How To Start a Plumbing Business

Starting a plumbing business may be the next step if you feel stuck working for someone else and are ready to take control of your career. 

The U.S. plumbing industry is experiencing significant growth, with industry revenues projected to reach $169.8 billion by 2025, at a yearly growth rate of 3.2%. That’s a lot of potential business, and it could be a big opportunity for you.

This guide will walk you through every step, from obtaining the necessary licenses and selecting the right tools to establishing your pricing strategy and effectively marketing your services. 

Is Starting a Plumbing Business Right for You?

Starting a plumbing business isn’t for everyone. But if you’re a licensed plumber with a few years of experience, it might be the perfect next step.

Who This Path Is Best For:

• Plumbers who feel burned out from working for someone else and want more control over their schedule and income.
• Techs who are tired of taking orders and are ready to take the lead on their own projects.
• Plumbers who see gaps in the local market that they could fill with their expertise.

Signs You’re Ready:

• You’re skilled at your trade and can handle most plumbing jobs without supervision.
• You’re motivated to make more money than you’re currently earning as an employee.
• You have a natural tendency to lead or organize projects, even when you’re not the boss.

Common Fears and Blockers:

• Paperwork and legalities: Starting a business involves more admin work than you might expect, but we’ll break down every step in this guide.
• Financial risk: You don’t need a ton of cash to start, but you do need to know what to expect. We’ll cover cost breakdowns and budget tips.
• Fear of failure: If you can handle the pressure of fixing a major plumbing issue, you can handle running a business. This guide will walk you through it.

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Plumbing Startup Quick Guide

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Plumbing Company?

Starting a plumbing company isn’t cheap, but it’s also not out of reach. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend:

1. Licensing and Certification Fees:

• Depending on your location, state licensing fees can range from $100 to $400+.
• Specialized certifications, like backflow testing or gas line installation, may cost an additional $100 to $300.

2. Tools and Equipment:

• Basic plumbing tools (pipe wrenches, augers, pipe cutters) can cost $1,000 to $2,000+.
• Advanced tools like video inspection cameras or leak detectors can run $500 to $1,500+ each.

3. Business Registration and Insurance:

• Registering a business name and getting an EIN can cost around $200.
• General liability insurance for plumbers typically costs $400 to $600+ annually.
• Workers’ comp insurance (if hiring) can add another $500 to $1,000+ annually.

4. Vehicle Costs:

• Purchasing a used van or truck might cost $5,000 to $10,000+.
• Branding (decals, wraps) can cost $1,000 to $3,000+.

5. Marketing and Branding:

• Building a basic website can cost $500 to $1,000+.
• Logo design and branded uniforms can add another $300 to $800+.

6. Software:

• Invoicing and scheduling software costs $30 to $100/month.
• CRM systems or field service management tools can add another $50 to $100/month.

Total Startup Costs: Expect to spend between $5,000 to $25,000+, depending on how many tools you already own and whether you’re starting solo or with a team.

Budgeting Tips for New Owners:

• Start small: Focus on essential tools and a single vehicle to keep costs down.
• Rent or lease: Consider renting high-cost equipment, such as inspection cameras, until you have steady cash flow.
• DIY marketing: Design your own logo and website using budget-friendly tools like Canva or Wix. Note that these platforms now also include built-in AI features. Just type in a few details, and the AI can generate a logo or website design for you in minutes.

Keeping Costs Low When Starting Solo:

• Use your personal vehicle and brand it with magnetic signs instead of a full wrap.
• Stick to the basics: only buy the tools you absolutely need for the types of jobs you plan to do initially.
• Offer basic services (like drain cleaning and leak repairs) that don’t require heavy equipment.

Step-by-Step: How to Start a Plumbing Business

In this section, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to launch your plumbing company the right way. Whether you’re starting solo or planning to hire a team, each step is designed to set you up for success.

