Plumbing 101 — What Every Canadian Homeowner Should Know
Understand common plumbing issues, when to DIY vs. call a pro, licensing requirements, and how to choose the right plumber for your job.
When to DIY vs. Call a Plumber
DIY-Friendly Tasks
- Replacing a faucet washer or cartridge
- Unclogging a drain with a plunger
- Replacing a showerhead
- Fixing a running toilet (flapper valve)
- Replacing aerators on faucets
- Using a drain snake on minor clogs
Call a Licensed Plumber
- Anything involving water supply lines
- Sewer line repairs or replacement
- Gas line work (legally requires a licence)
- Water heater installation
- Work behind walls or under slabs
- Backflow preventer installation or testing
- Bathroom or kitchen rough-in for renovations
Plumbing Licences in Canada
In every Canadian province and territory, plumbing work must be performed by a licensed journeyman plumber or a registered apprentice working under supervision. Hiring an unlicensed plumber can void your home insurance and create serious safety hazards.
British Columbia
Regulated by the BC Safety Authority. Plumbers must hold a TQ (Trades Qualification) certificate.
Alberta
Regulated by Alberta Municipal Affairs. Journeyman plumber certification required through AIT.
Ontario
Ontario College of Trades (now SkilledTradesOntario) oversees 306A Plumber certification. Voluntary but industry-standard.
Quebec
Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) requires a licence for all plumbing contractors.
Other Provinces
All provinces have similar requirements through their respective trades authorities. Red Seal endorsement is recognized across Canada.
Always ask your plumber for their licence number and proof of insurance before work begins.
Emergency Plumbing Tips
If you have a plumbing emergency right now:
- 1Smell gas? Leave the building immediately and call 911. Do not turn on lights or use electronics.
- 2Shut off the water main. Find your main shutoff valve (usually near where the water line enters your house, often in the basement). Turn it clockwise to close.
- 3Turn off the water heater. If you've shut off the main water supply, turn off your water heater to prevent damage.
- 4Open taps to drain. Open faucets to drain remaining water from the pipes and reduce pressure.
- 5Call an emergency plumber. Find one in our directory.
How to Choose the Right Plumber
Check credentials
Ask for their journeyman licence number and verify it with your provincial trades authority. Confirm they carry liability insurance.
Get multiple quotes
For non-emergency work, get 2-3 written quotes. Be wary of estimates that are significantly lower than others — it may indicate cut corners.
Read reviews
Check Google reviews and ask for references. Our directory shows Google ratings to help you compare plumbers in your area.
Get it in writing
Always get a written quote that includes scope of work, materials, labour costs, and warranty terms before work begins.