Plumbing Contractors in Memphis, Tennessee
Licensed Establishments
1,745
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
Winter months (December-February) due to frozen pipe emergencies and summer (June-August) for new construction
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
24-48 hours for quotes, same day for emergency calls
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Drain cleaning | $95 – $275 |
| Water heater installation | $1,200 – $2,800 |
| Toilet replacement | $250 – $650 |
| Pipe repair/replacement | $175 – $850 |
| Faucet installation | $150 – $400 |
| Sewer line repair | $1,500 – $4,500 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
TN requires plumber license through Department of Commerce & Insurance. Master Plumber license requires 4 years experience plus exam. Journeyman requires 2 years apprenticeship plus exam. Licenses renew every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
City of Memphis requires permits for water heater replacement, new plumbing installations, and major repairs. Permits range $25-150 depending on scope. Available through Memphis Building Services.
Inspection Schedule
Initial rough-in inspection before covering work, final inspection after completion. Schedule 24-48 hours in advance through Memphis Building Services.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 recommended. Workers compensation required if employees. Bonding requirements vary by project size and municipal contracts.
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Meet experience requirements
Complete 2 years apprenticeship for Journeyman or 4 years experience for Master Plumber license
- 2
Submit application
File application with TN Department of Commerce & Insurance including experience verification and background check
- 3
Pass examination
Take and pass state plumber examination covering codes, regulations, and technical knowledge
- 4
Pay fees and obtain license
Pay licensing fees and receive license certificate valid for 2 years
- 5
Maintain license
Complete continuing education requirements and renew every 2 years
About This Market
Memphis plumbing market serves 650,000 metro residents with mix of older housing stock and steady commercial development. About 1745 licensed plumbing establishments operate statewide with Memphis holding significant concentration. Older homes drive repair work - cast iron replacements, repiping jobs. Summer construction season and winter freeze damage create demand peaks. Competition is moderate with room for quality contractors.
Get your TN plumber license sorted first - state runs a tight ship on licensing and inspections. Memphis building department moves decent pace but plan your inspection scheduling around their workload. Winter emergency calls pay premium rates but summer construction work provides steady income. Know the local supply houses - Ferguson and local distributors offer contractor accounts. Insurance costs reasonable but don't skimp on coverage. Memphis Water Division has specific connection requirements you need to learn.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need to work as a plumber in Memphis, TN?▾
How much do plumbers charge in Memphis for common services?▾
Do I need permits for plumbing work in Memphis?▾
How many plumbing contractors operate in Tennessee?▾
What insurance do plumbers need in Tennessee?▾
Contractors in Memphis
0 plumbing contractors in Memphis.
No contractors listed yet.
Are you a plumbing contractor in Memphis?
Get listed on The Board free. Manage your leads, jobs, and follow-ups with The Forge.
Get Listed Free