Plumbing notes · any time

Questions to put to any plumber before hiring

Plumbing is a regulated trade in Ontario. Knowing what to ask lets you hire with confidence.

Man in gray jacket holding a white light — From the almanac guide on hiring a licensed plumber in ontario.

Licensing

Plumbing is a compulsory trade in Ontario, and a licensed plumber holds a certificate of qualification. Gas appliance work requires separate gas technician certification. Asking to see credentials is entirely reasonable.

Questions to ask

Will you pull permits where required?
How is the work billed?
What happens if something goes wrong?
Who will actually do the work?

Comparing quotes

Compare scope, materials and permits, not just the total.

One more thing

Ontario’s skilled trades are overseen by Skilled Trades Ontario, which maintains a public register of certified tradespeople. If a plumber gives you their certificate details, you can check them there.

Ask about insurance too. A plumbing business should carry liability insurance and, where it has employees, workplace safety coverage. These protect you if something goes wrong on your property.

Finally, be wary of anyone who asks for large cash deposits up front, will not provide anything in writing, or leans on you for a same-minute decision. Trustworthy tradespeople are happy to explain their work and give you time to consider it.

It is also fair to ask how the plumber handles surprises. Old houses hide things, and a good tradesperson will stop, explain what turned up and agree the next step with you before carrying on. That conversation, more than any certificate on the wall, is usually the best sign you have hired well. If one quote sits far below the others, ask what it leaves out.