1. Get Proper Licensing and Certifications

Before you can legally take on plumbing jobs, you need to secure the right licenses and certifications. Here’s what you need to know:

a. State-Level Plumbing Licenses

Most states require plumbers to hold a license to operate legally. However, the specific license required varies by state and typically falls into three main categories:

i. Journeyman License: Allows you to perform plumbing work under the supervision of a Master Plumber or Contractor.

ii. Master Plumber License: Permits you to take on more complex projects and supervise other plumbers.

iii. Contractor’s License: Required to start your own plumbing business, bid on projects, and hire employees.

What It Involves:

• Proof of work experience (e.g., 2-5 years as a Journeyman).
• Completion of a state-approved trade exam that covers plumbing codes, safety protocols, and local regulations.
• Submission of a background check and proof of insurance.

Cost:

Licensing fees vary by state and license type. Here are some examples:

• California: $300 – $450 (Contractor’s License) (California CSLB)
• Texas: $175 – $300 (Master Plumber License) (Texas TSBPE)
• Florida: $250 – $500 (Certified Contractor License) (Florida DBPR)
• Illinois: $100 – $150 (Plumbing Contractor License) (Illinois IDPH)
• New York City: $200 – $300 (Master Plumber License) (NYC DOB)
  

b. Specialized Certifications

Depending on the services you plan to offer, additional certifications may be required:

i. Backflow Prevention Certification:

• Required to install, repair, and test backflow prevention devices.
• Must complete a state-approved training course and pass an exam.
• Cost: $150 – $300+, depending on the provider and state.
• Valid for 2-3 years, after which recertification is typically required.

ii. Gas Line Certification:

• Required to install or repair gas lines in states like California, Texas, and Florida.
• Must complete specialized training and pass a separate exam.
• Cost: $150 – $400, depending on the course and state.

iii. EPA Lead-Safe Certification:

• Required for work involving lead-based pipes or paint, especially in older buildings.
• Cost: $100 – $200, including training and exam fees.
• Visit the EPA Lead-Safe Certification Program for more information.
  

c. Business License and Local Permits

In addition to plumbing licenses, you’ll need a business license to legally operate under a business name.

Business License:

• Register your business name with the state to operate as a plumbing contractor.
• Cost: $50 – $200+, depending on the state.
• Visit the Small Business Administration (SBA) for state-specific registration guidelines.

Specialty Permits:

• If your work includes gas line repairs, backflow prevention, or water heater installations, you may need additional permits.
• Costs and requirements vary by state and municipality.
  

d. Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN is a federal tax ID number issued by the IRS. It’s required for:

• Opening a business bank account
• Hiring employees or subcontractors
• Filing federal tax returns
  

How to Apply:

• Apply online for free through the IRS website.
• Processing is immediate, and you can download your EIN confirmation letter right after completing the application.

2. Create a Business Plan

A business plan is the roadmap that guides your plumbing business from startup to profitability. It outlines your goals, target market, pricing strategy, and financial projections. 

Here’s how to create a comprehensive business plan:

a. Executive Summary

• Briefly summarize what your business does, who it serves, and what sets it apart.
• Example: “LeakFix Plumbing is a residential and commercial plumbing service specializing in emergency repairs, routine maintenance, and water heater installations in Austin, TX.”
  

b. Company Description

• Define your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation).
• Outline your mission statement and the core services you’ll provide.

Example: “Our mission is to provide fast, reliable plumbing services to residential and  commercial clients, ensuring quality workmanship and exceptional customer service.”

c. Market Analysis

To ensure the success of your plumbing business, you’ll need to understand who your target customers are and which services are in high demand.

Residential vs. Commercial Clients:

• Residential Clients: Homeowners typically need routine maintenance, emergency repairs (e.g., burst pipes), and water heater installations.
• Commercial Clients: Businesses may require regular servicing for large plumbing systems, such as in office buildings or warehouses.
  

