In an attempt to save money, some Derry-area residents have employed handymen for plumbing repair, installation, and maintenance services. But what’s the difference between a handyman and a licensed plumber? Is it really necessary to hire a licensed plumber to repair a leaky faucet or install new fixtures in your bathroom remodel? Read on for a comparison of the pros and cons of hiring a handyman versus a licensed plumber.
What is a Handyman?
A handyman (or woman) is a jack-of-all-trades who can handle lots of smaller jobs around the home. In New Hampshire, a handyman is not required to have a license. A handyman generally has a wide variety of experience performing different services but does not have any specific technical training or degree(s).
Why Hire a Handyman?
A handyman is a great choice for small projects. If you need a window screen replaced, some interior painting is done, or the knobs nailed down on your kitchen drawers, you can save a lot of money by employing a handyman. Keep in mind that every handyman is not the same, and because there is no licensing process in New Hampshire, there can be a huge amount of variability in quality or service provided by one handyman compared to another.
What is a Journeyman, Master, or Licensed Plumber?
In contrast to a handyman, a journeyman or master plumber is a licensed professional in his or her line of work. They have gone through an apprenticeship, passed qualification exams, and meet all of the criteria to prove competency in their trade.
The plumbing profession is multi-faceted and complex. It requires extensive knowledge of physics and chemistry; plumbers must understand the properties and behaviors of gases, liquids, and pressure under different environmental conditions, and how a single change in a plumbing system can cause a variety of problems.
Why Hire a Licensed Plumber?
A licensed and trained plumber will not only have the proper education, but they will also be up to date on all local regulations and laws that ensure safety compliance. A licensed plumber who has a wide breadth of knowledge in the industry will leave your property safe and up to code. Experienced and licensed plumbers will be able to diagnose problems and make complex plumbing repairs in older homes that have been serviced by different—and not always competent—individuals.
In addition, a licensed plumber will be registered with the New Hampshire Licensing Department. Licensed master plumbers and licensed journeymen employed by Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling are also fully insured, unlike most handymen, who are unlikely to carry any general liability or workers compensation insurance because of the high cost.
The risks of employing unlicensed and uninsured handyman are great. Using a handyman’s services for a complex plumbing job can leave you and your family exposed to inadequate workmanship, health
concerns, and potential danger. It is important to do your research to protect yourself and always hire a licensed specialist when the job calls for it. When you do choose the right professional, their reputation is at stake if they are not following all safety standards and procedures.
While it might be tempting to hire a local handyman, only a licensed plumber—like the journeymen and master plumbers at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling—are trained, experienced, and insured.
About Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
Founded over 40 years ago, Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is owned and operated by the Daigle family. We are proud to provide quality, dependable plumbing, heating, and cooling services for our customers in Derry, NH, and the surrounding areas. Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your partner for all your plumbing, heating, and cooling needs. Call us today at 603-434-6353 for a free estimate.
