Why It’s Important to Use a Licensed Plumbing Company

August 18, 2025

Two Gary's technicians unloading tools from a service van in front of a house. One carries a machine, other looks inside.

When plumbing problems strike, the service provider you choose can make all the difference. Whether you’re facing a leaky pipe, a clogged drain, or a major plumbing emergency, the choice between a licensed and unlicensed plumber can impact not just the outcome of the repair, but your safety, home value, and peace of mind.


Below, we’ll break down five key benefits of hiring a licensed plumbing company—and five costly risks of going with an unlicensed option.

Benefits of Using a Licensed Plumbing Company

  1. Expertise and Experience
    Licensed plumbers complete extensive training and education to earn their credentials. This ensures they have the skills and technical know-how to handle a wide variety of plumbing challenges effectively and efficiently.

  2. Compliance with Local Codes and Regulations
    A licensed company works within
    local building codes, so your plumbing repairs and installations meet required standards. This helps you avoid fines, failed inspections, and costly rework.

  3. Insurance and Liability Protection
    Licensed plumbers carry insurance, protecting you financially if an accident or damage occurs during the job. This coverage provides valuable peace of mind in unexpected situations.

  4. Quality Workmanship
    Maintaining a license means maintaining a reputation. Licensed plumbers often back their work with warranties or guarantees, ensuring long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.

  5. Access to High-Quality Materials
    Established relationships with suppliers allow licensed plumbers to source durable, top-grade materials at better prices—resulting in longer-lasting repairs and fewer repeat problems.

Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed Plumbing Service

  1. Higher Risk of Poor Workmanship
    Without formal training or certification, unlicensed plumbers may perform work that is incomplete, unsafe, or prone to failure.

  2. Potential Legal Trouble
    Work performed without the proper licensing can violate local building codes, resulting in fines, penalties, or the need to redo the job entirely.

  3. No Insurance Protection
    If something goes wrong, you could be held responsible for damage to your property or injuries that occur on the job.

  4. Limited Recourse if Problems Arise
    When unlicensed work fails, you may have little legal or financial recourse to recover your losses.

  5. Use of Substandard Materials
    In an attempt to cut costs, unlicensed plumbers may use inferior parts that lead to recurring repairs and higher costs over time.

Gary’s Promise: Quality You Can Trust

Choosing a licensed plumbing company isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about protecting your home, your budget, and your peace of mind. Gary’s Promise means comfort, honesty, and respect for your home, with no extra charges for nights or weekends. Our team is licensed, insured, and ready 24/7 to deliver reliable solutions when you need them most.

Ready for Reliable Plumbing Help?

Don’t take chances with unlicensed work that could cost you more in the long run. Choose a licensed, insured team you can trust. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, clogged drain, or a middle-of-the-night emergency, we’re here 24/7 to keep your home safe and comfortable.

Request Service from Gary's

Need immediate service? Call Gary’s Plumbing & Heating today at (360) 255-0589 for fast, professional service in Bellingham and Whatcom County.

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