Researching Your Target Market:

• Talk to Industry Insiders: Try connecting with retired plumbers, supply store staff, or contractors who work alongside plumbers. They can offer valuable insight into which plumbing services are in high demand and which customer segments are being overlooked.
• Survey Potential Clients: Reach out to homeowners, property managers, and contractors. Ask about their plumbing needs, preferred services, and past experiences with plumbers.

d. Services Offered

List the specific plumbing services you will provide, such as:

• Emergency repairs (burst pipes, clogged drains)
• Water heater installations and repairs
• Routine maintenance and inspections
• Backflow prevention and testing
• Gas line installations and repairs
  

e. Marketing Plan

• Local SEO: Create a Google Business Profile to increase your visibility in local search results.
• Referral Programs: Offer incentives for client referrals (e.g., $50 off the next service for each successful referral).
• Networking: Connect with local contractors, property managers, and realtors to build a referral network.
• Online Marketing: Share helpful plumbing tips and before-and-after job photos on social media to attract followers and potential clients.

f. Pricing Strategy

• Determine how you will charge for services (hourly rates vs. flat rates).
• Include a breakdown of how you calculate service prices based on labor, materials, overhead, and profit margin.
• Example: “For a standard water heater installation, we charge a $650 flat rate, which includes labor, materials, and a 20% profit margin.”
  

g. Financial Projections

• Estimate your startup costs, monthly expenses, and projected revenue.
• Break down costs into categories such as licensing fees, tools and equipment, marketing, and insurance.

Example Projection:

• Startup Costs: $7,500
• Monthly Expenses: $3,800
• Monthly Revenue (Based on 15 jobs/month at $500/job): $7,500
  
• Estimated Monthly Profit: $7,500 – $3,800 = $3,700
  

h. Funding Plan

• Identify your funding sources (e.g., personal savings, small business loans, equipment financing).
• Include a contingency plan in case initial sales are lower than expected.
  

i. Exit Strategy

• Plan for the future: Will you expand to multiple locations, sell the business, or pass it down to a family member?
• Outline your strategy for scaling, selling, or closing the business.

Pro Tip

Continuously refine your business plan as you gain more market insights. Customer feedback, competitor analysis, and emerging plumbing trends can all provide valuable data for future adjustments.

3. Fund Your Plumbing Business

You don’t need a massive budget to start a plumbing business, but you will need some cash to cover essential expenses, like tools, licensing, and marketing. Here’s how to secure funding:

a. Personal Savings

Using your own savings is the simplest way to fund your plumbing business. You won’t owe anyone money or pay interest, but you are taking on all the risk.

b. Business Loans

• Consider applying for a small business loan through a bank or credit union.
• The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers loans specifically for startups, including equipment financing and microloans.
• Be prepared with a solid business plan and financial projections to improve your chances of approval.
  

c. Equipment Financing

• If your biggest expense is tools or a vehicle, look into equipment financing.
• The equipment itself serves as collateral, making it easier to qualify for these loans.
  

d. Business Credit Cards

• Good for covering smaller expenses, like marketing materials or website setup.
• Watch for interest rates as they can add up quickly if you don’t pay off the balance each month.
  

e. Family and Friends

• Borrowing from family and friends can be a quick way to get cash, but it’s risky.
• To avoid misunderstandings, put the loan terms in writing and clearly outline repayment expectations.
  

Pro Tip

Before taking on debt, calculate exactly how much you need. Create a simple budget that includes must-have expenses like licensing fees, insurance, tools, and marketing. This will prevent you from borrowing more than you can realistically repay.

4. Choose the Right Business Structure

The business structure you choose for your plumbing business impacts everything from taxes and legal liability to paperwork and daily operations. Here’s a breakdown of the three most common structures:

a. Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest and cheapest business structure. But there’s a big drawback: you’re personally liable for any business debts or lawsuits. This means if someone sues your plumbing business, your personal assets (like your home or car) could be at risk. 

b. LLC (Limited Liability Company)

An LLC separates your assets from your business assets, offering liability protection. If your plumbing company gets sued, only the assets owned by the LLC are at risk, not your savings or property. 

