How to Become a Qualified Plumber in the UK

Every profession requires a learner to master the information and execute it flawlessly. While some are technical, others contain a more hands-on contribution. Plumbing belongs to the latter kind. Involving chemicals, estimations, and physical force, this profession is a lot harder than we would like to think. One needs to put effort and prove themselves to be a professional in this field. If you are looking to become a qualified plumber, we have built the perfect guide for your awareness and understanding. Please remember that the blog has been crafted keeping UK regulations in mind and the guidelines may vary based on the geographical location.

What does a qualified plumber do? 

Based on the word ‘Plumbum’ which translates to lead in Latin, Plumbing is a repair and renovation process. Plumbers are responsible for fixing and maintaining different forms of pipes carrying gas, water, or other fluids. From enclosed homes to expensive businesses, their expertise is required everywhere. Not only do they have a relevant kit of tools, but they are also familiar with different forms of chemicals which can help fix a plumbing disaster. Like any other profession, plumbing requires care, precision, and being able to apply just the right amount of pressure. Nothing more, nothing less. To be a qualified plumber, every state has their own set of standards individuals must pass. 

Plumber levels

Every occupation holds a beginner, intermediate, and professional phase. In plumber terms, these levels are called Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master Plumber. An apprentice.

Being an apprentice involves working under an experienced plumber. You will be required to prove your skills by handling rookie plumbing tasks. While doing the less risky tasks, you will also observe your seniors doing the more complicated ones. If your learning pace is commended, you shall move on to the next level. 

At the Journeyman level, supervision is no longer required, but you can not acquire a license. This phase involves little more cautious tasks like installation and other areas of the Journeyman’s specialization. By passing state exams, you can get yourself certified as a journeyman. 

For the Master plumber, a wide variety of responsibilities are on the plate. They are supposed to analyze the issues at hand and suggest durable solutions based on their knowledge and experience. With a permit to work independently, Masters are the highest degree of qualified plumbers, who can take juniors under their wing and be on the commanding level of the work hierarchy. However, exams and certifications are also needed to attain this level of mastery. 

Criteria and procedures 

There are various courses you can take to become a qualified plumber. Plumbing diplomas are sure to give you a start which you can use to learn more, get professional licenses and increase your credibility. The subject decides whether they want to proceed with domestic or professional plumbing.
A plumber must possess impeccable knowledge of distribution and flow for different building types and areas. They are required to have adequate construction information to be able to read blueprints and interpret the drawings for installation purposes. The specifications vary for different courses and institutions. Hence, you must have clear goals for your learning curve to be a qualified plumber.

Important plumbing laws in the UK

The amount and nature of regulations can vary based on areas, building owners, contractors, etc. A plumber must abide by all such rules based on the working space. However, there is a specific set of guidelines provided by the UK government which can be applied regardless of the location and atmosphere:

1. The Water Supply (fitting) Regulations 1999 apply to all forms of properties and categorize the fluids from 1 to 5 based on an ascending risk of health issues and contamination. More details on backflow prevention and mitigation tools can be found online.
2. Water Regulations Schedule 2.7 provides accessible fitting and pipe installation guidelines for owners and plumbers.

Thermostatic Mixing Valve Regulations state a suitable variety of temperatures and thermostat installation guidelines to minimize valve and equipment damage.