Why Hiring a Licensed Plumber for Your Bathroom Remodel Saves You Money

You're ready to transform that outdated bathroom into your dream space. You've picked out the perfect fixtures, chosen your tile, and hired a general contractor to bring it all together. But here's a question many Minnesota homeowners overlook: who's handling the plumbing work?

At First Class Plumbing, we've seen too many beautiful bathroom remodels compromised by improper plumbing installation. What looks great on day one can turn into a nightmare of leaks, code violations, and costly repairs down the road. Here's why hiring a licensed plumber for your bathroom or kitchen remodel isn't just smart—it's essential.

The Three Critical Reasons to Hire a Licensed Plumber

1. Code Compliance: More Than Just Paperwork

Minnesota plumbing code exists for a reason: your safety. When we handle bathroom remodels, code compliance is our top priority. Here's what that means for you:

Proper venting: Every fixture needs to be vented correctly to prevent dangerous sewer gases from entering your home. According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, sewer gases can be fatal, and improper venting is one of the most common code violations we see from unlicensed work.

Correct pipe sizing: Your new shower might have five body sprays and a rain head, but if the supply lines aren't sized properly, you'll have pathetic water pressure. We calculate the right sizing so your system performs as it should.

Lead-free fixtures: Minnesota code now requires 0% lead in plumbing fixtures. If you're updating an older home, your existing fixtures may contain lead and must be replaced during a remodel. A licensed plumber knows these requirements; a handyman might not.

Permit requirements: Proper plumbing work requires permits and inspections. This protects you if you ever sell your home—unpermitted work can kill a real estate deal or force you to redo everything at your expense.

2. Safety: Protecting Your Biggest Investment

Your home is likely your largest investment. Improper plumbing work can create serious safety hazards:

• Water damage: One incorrectly installed connection can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage, mold remediation, and structural repairs
• Gas line safety: If your remodel involves moving a gas water heater or adding a gas fireplace, licensed plumbers are trained in proper gas line installation—a mistake here can be deadly
• Sewer gas exposure: Improperly sealed drains allow sewer gases into your home, which can cause serious health issues
• Electrical hazards: Plumbing and electrical systems often intersect in bathrooms. A licensed plumber knows how to work safely around electrical components

We recently inspected a bathroom where an unlicensed contractor had installed a beautiful walk-in shower—but failed to vent the drain properly. The homeowner was exposed to sewer gases for months before calling us. The "savings" from skipping a licensed plumber cost them thousands in repairs and potential health impacts.

3. Functionality: It Should Work as Well as It Looks

A gorgeous bathroom that doesn't function properly is just an expensive disappointment. Licensed plumbers ensure:

Proper drainage: We know the correct slope for drain lines, preventing standing water and future clogs

Adequate water pressure: All fixtures receive proper flow, even when multiple are running simultaneously

Long-term reliability: Professional installations simply last longer, saving you money on repairs

What Does a Licensed Plumber Do in a Bathroom Remodel?

When you hire First Class Plumbing for your bathroom or kitchen remodel, here's what we handle:

• Installing tubs, shower inserts, and walk-in showers
• Relocating drains and water lines for new layouts
• Installing or replacing all fixtures (faucets, toilets, shower valves)
• Ensuring all work meets current Minnesota plumbing code
• Coordinating with your general contractor for seamless installation
• Obtaining necessary permits and scheduling inspections
• Providing a one-year warranty on all parts and labor

We work extensively with general contractors throughout the metro area. If you're planning a remodel and need a reliable plumbing partner, check out our bathroom and kitchen plumbing services.

The Real Cost of Cutting Corners

Let's talk numbers. Hiring a licensed plumber might cost more upfront than having your general contractor's "guy who knows plumbing" do the work. But consider:

Unpermitted work can reduce your home's value. When you sell, home inspectors will identify unpermitted plumbing work. You'll either need to:

• Reduce your asking price
• Pay to have it redone properly
• Risk the deal falling through entirely

Failed inspections delay projects and cost more. If work doesn't pass inspection, you're paying twice—once for the incorrect work and again to fix it.

You'll pay twice for the same repair. We regularly get calls from homeowners who need us to fix what an unlicensed plumber or handyman botched. Now they're paying our rate on top of what they already spent.

Insurance might not cover damage from unlicensed work. Check your homeowner's policy—many won't cover water damage caused by unlicensed contractors.

Red Flags: When Your Contractor Isn't Using a Licensed Plumber

Watch for these warning signs:

• They tell you permits aren't necessary (they almost always are)
• They can't provide proof of licensing and insurance
• They pressure you to skip inspections to "save time"
• The price seems too good to be true (it usually is)
• They discourage you from asking questions about code compliance

According to recent investigations reported by local news outlets, unlicensed plumbing work is far more common than homeowners realize. Protect yourself by always verifying credentials.

Questions to Ask Your Remodeling Team

Before starting your bathroom or kitchen remodel, ask:

1. "Who will be doing the plumbing work, and are they licensed?" Get the name and license number.
2. "Will you be pulling permits?" If the answer is no, that's a red flag.
3. "What's your warranty on the plumbing work?" At First Class Plumbing, we offer a comprehensive one-year warranty on parts and labor.
4. "Can you provide references for similar projects?" Any reputable plumber should have satisfied customers willing to vouch for their work.
5. "What brands do you work with?" We work with trusted brands like Moen, Delta, Kohler, Toto, American Standard, and Gerber—quality manufacturers that stand behind their products.

First Class Plumbing: Your Bathroom Remodel Partner

At First Class Plumbing, we've built our reputation on honest recommendations and quality work. When you hire us for your bathroom or kitchen remodel, you get:

• Licensed, insured professionals who prioritize code compliance and safety
• Transparent pricing with multiple options so you can make the best decision for your budget
• Quality installations that function beautifully for years to come
• One-year warranty on all parts and labor
• Coordination with your general contractor for a seamless remodel experience

We're not here to push unnecessary upgrades or scare you into expensive work. We're here to do the job right, explain our process, and give you peace of mind that your remodel will stand the test of time.

Ready to Start Your Bathroom Remodel?

Don't compromise on the quality of your plumbing work. Contact First Class Plumbing today to discuss your bathroom or kitchen remodeling needs. We'll work with you and your general contractor to ensure your dream space is both beautiful and functional.