However, forming an LLC involves filing formation documents and paying state fees, which can range from $50 to $500+. 

c. S Corporation (S Corp)

An S Corp allows you to pay yourself a salary and receive additional income as dividends, which may reduce your tax burden. It’s more complex to set up and maintain, but it can be beneficial if your plumbing business is generating steady revenue. 

You’ll need to file additional paperwork with the IRS and comply with strict reporting requirements. Check the IRS S Corporation page for detailed guidelines.

When to Consult a Lawyer or Accountant

• If you’re unsure which structure is best for your situation, a business lawyer can walk you through the pros and cons.
• An accountant can help you understand the tax implications of each structure and set up proper bookkeeping systems.

Choosing the right structure is a big decision that will affect your plumbing business for years to come. Take the time to consider the pros and cons, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

5. Register Your Plumbing Company

Registering your plumbing business is a crucial step to operating legally and protecting your brand. Here’s how to do it:

a. Name Your Business

Your business name should convey what you do while being easy to remember and spell. Here are some tips:

Keep it Simple: Avoid long or complicated words. “PipeKings Plumbing” is easier to remember than “Waterworks Restoration Solutions.”

Include Keywords: Consider including words like “Plumbing,” “Drain,” or “Leak” to clarify your services. Example: TrueFlow Plumbing or AquaFix Leak Repair.

Think Long-Term: Choose a name that will still make sense if you expand to other services.

Check Availability:

• Search for available domain names on platforms like Namecheap.
• Verify that your chosen name isn’t already in use by checking the USPTO Trademark Search.
• Check with your state’s business registry to confirm the name isn’t taken.

b. Register with the State

• File a Doing Business As (DBA) if you’re operating under a name different from your own.
• Register your LLC, S Corp, or sole proprietorship with the state. Filing fees vary by state but typically range from $50 to $300+.
• Some states also require you to publish a notice of your business registration in a local newspaper.
  

c. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

• Even if you’re a solo plumber, you’ll likely need an EIN to open a business bank account, hire employees, or file taxes.
• Applying for an EIN is free and can be done in minutes on the IRS website.
• Keep a copy of your EIN confirmation letter for future tax filings and bank account set-up.

6. Get Insured and Bonded

Insurance and bonding protect your plumbing business from financial risks and build trust with clients. Here’s what you need to know:

a. Types of Insurance

General Liability Insurance:

• Covers property damage, bodily injury, and legal fees if a client sues you.
• Example: A customer claims you damaged their property while installing a water heater. General liability insurance would cover the cost of repairs and legal expenses.
• Average cost: $400 to $600 annually, depending on coverage limits and business size.
  

Workers’ Compensation Insurance:

• Required if you hire employees. Covers medical bills and lost wages if a worker gets injured on the job.
• Example: An employee slips while fixing a pipe and needs medical treatment. Workers’ comp pays for their medical bills and lost income.
• Average cost: $500 to $1,000+ annually, depending on the number of employees and type of work.
  

Tools and Equipment Insurance:

• Protects your tools and equipment from theft, damage, or loss.
• Example: Someone breaks into your work van and steals your plumbing tools. Equipment insurance would cover the cost of replacing them.
• Average cost: $300 to $500+ annually, depending on the value of your tools and equipment.

b. Why Bonding Matters for Credibility

• A surety bond guarantees that you will complete a job as agreed. If you fail to meet contract terms, the bond compensates the client.
• Clients often require bonding for higher-value jobs or government contracts.
• Typical cost: 1% to 3% of the bond amount (e.g., a $10,000 bond might cost $100 to $300 annually).
  

c. How to Get Insured and Bonded

• Shop around and compare quotes from reputable insurers like Hiscox, Next Insurance, and The Hartford.
• Contact a bonding company to apply for a surety bond. They will assess your business finances to determine the bond rate.
  

