Latest News

Get set for big changes to plumber contracting in July

June 18, 2021

Contractors, does your work include plumbing? Whether it’s in every project or just an occasional job?

If the answer is yes, be prepared for major changes starting July 1.

The state legislature passed a law, requiring all plumbing work to be done by a new category of contractors called licensed plumbing contractors.

That work includes hiring certified plumbers, and offering, advertising and bidding for plumbing jobs– All work general contractors and specialty plumbing contractors do now.

This new license is among numerous changes to plumbing laws passed by the 2020 Legislature.  Plumbing and related industries proposed the changes to improve public health and safety, expand plumber training opportunities and meet the rising demand for certified plumbers.

The Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) adopted final rules for plumbing contractor licensing on June 10, 2021.

Transition period for new license

Although the rules go into effect on July 1, L&I provided a transition period to allow applications for the new plumbing contractor license to be submitted and processed. Existing registered contractors will be considered in compliance with the new license requirements if they submit their application to L&I by Sept. 1.

However, L&I urges those who want the plumbing contractor license to apply as soon as possible. While waiting to receive their new license, applicants should maintain their existing registration to remain in good standing with permitting and compliance authorities.

Key changes for contractors starting July 1

  • L&I will stop registering construction contractors in the specialty plumbing
  • Current specialty plumbing construction contractors must apply for the new plumbing contractor license to continue doing plumbing work.
  • General construction contractors must subcontract plumbing work to a licensed plumbing contractor.
  • Only licensed plumbing contractors can hire certified plumbers.
  • All plumbing work on site must be done by certified plumbers or properly supervised trainees; both must be employed by a licensed plumbing contractor.
  • Contractors can obtain both a plumbing contractor license and general contractor registration. This will allow them to do plumbing and non-plumbing construction.
  • Licensed plumbing contractors must complete an L&I form naming a full-time, certified plumber as their “Designated Plumber.”

Apply for new plumbing contractor license now

You can download the application at www.Lni.wa.gov/NewPlumbingRequirements.

  • License requirements include a business license, general liability insurance, and a $6,000 bond or assigned savings account.
  • Fee for the two-year license is $139.10. The fee to file the “Designated Plumber” with L&I is $50.
  • First-time applicants must submit the notarized applications and documents by mail.

For more information about the new plumbing requirements, go to www.Lni.wa.gov/NewPlumbingRequirements.

For information on the plumbing final rules, go to  https://www.lni.wa.gov/rulemaking-activity/?query=296-400A.

For questions, contact the L&I Plumbing Certification Program at plumbers@Lni.wa.gov or call 360-902-5207.

Return to blog