Drain Cleaning Company Calgary | When it comes to home repairs, it’s tempting to take the quickest or most affordable route. For small fixes, a handyman can be a convenient option, but when the job involves your home’s plumbing system, making the right choice is essential. From leak repairs to full system installations, hiring the right professional can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between a licensed plumber and a handyman, and help you decide who to call when major plumbing work needs to be done.
1. Understanding the Level of Training and Certification
The Difference
Handymen typically have general home repair skills, but they are not required to undergo specialized plumbing training. Licensed plumbers, on the other hand, complete years of formal education, apprenticeships, trade exams, and ongoing safety training.
Why It Matters
Plumbing systems are complex and must meet strict provincial codes. Improper repairs can lead to leaks, water damage, mould growth, and expensive rework later on.
Who to Choose
For any job involving pipes, fixtures, drainage systems, or water heaters, a licensed plumber is the safest choice.
2. Assessing the Scope of the Job
The Difference
Handymen are ideal for minor tasks like fixing a loose showerhead or replacing a faucet aerator. But bigger projects, such as installing a new toilet, repairing a burst pipe, or upgrading supply lines, require technical expertise.
Why It Matters
Large plumbing jobs often involve opening walls, connecting to municipal systems, shutting off main water lines, or ensuring proper venting. These tasks require precise knowledge and industry-standard tools.
Who to Choose
If the job affects your home’s water supply or drainage system, call a licensed plumber.
3. Insurance, Permits, and Liability
The Difference
Licensed plumbers carry full liability insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and are familiar with required city permits. Handymen may not have the same protections.
Why It Matters
If something goes wrong, such as flooding, property damage, or personal injury, improper insurance can leave the homeowner fully responsible.
Who to Choose
Any project where there’s risk of significant water damage should always be handled by a fully licensed and insured plumbing professional.
4. Cost vs. Long-Term Value
The Difference
A handyman may offer a lower hourly rate, but a lower cost doesn’t always mean better value, especially if the repair doesn’t hold up.
Why It Matters
Poor plumbing work can lead to repeated problems, higher utility bills, and costly emergency repairs. A licensed plumber provides long-lasting, code-compliant solutions.
Who to Choose
Think long-term. Investing in a qualified plumber often saves more money over the lifespan of your plumbing system.
5. Tools, Equipment, and Diagnostic Accuracy
The Difference
Handymen usually carry basic tools for general repairs. Licensed plumbers arrive with advanced diagnostic equipment, pipe cameras, hydro-jetting systems, leak detectors, and more.
Why It Matters
Complex issues require precise inspection to prevent unnecessary repairs or misdiagnosis. For example, only a licensed plumber or drain cleaning company Calgary homeowners trust has the right tools to assess deep blockages or drainage failures.
Who to Choose
Whenever the problem extends beyond a simple surface-level fix, choose a plumber with the right equipment.
6. Warranty, Guarantees & Peace of Mind
The Difference
Many licensed plumbers offer service warranties and guarantees on both labour and materials. Handymen may not.
Why It Matters
A warranty protects if the issue reoccurs, saving you the stress of dealing with the same problem twice.
Who to Choose
If you want long-term assurance on your repair, call a licensed plumber who stands behind their work.
Trust What The Flush Plumbing Services for Your Big Plumbing Jobs
When major plumbing issues arise, choosing the right professional makes all the difference. At What The Flush Plumbing Services, our certified and experienced team delivers high-quality, reliable solutions for Calgary homeowners. From emergency repairs to large upgrades, we ensure every job is done safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard.
Whether you’re dealing with drainage issues, fixture installations, or plumbing system upgrades, our licensed plumbers are here to help keep your home running smoothly.
Need expert plumbing help? Contact What The Flush Plumbing Services today.