Trade directory · Franklin metro · Tennessee

Plumbing contractors in
Franklin, Tennessee.

A public directory of licensed plumbing contractors serving greater Franklin. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.

Licensed Establishments
1,745
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
November through March - winter freeze damage and holiday home preparations drive demand
Market estimate
Avg. Response Time
24-48 hours for quotes, same-day for emergency calls
Operator average
§ A · Market rates

Common Job Costs

FRANKLIN-TN · LOCAL ESTIMATES
Service
Description
Cost Range
Basic drain cleaning
Typical range based on local basic drain cleaning jobs.
$125 – $275
Water heater installation
Typical range based on local water heater installation jobs.
$1,200 – $2,800
Toilet replacement
Typical range based on local toilet replacement jobs.
$350 – $650
Kitchen sink installation
Typical range based on local kitchen sink installation jobs.
$400 – $800
Main sewer line repair
Typical range based on local main sewer line repair jobs.
$2,500 – $8,500
Faucet replacement
Typical range based on local faucet replacement jobs.
$200 – $450
§ B · Regulatory

Licensing Requirements

TN
§1

Licensing Requirements

TN requires Journeyman Plumber license through state exam, 4 years apprenticeship or equivalent experience, Master Plumber license for business ownership requiring additional exam and 2 years journeyman experience, licenses renewed every 2 years with continuing education

§2

Permit Requirements

Plumbing permits required through Franklin Building Department for water heater replacement, fixture installation, new plumbing lines, sewer connections - typically $50-150 depending on scope

§3

Inspection Schedule

Rough-in inspection before covering work, final inspection after completion, 24-hour notice required for scheduling through Franklin Building Department

§4

Insurance Minimums

General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation if employees, bonding requirements vary by project value

§ C · Path to license

How to Get Licensed

5 STEPS
1

Complete apprenticeship

Complete 4-year plumbing apprenticeship program or equivalent 8000 hours documented work experience under licensed plumber supervision

01/05
2

Submit application

File Journeyman Plumber application with Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance including experience documentation, fees, and background check

02/05
3

Pass state examination

Pass Tennessee plumbing examination covering codes, safety, and trade practices administered by PSI testing centers

03/05
4

Obtain Master license

After 2 years journeyman experience, apply for Master Plumber license requiring additional examination for business ownership and supervision rights

04/05
5

Maintain license

Renew license every 2 years with continuing education requirements and maintain good standing with state licensing board

05/05
§ D · Field notes

About This Market

UPDATED APR 2026

Franklin's plumbing market runs hot with steady residential growth and established neighborhoods needing system updates. Competition is moderate with roughly 1745 licensed establishments statewide, but Franklin's affluent market supports premium pricing for quality work. Sewer line issues from older infrastructure and water heater replacements drive consistent revenue. Peak winter months bring freeze damage calls that separate the pros from the weekend warriors. Getting licensed in Tennessee means grinding through apprenticeship requirements and state exams - no shortcuts. Franklin Building Department runs tight inspections, so know your codes before you rough-in. The money's good if you can handle the upscale clientele who expect white-glove service. Emergency response capability during freeze events can make your year, but you better have the crew and equipment to back up your promises.

Data Sources
  • Licensed establishments count
    U.S. Census Bureau
  • Licensing requirements
    Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance
  • Permit costs
    Franklin Building Department fee schedule
  • Cost ranges
    Local market estimates
  • Insurance requirements
    Tennessee contractor licensing board
§ E · FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

05 QUESTIONS
Q/01

What license do I need to work as a plumber in Franklin, TN?

You need a Tennessee Journeyman Plumber license minimum, obtained through state examination after completing 4-year apprenticeship. Master Plumber license required for business ownership, per Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.

Q/02

How much do plumbing permits cost in Franklin?

Franklin Building Department charges $50-150 for most plumbing permits depending on scope. Water heater replacement typically $75, new bathroom rough-in around $125, according to current fee schedule.

Q/03

What's the typical cost for water heater installation in Franklin?

Water heater installation ranges $1200-2800 in Franklin market, with tankless units commanding premium pricing. Cost varies by unit type, venting requirements, and permit fees.

Q/04

When is plumbing work busiest in Franklin, TN?

Peak season runs November through March due to winter freeze damage and holiday preparations. Emergency calls spike during hard freezes, creating premium billing opportunities for prepared contractors.

Q/05

How many licensed plumbers operate in Tennessee?

Approximately 1745 licensed plumbing establishments operate statewide according to Census data, with concentration in Nashville metro including Franklin market creating moderate competition levels.

§ F · Directory

Plumbing contractors in Franklin

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