Recent reports have highlighted a troubling trend in the UK plumbing market: crash courses that claim to turn complete beginners into plumbers in just a few days. One such programme has been featured in national press, where trainees were encouraged to prioritise sales techniques over real technical skills and even advised on how to inflate prices for customers instead of focusing on quality workmanship.
Why this matters to you
Plumbing is a highly technical and safety-critical trade. Mistakes can lead to:
• Water damage, mould and structural issues
• Health hazards from badly installed water systems
• Voided insurance and legal issues if work isn’t compliant
• Expensive repairs when poor workmanship fails
Courses that promise “qualified” plumber status after a few days cannot realistically equip someone with the depth of understanding and hands-on experience required to work safely and competently.
Don’t take chances, use verified Professionals
To protect your home, always choose a qualified and reputable plumber. One of the best ways to do this is by using the Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) member database. APHC members are professionally vetted, regularly monitored and must uphold industry-accepted standards of workmanship and customer service.
Using a member from a recognised trade association gives you:
• Confidence that the plumber has real training and experience
• Assurance that work complies with legal and safety standards
• A formal complaints process if something goes wrong
• A professional committed to doing the job right first time
Find a trusted and vetted plumber near you: https://aphc.co.uk/find-an-aphc-member/
Tips for Homeowners
• Ask to see qualifications and certificates before work begins
• Get multiple quotes and compare them carefully
• Avoid anyone who pressures you or asks for large upfront payments – alternatively, if a price feels too good to be true, it probably is!
Your home deserves more than shortcuts, choose professionals who take their craft seriously and who are accountable to a recognised trade body like APHC.