Contractors face spotty regulation. Sometimes states and counties enforce licensure with heavy penalties, and sometimes licenses are suggestions instead of requirements. Arizona and Utah  do require plumbers to be licensed, even if it's on specific cities and municipalities to enforce it. Here are three more reasons to take the exams and keep your license up to date:

1. You can stay up-to-date on coding changes and new materials.

Plumbing styles fade in and out of fashion, and it's important to know what most consumers are starting to expect. But you also need to know which materials the industry itself is starting to regard as old or unsafe practices. Whether it's the pipes, the sealants, or the replacement parts, new regulations mandate what you're allowed to use. Keep your certification up-to-date so you are alerted to bad business practices. Keep your license updated also means you know of any commercial or residential restrictions before you accept a job.

2. You can widen your customer base.

Government buildings need plumbing updates and repairs all the time, and you certainly have to be licensed to get those contracts. Government building managers often have a standard list of requirements that any contractor they hire has to meet, and they are non-negotiable; even if a license was not a state requirement, they'd require it to ensure quality service. Most major corporations have the same tight requirements and won't consider hiring private contractors that aren't licensed.

3. You can get more affordable insurance.

Professional businesses need commercial liability coverage, and plumbers are included in that category. Customers can make claims for poor service or water damage that was caused even in part by your company, and you need insurance to address those claims without risking bankruptcy. As consumers become more and more leery about using contractors, they might also start to demand proof of insurance before hiring you.

Getting a license does more than let you maintain your profession. It helps you compete for new business and keep your expenses low. Go to iContractor.net to get started.