Plumbing contractors in
Providence, Rhode Island.
A public directory of licensed plumbing contractors serving greater Providence. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Rhode Island requires Master Plumber License through Department of Labor and Training. Must complete 4-year apprenticeship or equivalent experience, pass state exam, maintain $10,000 surety bond. Journeyman license requires 2-year apprenticeship minimum. Licenses renewed every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
City of Providence requires permits for water heater replacement, new installations, re-piping, and sewer connections. Permit fees range $50-200. Must be pulled by licensed contractor.
Inspection Schedule
Rough-in inspection before covering work, final inspection upon completion. Water service connections require separate water department approval.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation required for employees. Bonding requirements vary by project scope.
How to Get Licensed
Complete apprenticeship
Complete minimum 2-year apprenticeship for Journeyman or 4-year for Master Plumber through approved program or demonstrate equivalent work experience
Apply to Department of Labor
Submit application to Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training Division of Professional Regulation with proof of apprenticeship completion and required fees
Pass state examination
Schedule and pass Rhode Island plumbing contractor examination covering codes, regulations, and trade knowledge (Master license only)
Obtain surety bond
Secure $10,000 surety bond from approved provider and submit bond documentation with license application
Maintain license
Renew license every 2 years, complete required continuing education hours, and maintain current insurance and bonding requirements
About This Market
Providence runs 483 licensed plumbing establishments across the state, creating solid competition in the metro area. The housing stock is old - lots of Victorian and early 1900s homes needing constant pipe work, water service upgrades, and heating system maintenance. Winter emergency calls for frozen pipes and boiler repairs keep crews busy when construction slows. Median wage hits $34.98/hour, which tracks with the skilled trade shortage keeping rates competitive. The market supports both residential service calls and commercial renovation work downtown, plus steady new construction in the suburbs. Getting licensed in Rhode Island means navigating the Department of Labor and Training's apprenticeship requirements - 4 years for master level, 2 minimum for journeyman. The state takes licensing seriously with exam requirements and continuing education. Providence permit process is straightforward but required for most installations. Winter season separates the pros from the weekend warriors - emergency calls, frozen pipe repairs, and boiler work keep revenue flowing when other trades slow down. Know your old cast iron and galvanized systems - half your service calls will be 100-year-old plumbing finally giving up.
- Median hourly wage $34.98/hrBureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
- 483 licensed establishments in RIU.S. Census Bureau County Business Patterns
- Licensing requirementsRhode Island Department of Labor and Training Division of Professional Regulation
- Permit requirementsCity of Providence Building Department
- Insurance minimumsRhode Island Department of Business Regulation
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do plumbers make in Providence, RI?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, plumbers in Rhode Island earn a median wage of $34.98 per hour or $72,758 annually, reflecting the skilled trade shortage and demand for experienced contractors.
What license do I need to work as a plumber in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training requires either a Journeyman Plumber License (minimum 2-year apprenticeship) or Master Plumber License (4-year apprenticeship or equivalent experience plus state exam). Master license required to pull permits.
Do I need permits for plumbing work in Providence?
Yes, Providence Building Department requires permits for water heater replacement, new installations, re-piping, and sewer connections. Permits range $50-200 and must be pulled by licensed contractors.
When is peak season for plumbers in Providence?
October through March represents peak season due to heating system repairs, frozen pipe emergencies, and indoor renovation projects when homeowners avoid exterior work during New England winters.
How many plumbing contractors operate in Rhode Island?
Census data shows approximately 483 licensed plumbing establishments operate statewide, creating competitive market conditions particularly in the Providence metropolitan area.
Plumbing contractors in Providence
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