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Hiring a plumber
What Is a Master Plumber in Michigan?
Michigan licenses plumbers at several levels. Knowing the difference, and how to check a license yourself, takes a few minutes and protects your home.
- License levels
- How to verify
- Permits
- Homeowner rules
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License levels
Michigan Plumbing License Types
Issued by the Bureau of Construction Codes in Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Apprentice
Registered to learn the trade while working under licensed plumbers.
Journey plumber
Licensed to do plumbing work, having completed the required experience and passed the exam.
Master plumber
The highest individual license, requiring more experience and a further exam. Masters can plan and supervise plumbing work.
Plumbing contractor
The business license a company needs to contract for plumbing work. A contractor must have a licensed master plumber.
Check before you hire
How to Look Up a Plumber’s License
- Ask the plumber or company for their Michigan license number and the name it is under.
- Open LARA’s online licensing portal and search by name or license number.
- Check the license type, that it is active and that the name matches the business you are hiring.
- Make sure a permit is pulled for work that needs one; permits are tied to a licensed contractor.
Michigan plumbing license #A111705
Doing it yourself
Can a Homeowner Do Their Own Plumbing?
Michigan law (MCL 339.6107) allows a homeowner to do plumbing, building sewer or private sewer work in a single-family home they own and live in, as long as they get a permit. The work is inspected like any other.
Everything else, including rentals, other people’s homes and commercial buildings, needs a licensed plumbing contractor. Gas piping, sewer connections and water heater venting are where mistakes are most costly, and where many homeowners choose to hire out.
FAQ
Plumbing License Questions
What is the difference between a journey plumber and a master plumber?
Both are licensed. A master plumber has more required experience and passed an additional exam, and can plan and supervise plumbing work. A plumbing contracting business must have a licensed master plumber.
Does a plumbing company need a contractor license?
Yes. In Michigan, a business that contracts for plumbing work needs a plumbing contractor license, which requires a licensed master plumber.
Where do I check a plumber’s license?
On LARA’s online licensing portal (Accela), where you can search by name or license number. LARA’s Bureau of Construction Codes Licensing Section can help with questions.
Do I need a permit for a water heater?
In most Michigan communities, yes. Water heater replacement involves water connections, a relief valve and, for gas models, gas piping and venting, all of which are inspected.
What should I ask before hiring a plumber?
Their license number and the name it is under, whether they will pull the permit, what the price includes, and what happens if the job turns out bigger than expected.
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Call (734) 228-7852, day or night, or send a request. Tell us what is going on and we will tell you how we can help.
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- Financing: 25 months same as cash, on approved credit
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- Call(734) 228-7852
- Service areaAnn Arbor & Washtenaw County
- LicensingMichigan plumbing license #A111705
Request a Plumber
Tell us what is going on. We call you back to talk it through and set up a visit. For water running right now, call (734) 228-7852.
No obligation. By sending, you agree we may call, text or e-mail you about this request. Calls may be recorded. Privacy Policy