Pro Tips

Bundle your insurance policies to save money. For example, some insurers offer package deals that include general liability, workers’ comp, and tools/equipment coverage at a reduced rate.

7. Buy or Lease the Right Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools makes your plumbing business more efficient and professional. Here’s how to equip your business without overspending:

a. Must-Have Tools for Service Plumbers

To start your plumbing business, you’ll need the basics. These essential plumbing tools will cover most common jobs:

• Pipe Wrenches (10-inch and 14-inch): Essential for loosening and tightening pipes.
• Pipe Cutters: For cutting copper, PVC, and PEX pipes accurately.
• Plumber’s Torch: For soldering copper pipes.
• Basin Wrench: To reach nuts in tight spaces, like under sinks.
• Drain Auger (Plumber’s Snake): Clears clogs in toilets and drains.
• Plumbing Camera (if affordable): Helps inspect clogs and leaks in hard-to-reach areas.
• Hand Tools: Screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure, and pipe tape.
• Safety Gear: Gloves, safety goggles, and knee pads.
  

b. Optional Tools as Your Business Grows

Once your business picks up, consider investing in specialized equipment to handle a wider range of jobs:

• Hydro Jetting Machine: Efficient for clearing severe blockages in drains and sewers.
• Leak Detection Equipment: Identifies hidden leaks without tearing down walls.
• ProPress Tool: For faster and more secure pipe fittings.
• Water Heater Tester: Diagnoses issues with residential and commercial water heaters.
• PEX Crimp Tools: Used for installing PEX piping, popular in residential projects.
  

c. Vehicle Considerations

 Your vehicle is your mobile office and toolbox, so choose wisely.

Van vs. Truck:

• Van: Offers more enclosed storage space, keeping tools secure and out of the weather. Great for organizing equipment with shelving.
• Truck: More rugged and better for rough terrain, but tools are more exposed unless you invest in a secure toolbox.
  

Branding Your Vehicle:

• Use vinyl wraps or decals with your business name, logo, and contact info.
• This not only looks professional but also turns your vehicle into a moving advertisement.
• Expect to spend $1,000 to $3,000+ on a full wrap, or around $100 to $300+ for basic decals.
  

Tool Organization:

• Install shelves and bins to keep tools accessible.
• Label storage areas for quick access to wrenches, fittings, and safety gear.
  

d. Buy vs. Lease

• Buying Tools: Ideal for essential, frequently used items. You’ll own them outright and avoid recurring costs.
• Leasing Tools: Useful for expensive, specialized equipment that you don’t use daily (like a hydro jetter). Lease payments can be written off as a business expense.
• Vehicle Leasing: A good option if you want a newer model without the high upfront cost. Check for lease agreements that include maintenance.

Pro Tip

Start small and build your toolkit as your business grows. You don’t need every specialized tool right away. Prioritize the essentials and invest in advanced equipment once you start landing bigger jobs.

8. Set Up a Business Bank Account and Accounting System

Keeping your personal and business finances separate isn’t just good practice — it’s essential for legal and financial reasons. Here’s how to get it right:

a. Why Separating Personal and Business Finances Is Non-Negotiable

• Legal Protection: If your business gets sued, having separate accounts helps prove that your business is a separate entity, protecting your personal assets.
• Tax Reporting: Accurate bookkeeping makes it easier to track deductible expenses and file taxes correctly.
• Professionalism: Clients and vendors take you more seriously when payments come from a dedicated business account, not your personal bank account.
  

b. How to Set Up a Business Bank Account

Choose a Business-Friendly Bank: Look for a bank that offers free or low-cost business checking accounts.

Required Documents: Have the following ready:

• Business registration documents
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Operating agreement (if you formed an LLC)

Deposit Initial Funds: Deposit enough to cover immediate expenses, like insurance payments, tool purchases, or marketing materials.

