Studying & Certification With Apprenticeships In Plumbing

Plumbers are always in demand throughout the UK whatever the time of year. Although it's harder to find commercial work, there's a great deal of domestic business to pick up. We're always hearing of people who've had challenges finding a professional to sort out their plumbing emergencies. And with bargain kitchen units and bathroom suites from the likes of B&Q, householders are always on the lookout for decent trades-people to fit them. Consequently if you're considering a career change, you might well find that becoming a professional plumber fits the bill!

Completely FREE Research Report!

No matter what skills you start off with, the right training and qualifications will quickly launch you into your new career. To learn more about the various plumber training systems, read our independent review of the industry requirements - absolutely free of charge. There are many training companies offering plumbing courses in the UK, so you'll find the information really useful when comparing the benefits of each one.

Click now for your free e-book, and get a balanced view of what's needed. Then log on to this webpage again and request information from any of the colleges listed here. You could put it in your Favourites file to make it easier to find again.

Control Your Destiny...

A lot of people decide to get into plumbing so they can become self-employed and control their own destiny. In fact almost all of those entering the industry beyond their mid twenties work independently in private houses. It makes a lot of sense when you look at how much work is available, and how much money can be made when you've built your reputation.

Try to build a good rapport with your clients - they're more likely to speak well of you to others if you do. Your training will give you the technical know-how, but it's also important to use good people skills whenever you're around others. You just don't know where the next job's coming from... It's amazing how much work is lost through sloppy attitudes and general discourtesy.

Trades-people who work on commercial projects are generally employed daytime hours, Monday to Friday. However, plumbers working in the domestic market should expect to offer greater flexibility. Householders are often out at work themselves, and plumbers who are prepared to work some evenings and weekends can significantly boost their income.

A Job For Life

Skilled plumbers with the right certifications are set for life - people will always need your services. The work is very satisfying, as you're either seeing a job through from beginning to end, or solving problems for people when emergencies occur. There's also a lot of variety, as you work in different homes with different clients. Plus you get to choose to work you take on.

If you're going to set yourself up as a business, you'll have to learn a thing or two about costing out jobs. As well as your time, you have to include your overheads and any materials that will be needed. You might like to work out a system to account for all your fixed costs. Business management is included in the coursework with some commercial trainers.

What's The Next Step?

All industry recognised plumbing training courses lead to C&G (City & Guilds) certifications as a minimum. Teenagers straight out of school usually aim to combine a technical college course with commercial employment to complete NVQ certifications.

But adult career movers usually keep their old jobs whilst they study evenings and weekends on the new one. That's why so many private colleges have emerged, which cater for career changers who sometimes only need domestic training. Students will progress through their training quicker with commercial companies, so although the fees are more expensive, they're in a position to start earning money much faster.

Extra Skill-Sets to Consider

Your basic training will cover aspects such as hot and cold water systems, sanitation, health and safety and central heating. But if you increase your skill-set you can take on many more roles. Additional skills could be in plastering or tiling, basic electrical work or energy efficiency.

You don't have to take everything at once, but add more skills as you go along. Each job will be more cost effective, and leave more money in your pocket. There'll be no waiting around for bathroom fitters or tilers if you can do the work yourself - and the customer will be much less inconvenienced.

In conclusion, broad-based commercial plumbing courses are the quickest and most efficient route into the self-employed domestic market.