If there's something wrong with your plumbing system, chances are you'll call a plumbing company to have it handled. But depending on what type of problem you have or what type of assistance is needed, the company may send out either a plumber or a plumbing contractor to help you.

What's the difference? For most homeowners, these two positions occupy the exact same function, and in many cases, they do indeed perform many of the same services. In reality, the services that a plumbing contractor will provide are substantially different and include the ones outlined below.

Planning Your Build

Plumbing contractors have a wide range of expertise and experience in a variety of different contexts, whether residential or commercial. What that means for you is that if you're planning on an expansion or a new build, you'll need a plumbing contractor that has expertise in the area that you're requiring to make sure it's mapped out correctly. Plumbing contractors have certifications and licenses in different areas and can also draw up blueprints for you to help map out your needs correctly, such as multilevel plumbing systems and commercial applications for restaurants and warehouses.

Overseeing Your Project

No matter how large the project is, you need somebody to oversee it from start to finish. Since plumbing contractors usually operate as the head of their own company or lead a group within a larger company, one of the many plumbing contractor services they provide is project management. Though they probably will get their hands dirty in the job itself, they also work to maintain a safe and clean job site, as well as making sure all the tasks are performed up to code.

Specialized Consultant

Even if you don't hire a plumbing contractor to perform the entire project, you also the option of hiring one to consult on your project on an as-needed basis. They can recommend newer technologies or products that can enhance your current build and can also construct a piece of your home's plumbing system, such as the waste disposal system or gas control valves. If you do call in a plumbing contractor for these one-off jobs, they'll most likely work hand-in-hand with whoever is in charge of your project as a whole.

Final Inspection and Walk-Through

Once the project is completed, a plumbing contractor will usually either walk through the site with the homeowner or the general contractor (or both) to ensure that the job has been performed adequately. They'll also file any required paperwork with the city to make sure that your home or business meets the regulations required and will fix any issues that are found to be deficient.

Reach out to a plumbing contractor to learn more.