Order Business Checks and Debit Cards: Keep personal and business spending separate by using designated business payment methods.

c. Implementing an Accounting System

An effective accounting system helps you track income, expenses, and profitability. Here’s what to include:

• Income Tracking: Log all incoming payments, whether from clients, loans, or other sources.
• Expense Tracking: Record all business expenses, such as tool purchases, gas receipts, and advertising costs.
• Project-Based Tracking: If you handle multiple jobs at once, track income and expenses by project. This helps you identify profitable services and cost overruns.
• Monthly Reconciliation: At the end of each month, reconcile your bank statements to ensure your records match your actual account balances.
  

d. Tracking Receipts and Project Expenses

Organize Receipts: Use folders or digital storage to keep all receipts organized by category (e.g., tools, vehicle expenses, marketing).

Expense Categories: Set up expense categories to simplify tax filing and reporting, such as:

• Tools and Equipment
• Vehicle Expenses
• Marketing and Advertising
• Office Supplies
• Insurance and Bonding

Digital Tracking: Consider using spreadsheet templates or accounting software to log expenses in real time. This prevents missed deductions and makes tax time easier.

Pro Tip

Review your financial records weekly to stay on top of cash flow. It’s easier to spot errors or discrepancies early than to backtrack through months of transactions.

9. Price Your Services Profitably

Pricing your services correctly is crucial for maintaining profitability and staying competitive. Charge too little, and you’re working harder for less money. Charge too much, and you risk scaring off potential clients. 

Here’s how to price your services effectively:

a. Understanding Overhead Costs

Overhead costs include all expenses necessary to run your business that are not directly tied to specific jobs. These costs can include:

• Equipment and Tool Maintenance: Routine upkeep and replacements.
• Insurance and Bonding: Monthly premiums for liability, workers’ comp, and bonding.
• Vehicle Expenses: Gas, insurance, and maintenance for work vehicles.
• Administrative Costs: Software fees, office supplies, marketing expenses, and utilities.

Formula for Monthly Overhead:

 Monthly Overhead = Equipment Maintenance + Insurance + Vehicle Expenses + Admin Costs

Example Calculation:

• Equipment Maintenance: $300
• Insurance: $400
• Vehicle Expenses: $300
• Admin Costs: $200

Total Monthly Overhead: $1,200

b. Calculating the Service Price

Now that we’ve calculated overhead separately, let’s calculate the service price using the correct formula:

 Service Price = Labor Costs + Material Costs + Overhead Allocation + Profit Margin

Step 1: Calculate Job Costs

• Labor Costs: $300 (6 hours at $50/hour)
• Material Costs: $150 (pipes, fittings, etc.)

Job Costs: $300 + $150 = $450

Step 2: Allocate Overhead

Since we’re using the same overhead of $1,200/month, we need to allocate a portion of that overhead to each job.

• Let’s assume you handle 10 jobs per month.
• Overhead per job: $1,200 / 10 = $120
  

Step 3: Calculate the Service Price

Now we apply the profit margin. The ideal plumbing business profit margin is 15% to 25%. For this example, let’s choose a 20% profit margin.

Service Price Calculation:

• Total Costs = $450 (job costs) + $120 (overhead) = $570
• Desired Profit: $570 x 0.20 = $114
• Service Price: $570 + $114 = $684

Pro Tip

Regularly review your actual job costs against your estimates. If you’re consistently underestimating, it’s time to adjust your rates or refine your estimating process.

10. Start Marketing Your Plumbing Business

Once your plumbing business is up and running, it’s time to get the word out. Here are the top plumbing business marketing strategies to attract clients and build your reputation:

a. Local SEO

Google Business Profile:

• Create a free profile on Google Business.
• Add your business name, address, phone number, and operating hours.
• Include high-quality photos of your truck, tools, and completed projects.
• Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews — they boost your credibility and search ranking.
  

