, qualified and licensed plumbers can be held accountable.
What if I Use a Handyman?
Your neighbor may have been handy with patching up your roof, but you may want to think twice before calling them over for your pipes. A handyman, while knowledgeable about many things, is more of a jack-of-all-trades than a professional in any one category.
Handymen (and women) are not usually required to have a license for the services they provide. Common tasks and DIY projects are usually their expertise. Diving deeper into any home system may require a licensed professional.
Your neighbor may be handy with a gardening hose or helpful when it comes to cleaning your gutters. However, if they do not have the proper qualifications, you may both be getting into trouble!
Why Hire a Licensed Professional Plumber?
A licensed professional plumber has met state credentials and education requirements. The licensing process requires experience, ongoing training and examination. This helps you know a licensed contractor is truly able to complete the job. In addition, a licensed professional plumber, has taken and passed a state exam.
In addition, only after years of apprenticeship and experience under a Master plumber is a journeyman ready to take the exam. Even then, the Master Plumber must first approve them to move forward with the exam.
A licensed professional plumber also has legal permission to provide plumbing services. When using a handyman, you have no guarantee that they have the proper knowledge or experience to handle your pipes. Licensure usually requires a minimum general liability insurance for contractors working on plumbing. This helps to protect you, the customer, in case any damage occurs on your property.
Save yourself time and money by calling in the right kind of pros for a plumbing job. Our licensed and trained professionals know our way through your home’s water system and pipes. Protect yourself and your home. Contact Linthicum Plumbing for any and all of your plumbing needs.