How to Choose a Plumber in Metro Detroit

Michigan licenses plumbers, and that license is not a formality — it means the person passed exams on code, venting, and safety. Ask for the license number and confirm it is current with the state. Then ask for proof of liability insurance and, if they have a crew, workers’ comp. A plumber who hesitates on either is telling you something. This single step screens out most of the bad actors.

Ask whether the job needs a permit and inspection (the honest answer for bigger work is yes), how they will handle venting and slope, and whether they will bring older components up to code. A pro answers specifically and welcomes the inspection. Vague answers, a push to skip the permit, or "we don’t need an inspection for that" on work that clearly does are all warnings to walk.

Be cautious of cash-only deals, large upfront deposits, no written scope, pressure to decide immediately, and quotes far below everyone else — cheap usually means uninspected and unlicensed. We pre-screen every plumber in our network for a current Michigan license, active insurance, and a real track record, so the pro who quotes your job has already cleared those checks. You still choose, but you start from a vetted shortlist instead of an internet gamble.