Yelp and Nextdoor:

• Claim your business profile on Yelp to reach people searching for local plumbers.
• Join Nextdoor to connect with homeowners in your area and respond to service requests.

b. Create a Professional Website and Manage Reviews

Website Basics:

• Your website is your digital storefront. Include a list of services, contact information, and a booking form.
• Add a blog section with plumbing tips or maintenance advice. This can improve your SEO and position you as an expert.
  

Reviews Matter:

• Encourage clients to leave positive reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook.
• Respond professionally to all reviews — even negative ones. A polite response can show potential clients that you’re committed to customer service.
  

c. Referral Programs and Strategic Partnerships

Referral Programs:

• Offer a discount or gift card for every client referral.
• Example: “Refer a neighbor and get $50 off your next service.”

Partnerships:

• Connect with property managers, realtors, and general contractors. They’re often the first to hear about plumbing problems.
• Offer to be their go-to plumber in exchange for regular referrals.
  

d. Truck Branding and Uniform Visibility

Vehicle Branding:

• Use vinyl wraps or magnetic signs to turn your work truck into a moving billboard.
• Include your business name, phone number, website, and a catchy tagline (e.g., “Fast, Reliable Plumbing — Call Now!”).
  

Uniforms:

Wear branded uniforms to every job. It creates a consistent, professional appearance and reinforces your brand identity.

e. Social Media

• Facebook: Best for reaching local homeowners and sharing updates or promotions.
• Instagram: Post before-and-after photos of completed jobs to showcase your work.
• YouTube: Create simple DIY plumbing videos to position yourself as a trusted expert.
• LinkedIn: Connect with property managers, contractors, and other local businesses for potential partnerships.
  

Pro Tip

Start with one or two marketing channels and master them before expanding to others. Consistency matters more than being everywhere at once.

11. Build a Repeatable Workflow with Software

Running a plumbing business involves more than just fixing pipes. You’re also managing appointments, sending invoices, and tracking payments. 

Doing it all manually can get overwhelming fast. That’s where software comes in.

a. Why Even Solo Plumbers Benefit from Digital Tools

• Save Time: Instead of juggling paper invoices and handwritten schedules, software lets you handle everything from a single dashboard.
• Stay Organized: Track client info, job history, and outstanding payments without shuffling through stacks of paperwork.
• Look Professional: Sending polished invoices and appointment reminders by email creates a more professional impression than handwritten notes.
  

b. Essential Software Features for Plumbing Businesses

• Job Scheduling: Assign jobs, track ongoing projects, and notify clients of arrival times.
• Invoicing and Payments: Generate invoices on the spot and send them via email or SMS.
• Customer Management: Keep track of clients, their service history, and important notes (like payment preferences or recurring issues).
• Expense Tracking: Record material costs, mileage, and labor hours for each job to ensure accurate billing.
  

How Workyard Helps Plumbing Businesses

Workyard is specifically built for service-based businesses, making it a strong choice for plumbing companies looking to simplify operations and get paid faster. 

Here’s how Workyard’s plumbing software can streamline your business:

Accurate Time Tracking:

Track work hours with GPS-verified time cards. This ensures you’re accurately billing for every minute spent on a job without the hassle of collecting and analyzing manual timesheets. 

Try it free for 14 days Book a demo

Job Costing Made Easy:

• Workyard lets you track labor costs for each job in real-time, so you can see exactly how much time and money you’re spending.
• Identify profitable jobs and spot areas where you’re losing money, helping you adjust pricing or processes as needed.

Effortless Job Scheduling:

• Schedule jobs and assign workers based on availability and skillset.
• View all job assignments in one dashboard to avoid double-booking or scheduling conflicts.
  

See how Workyard’s plumbing software can optimize your operations or try it for free for 14 days.

