Beware of unlicensed Florida plumbing contractors advertising their ability to perform a wide range of plumbing work without essential licenses or training. Think about it – If an unlicensed plumber injuries themselves on a job at your house, who will pay the hospital bills if there is an accident or injury? So if you are approached by someone who says they are a plumber, watch for the following warning signs.

These may indicate the person/company is not certified:

• You are asked to obtain the permit.
• A large down payment is required before work begins.
• No license number on the vehicle, business card, contract, newspaper/flyer or yellow page ad.
• The plumbing contractor displays only an “Occupational License” which is required in addition to Certificate of Competency.
• Permit is obtained by someone other than the person/company to do the work.
• You are informed that the job does not require a permit or inspection.
• Verbal contract only, person is not willing to put all terms in writing.
• The plumbing contractor is only willing to work on weekends or after hours.
• May request front money (money before work begins).
• The contractor does not have proof of General Liability or Workman’s Compensation Insurance in Florida.

You can be assured that Cooke’s Plumbing and Septic Services plumbers are are fully licensed as Cooke’s is a fully licensed and insured plumbing and septic service company. Cooke’s fully complies with all Florida state, local Martin County St. Lucie and Indian River County licensing authorities and federal guidelines to ensure the permitting, licensing, waste handling and disposal are all done within the precise regulatory mandates.

So if you need it done right the first time, but a licensed plumber….Call Cooke’s at (772) 287-0651 in Stuart, (772) 878-7444 in Port St. Lucie or (772) 465-8300 in Vero Beach or Fort Pierce.