Plumbing · Can wait

New install or repipe? Here’s what to do.

This is work to plan, compare and permit. Two questions save trouble: is it licensed, and is it permitted?

Ask Vora about this Who would you send?

First, this

Ask to see the license. Texas plumbing license holders must carry their license or registration while doing plumbing, so you can ask to see it. Source
Ask about the permit. Ask about permits. Texas cities that regulate plumbing must require a permit except for listed minor jobs: repairing leaks and replacing faucets, ballcocks, water control valves, garbage disposals, or toilets. Source
Tyler permits are filed online. In Tyler, the city's Development & Planning site offers online submission of permits, including plumbing permits. Source
Your own home, your own work. A property owner may do plumbing in their own homestead without a state plumbing license. Source
Septic work needs its own permit. For a new or repaired septic system, a permit and approved plan are required; in Smith County, start with a licensed installer. Source

Photo: Ra Dragon, Unsplash

Usually one to plan.

TodayWater heater failed (no hot water, leaking tank) and replacement is the likely fix.

Can waitReplacements and repipes can be scheduled, compared, and permitted.

Before you call

Safety first

Have qualified licensed technicians install all gas appliances. Source
For fuel-fired water heaters, look for sealed combustion or power venting to avoid combustion gases back-drafting into the home. Source
Galvanized pipes can collect lead particles that later enter drinking water. Source

What to tell the plumber

Home age, number of bathrooms, and current pipe material (galvanized, polybutylene, copper, CPVC, PEX) if known.
A count of fixtures (toilets, sinks, tubs, showers) helps; Tyler's plumbing permit fee is charged per fixture.
For a water heater: fuel (gas/electric), tank or tankless, size, location, and a photo of the label and venting.
City sewer or septic, and whether the house is inside Tyler or Longview city limits or in the county.

What it costs

Your plumber quotes before starting; we don’t publish plumbers’ prices. City fees we can source: Longview residential permit - mechanical, electrical, plumbing, gas, irrigation: $80; Longview re-inspection: $100; Longview work without required permit: double permit fee, minimum $100: $100; Longview water turn-on for a plumbing inspection only (max 5 days): $50.

Asking Vora is free. The plumber pays us a referral fee.