Six Essential Steps to Becoming a Hugely Successful Plumbing Contractor

A career as a plumber is an excellent option for ensuring a stable future, income, and quality life. If you’re interested in excelling your career as an independent plumber, follow these 6 essential steps to become a successful plumbing contractor.

Receive an Education

The level of education necessary for future plumbers varies depending on each state’s requirements.

Generally, a high school diploma or GED is required. Courses taken during this stage, such as math and science, help build a strong foundation of knowledge for your plumbing career.

Advanced education, such as a 4-year college or technical school, is usually a personal decision rather than an obligation.

Valuable plumbing concepts and skills taught in advanced courses include:

• Building trades
• Pipes
• Systems
• Plumbing codes
• Important procedures
• Entrepreneurship
• Necessary tools and equipment

Any level of education you choose to pursue will prove valuable for your future as a plumbing contractor.

Gain Valuable Experience

Gaining hands-on experience is incredibly valuable for becoming a successful plumber.

Typically, plumbing experience is earned through an apprenticeship program.

Plumbing apprenticeships last around two to five years and allow prospective plumbers to directly work under a licensed professional that’ll teach you everything you need to know.

During your time as an apprentice, you’ll learn everything about the plumbing industry, such as installing and fixing pipes. Gradually, you’ll expand your professional skills and safety knowledge till you’re fully prepared to operate on your own.

Gain valuable experience for your future career by discovering a plumbing apprenticeship opportunity perfect for you. 

Earn a Plumber’s License

Once you’ve finished your apprenticeship program, you’re eligible to earn your plumber’s license.

A plumber’s license gives you the authority to perform numerous plumbing tasks without supervision.

To earn your plumbing license, you must gather the necessary documents, pay certain fees, and study and pass an exam.

After you complete your plumber’s license requirements, you’ll officially be called a licensed journeyman.

Working as a licensed journeyman grants you the opportunity to continue to advance your skills. You’ll become an expert at accomplishing plumbing tasks, dealing with customers, and solving problems.

Earn a plumber’s license to get to work earning experience, building a clientbase, and excelling your career.

Obtain a Contractor’s License

If you’re ready to take the next step in your plumbing career, obtaining a contractor’s license is the perfect solution.

A plumbing contractor is able to handle more complex plumbing issues and diversify their skill set by learning more about construction and service.

To earn a contractor’s license, you must meet certain requirements, pass multiple exams, and pursue continued education.

Meeting the necessary requirements involves earning valuable experiences and acquiring a journeyman’s license.

Passing important exams requires finding study materials, such as books or prep courses, to carefully prepare for and pass each exam.

Lastly, pursuing continued education means renewing your license regularly by taking the required course to remain fully certified.

If you’re interested in becoming a plumbing contractor, earn your Virginia contractor’s license today.

Get Insurance

Make sure your business is fully covered by acquiring the proper insurance and safeguards.

If you neglect protecting your business, you could find yourself in a pricey mess you can’t afford to resolve resulting in the end of your career.

Secure your business by taking the time to get general liability insurance, worker’s compensation, and a surety bond.

Protect you, your employees, and your business by guaranteeing you’re fully prepared.

Grow Your Business

Whether you’re working for an established company or starting your own business, it’s important to focus on growing your business.

Establish a growth mindset to constantly work towards a bigger and better business.

Learn about important business knowledge and the plumbing industry to completely understand your obligations.

Utilize marketing to grow awareness of your company. Create a website, learn about search engine optimization, and enhance your community outreach services to truly expand your business. If you’re interested in becoming a plumbing contractor, excel your career by following these 6 essential steps for starting your future successfully.