In surveys ranking the UK\u2019s most satisfied workers, plumbers have often come out on top. Here\u2019s how to become a self-employed plumber and share a piece of the happiness.<\/p>\n\n
Research has revealed that plumbers are \u2018very happy\u2019 in life overall. For the self-employed plumbers out there, it could be something to do with being their own boss and being able to choose the customers they work with.<\/p>\n\n
So, if you\u2019re a plumber and wondering about starting a plumbing business, we\u2019ve got you covered. And, if you want to know how to become a self-employed plumber but don\u2019t have any experience, we’ll give you some practical steps to get you on your way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As with most tradespeople, plumbers can face a huge variety of tasks. This could be one of the reasons they\u2019re content with work, as no two days are the same.<\/p>\n\n
Plumbers are also expected to be on call at evenings and weekends, heading to jobs at the last minute if a client is facing an emergency. Although this can be stressful, seeing the joy on someone\u2019s face after you\u2019ve fixed what\u2019s gone wrong can be very rewarding.<\/p>\n\n
As a self-employed plumber, these are just some of the tasks you\u2019ll likely perform:<\/p>\n\n
Some plumbers will also diversify their offering by taking on jobs slightly outside of their usual expertise. Keep in mind that if you’re offering additional services, you should always let your insurer know. These additional services may include:<\/p>\n\n
There are similarities across both domestic and commercial jobs. However, the key difference is the size of the buildings \u2013 and the amount of people who use the plumbing systems.<\/p>\n\n
In a house, the plumbing is built for just a few people. In an office building, the plumbing might service thousands, meaning greater demand on the system. There will be lots of floors, which means the plumbing is more complex, and you need to think more about things like gravity and water pressure. Similarly, the size of the contracts will be larger.<\/p>\n\n
The equipment you work with will also be different \u2013 think industrial-grade pipes and boilers versus the smaller appliances in a residential building.<\/p>\n\n
If you want to become a self-employed plumber from scratch, it\u2019s good to know how to build the right skillset, in terms of qualifications and experience.<\/p>\n\n
You\u2019ll usually need an industry-recognised qualification like a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Domestic Plumbing and Heating (gas related units at level 3 are required to work with domestic gas heating systems).<\/p>\n\n
You could also try becoming an apprentice, letting you earn while you learn.<\/p>\n\n
In terms of skills, the National Careers Service says you need:<\/p>\n\n
The last point is particularly vital for self-employed plumbers, as you\u2019ll need to manage client relationships and grow your network.<\/p>\n\n
The average self-employed plumber earns \u00a330,000-40,000 a year. But remember, self-employed plumbers set their own rates, so the amount you earn can vary. It will depend on things like location, the type of work you do (think domestic versus commercial), and what your competition is charging. Remember, you’ll also have the option to expand your business and potentially hire employees<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n These figures are a guide, but some self-employed plumbers can charge \u00a390 an hour<\/strong> and can potentially earn \u00a31,000 a week<\/strong> (or more).<\/p>\n\n A bit of research should help. Phone around, see what other self-employed plumbers are charging in your area, and set your rates accordingly.<\/p>\n\nHow to start a plumbing business<\/h2>\n\n