Licensed Plumber Necessary?
I have a friend looking to do some plumbing work in a condo unit. The work would consist of switching the location of the tub and the toilet. I told him that he would probably need a licensed plumber because the drains and pipes were being moved. He has a licensed plumber who said he…
I have a friend looking to do some plumbing work in a condo unit. The work would consist of switching the location of the tub and the toilet. I told him that he would probably need a licensed plumber because the drains and pipes were being moved. He has a licensed plumber who said he could do the work without filing and it would be cheaper. My friend has stated that his building would not require him to file with the DOB to do the project.
My question is if the licensed plumber is even required at this point? I understand that it is not the proper way to go about things, but it seems like all parties are consenting to this so what consequences would there be?
I’m assuming that there would be no insurance in case things go south, but if the work is done well, would there be any problems?
Why bother with insurance if you’re doing the project illegally? An insurance policy would require the project to have been done with proper procedures to support a claim. Which is a good point BKed, since you’re asking about “consequences” in your original post.
The most important financial consequences would be that working without a permit (in a situation where the law requires a permit) would mean financial exposure for the owner were anything to go wrong. Given the value of NYC properties, that could be a pretty big roll of the dice.
From the standpoint of the City, the consequences for being caught for work without a permit would start at a first fine of $5000 and blocking any further work until the issue was resolved.
It seems there two things which I may be confusing. I am assuming there is no insurance because no permits are being filed. Is it possible to have insurance without pulling a permit?
i don’t understand what the big deal is. you have a plumber who is willing to do the job and save you money and time by not pulling permits. what is the debate? its a simple job.
Perhaps I’m missing something, but the fact that the contractor will perform the work without pulling the permits has nothing to do with whether the contractor is insured or licensed. Definitely confirm the latter, the first is at your friend’s discretion.
Why would anyone not bring in a licensed professional to perform work in their apartment? God forbid this plumber hits into a pipe or causes any damage to the unit (or surrounding units), everyone’s going to be looking for his certificate of insurance. Also, if Mr. Plumber accidentally drops a hammer on his big toe, you can bet he’ll come around to sue the owner, the building and the management company. I am in management and deal with this day in and day out…get a licensed professional and provide the certificate of insurance to the property manager, and the owner should keep a copy for themself as well. Management should have an agreement that owners complete before they do this type of work.
here is a solution. Ask your super or building management office to reccommend a plumber.
you can try Fred Smith plumbing. They disconnected and removed 2 radiators from my condo. The work was clean and very good. Prices are reasonable. Ask for free estimate.
If they do the job tell the guy to call in the hours he was there/ Thats what you pay. Its less tan the estimate.
They are licensed and insured.
Your best guarantee that the job will be done right is using a licensed reputable plumber. Check references. Pulling permits for small projects is a pain and can be costly and time consuming. Most plumbers will be happy to pull the permits but you will pay extra and you will get the exact same job either way.
Of course permits aren’t a guarantee of good work. But not pulling a permit when it is required by law is an indicator of someone who cuts corners.
Just because a plumber files with the DOB is no guarantee that his work is going to be up to code and properly done.
Just get yourself a reputable plumber and get it done. If the condo mgmt. has no problem with not filing, this is not a big job. Practicvally anybody can do it and do it properly.