Plumber Business Startup Checklist
Everything you need to launch a compliant, professional plumbing business in the UK — from WaterSafe and Gas Safe registration through to tools, van stock, and your first customers.
What's included
- Legal structure registration (Ltd vs sole trader)
- WaterSafe approved contractor scheme membership
- Gas Safe registration for gas work (if applicable)
- Insurance requirements and minimum cover amounts
- Essential tools checklist for a plumbing start-up
- Van stock list for common emergency callouts
- Accounting software setup guidance
- How to get your first customers with Tradejoy
Preview: first 5 steps
Register with HMRC or Companies House
Decide between sole trader (simpler, HMRC Self Assessment) or limited company (more protection, more admin). Most plumbers start sole trader and convert later.
Join WaterSafe (approved contractor scheme)
WaterSafe is the UK's only national register of approved plumbers. It's required for notifying certain types of water fitting work under Water Regulations 1999.
Public liability insurance (minimum £2m)
PLI covers you if you cause damage to a customer's property or injure a third party. Most landlords and letting agents require proof before you start work.
Gas Safe registration if doing gas work
It is illegal to carry out gas work without being registered with Gas Safe Register. The scheme covers domestic, commercial, and industrial gas installations.
Essential tools: pipe cutters, press fit tools, leak detection
Minimum toolkit: pipe cutters (15mm and 22mm), pipe bender, press fit crimping tool, leak detection kit, and a set of isolation valves. Add expansion tools for MLCP.
Get your free copy
Enter your email and we'll send it straight to your inbox.