Going Beyond Solo: When and How to Hire Your First Employee

Hiring your first employee is a big step, but it can also be a game-changer for your plumbing business. Here’s how to know when you’re ready and how to do it right:

1. Signs You’re Ready to Grow

• You’re Turning Down Work: If you’re consistently booked solid and turning down jobs, it might be time to bring on extra hands.
• You’re Exhausted and Overworked: Long hours and burnout can lead to mistakes, poor customer service, and missed opportunities.
• You’re Missing Appointments or Deadlines: If you’re struggling to keep up with client demands, a new hire can help you manage the workload.
• You Want to Offer New Services: Bringing in a tech with specialized skills (e.g., gas line repairs or backflow testing) can help you expand your service offerings.
  

2. Where to Find Good Techs

• Local Trade Schools: Connect with plumbing trade schools in your area. Graduates are often looking for hands-on experience and can be great entry-level hires.
• Job Boards: Post job listings on platforms like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, or specialized trade job boards.
• Industry Associations: Network through local plumbing associations or join Facebook groups where techs hang out.
• Employee Referrals: Ask other contractors or your network if they know a skilled plumber looking for work.

3. Culture Matters: Train Your Hires to Deliver the Same Quality

• Standardize Procedures: Create checklists for common services (e.g., drain cleaning, water heater repair) to ensure consistency.
• Shadowing and On-the-Job Training: Have new hires shadow you for a few weeks to learn your workflow and customer service standards.
• Communication Protocols: Train your team on how to communicate with clients professionally, from phone calls to final walk-throughs.
• Set Clear Expectations: Explain your expectations for punctuality, safety practices, and customer interactions.

Common Mistakes First-Time Plumbing Business Owners Make

Starting a plumbing business can be rewarding, but many new owners stumble over the same pitfalls. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Underpricing or Overdelivering

Problem: Many new plumbing business owners set their rates too low, thinking it will attract more clients. But underpricing can quickly eat into your profits and make it harder to cover overhead costs.

Solution:

• Calculate your costs, including labor, materials, insurance, and vehicle expenses, and add a profit margin.
• Avoid the temptation to overdeliver on services just to impress clients. Consistently going above and beyond without charging for the extra time and materials will erode your profit margins.
• Review competitor pricing, but don’t base your rates solely on what others charge. Focus on the value you provide, not just the price.
  

2. Not Saving for Taxes

Problem: It’s easy to forget about taxes when you’re busy with jobs and invoices, but the IRS won’t forget about you.

Solution:

• Set aside a percentage of every payment for taxes (typically 20-30% of income, depending on your state and tax bracket).
• Open a separate savings account specifically for tax money to avoid spending it on other expenses.
• Use a basic accounting system to track income and expenses so you’re not scrambling for receipts come tax time.
  

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3. Doing Everything Manually

Problem: Manually scheduling jobs, tracking expenses, and sending invoices can quickly become overwhelming as your business grows. Mistakes and missed payments are more likely to happen when you’re relying on memory or handwritten notes.

Solution:

• Implement software for scheduling, invoicing, and expense tracking. This not only saves time but also creates a record of every transaction, making tax season easier.
• Automate repetitive tasks, like sending reminders or follow-up emails, so nothing falls through the cracks.
• Keep digital records of job quotes, invoices, and receipts to streamline bookkeeping.
  

4. Ignoring Online Presence

Problem: Potential clients can’t hire you if they can’t find you. Many new plumbing businesses neglect their online presence, missing out on local search traffic and customer reviews.

Solution:

• Set up a Google Business Profile to appear in local searches. Include your business hours, contact info, and photos of completed jobs.
• Create a simple website that lists your services, rates, and contact info. Include client testimonials to build trust.
• Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Positive reviews boost your credibility and help you rank higher in local searches.

Final Thoughts

Running a successful plumbing company isn’t just about getting the work done. It’s also about staying organized, tracking expenses, and managing jobs efficiently. 

That’s where plumbing software solutions like Workyard come in. Workyard simplifies scheduling, time tracking, and expense management, all from one easy-to-use platform.

Ready to streamline your operations and grow your plumbing business? 

Try Workyard free for 14 days