01Who may perform plumbing
- Licensed master plumbers, licensed by the NJ State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers
- Authorized plumbing contractors, working through a licensed master plumber as their bona fide representative
- Employees paid on a W-2 and supervised by a master plumber
02The homeowner exemption
State rules exempt a homeowner doing plumbing work in their own single-family dwelling from the licensing requirement. That does not remove permit and inspection requirements: work that needs a permit still needs one, from your municipal construction office. Ask the construction office before you start.
03Checking a license
Use the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs license verification for the State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers. Search by name or license number, and make sure the license is active.
04Licenses that don't count
- A New York City, Westchester or Long Island license does not authorize plumbing in NJ
- Home improvement contractor registration is not a plumbing license
05Frequently asked questions
Can a handyman replace my water heater in NJ?
Not unless they are a licensed master plumber or working under one. The homeowner exemption applies only to the owner working on their own single-family home.
06Related
Services
Guides & rules
Sources & review
Last reviewed . General information, not legal or engineering advice. Rules change and individual buildings differ.