Checking a license
In California, contractors are licensed by the Contractors State License Board. Plumbing contractors typically hold a C-36 plumbing classification. Before anyone starts work, ask for the license number and look it up at cslb.ca.gov. The lookup shows whether the license is active, the business name it belongs to, and its classifications.
Make sure the name on the estimate and the name on the license match. If the person at your door works for a company, the company's license is the one that matters.
How to look up a plumber
- Get the number in writing.Ask for the CSLB license number on the estimate or business card.
- Search cslb.ca.gov.Use the license lookup on the board's website.
- Check status and classification.Confirm the license is active and includes plumbing work.
- Match the names.The business name should match the one on your estimate and contract.
- Review the record.Look at the bond and insurance information shown on the license detail.
Work that may involve a permit
| Type of work | Ask about a permit? |
|---|---|
| Whole-house or partial repipe | Yes, ask the city |
| Rerouting a supply line through walls or attic | Yes, ask the city |
| Replacing the service line from the meter | Yes, ask the city |
| Water heater replacement | Yes, ask the city; seismic strapping is required |
| Small spot repair of a single fitting | Ask the plumber and the city |
| Replacing a toilet flapper or fill valve | Typically routine maintenance |
Before you sign
- License number verified and active at cslb.ca.gov.
- Written estimate with the scope of work and method.
- Clear statement of who handles permits and inspections.
- Who will do the work: employees or subcontractors.
- What restoration, patching and cleanup is included.
- Payment terms written out before work starts.
Questions to ask any plumber
- What is your CSLB license number and classification?
- Will this job need a permit, and will you obtain it?
- Will the work be inspected before it is covered?
- Is the person doing the work your employee?
- Will you pressure test the system after the repair?
Common questions
Does every leak repair need a permit?
No. Small repairs are often routine, while repipes, reroutes and line replacements more commonly need one. Check with the city for your specific job.
What if a contractor offers to skip the permit?
Work done without a required permit can create problems with inspections, insurance and selling the home later. Ask the city what is required.
Can a handyman fix a hidden leak?
Check what the law allows for the size and type of job. For under-slab, in-wall and line replacement work, a licensed plumbing contractor is the usual choice.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.