Utah Plumbing Compliance Resource Center

A Public Resource of the Utah Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association (UPHCA)

Understanding Utah Plumbing Laws • Protecting Consumers • Promoting Licensed Professionals

Purpose

The Utah Plumbing Compliance Resource Center is designed to help:

Property Owners
Property Managers
Apartment Managers
Building Maintenance Personnel
Handymen
General Contractors
Homeowners
Licensed Plumbing Contractors

Understand Utah’s plumbing licensing requirements and the limits of unlicensed plumbing work.

This resource is intended for educational purposes and summarizes Utah statutes and administrative rules. It is not legal advice.

Can a Handyman Perform This Plumbing Work?

✅ Generally Allowed

A handyman or maintenance person may perform limited repair work when it qualifies as minor plumbing work incidental to repair, including:

Repair an existing faucet
Repair toilet internal components
Repair an existing garbage disposal
Repair existing plumbing fixtures
Repair leaks at fixtures
Repair residential plumbing fixtures provided NO modification is made to:
- Culinary water piping
- Soil piping
- Waste piping
- Vent piping
- Gas appliances
- Combustion systems

Authority

Utah Code §58-55-305(1)(k)(i)

Utah Code §58-55-305 – Exemptions from Licensure

Utah Administrative Rule R156-55c-102(2)(a)

Utah Plumber Licensing Rule R156-55c-102

The administrative rule defines “minor plumbing work that is incidental” as repair of residential plumbing appurtenances, fixtures, or appliances, provided no modifications are made to specified piping or gas/combustion systems.

Work That Requires a Licensed Plumbing Contractor

Generally, the following work should be performed by a licensed plumbing contractor:

Plumbing Fixtures

Install toilets
Install sinks
Install lavatories
Install showers
Install bathtubs
Install dishwashers requiring plumbing
Install ice-maker water lines

Plumbing Systems

Modify water piping
Modify drain piping
Modify waste piping
Modify vent piping
Install new plumbing systems

Water Heaters

Utah Administrative Rule specifically excludes:

Installation of water heaters
Replacement of water heaters

from the incidental plumbing exemption.

Gas Systems

Unlicensed individuals may not modify:

Gas piping
Gas appliances
Combustion systems

The Maintenance Exception

Many property owners misunderstand the maintenance exemption.

Under Utah law:

“Maintenance” means

Routine actions to:

Repair
Replace
Refinish
Preserve

a component of an existing structure in its original condition.

Maintenance does NOT include:

Alteration of structural components
Modification of structural components
Any work involving an electrical system
Any work involving a plumbing system

This means that simply calling work “maintenance” does not exempt plumbing work from Utah’s licensing laws. Plumbing system work remains subject to the Construction Trades Licensing Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a handyman repair a leaking faucet?

Generally yes, provided no piping or plumbing system is modified.

Can a handyman replace a water heater?

No.

Utah Administrative Rule specifically excludes installation and replacement of water heaters from the incidental plumbing exemption.

Can apartment maintenance personnel perform plumbing work?

Maintenance personnel are subject to the same statutory limitations. The maintenance exception does not create a blanket exemption for plumbing system work.

Does the $7,000 exemption allow unlicensed plumbing work?

No. Utah Code §58-55-305(1)(h) makes clear that, even on projects below the statutory dollar threshold, plumbing work involving a plumbing system must be performed by a licensed plumbing contractor. Work involving only a component of the system (such as a faucet or toilet) may qualify under the limited statutory exemption, depending on the facts.

Administrative Enforcement

The Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) has authority to investigate allegations of unlicensed practice under the Occupational and Professional Licensing Act and the Construction Trades Licensing Act.

Depending on the circumstances, enforcement may involve:

Administrative citations
Civil penalties
Cease-and-desist or stop-work orders
Disciplinary action against licensees
Insurance and liability consequences

Note: Both the individual performing unlicensed work and, in some situations, the person or business that hires or directs the unlicensed work may face legal consequences. The specific outcome depends on the applicable statutes and the facts of each case. UPHCA recommends consulting DOPL or legal counsel for case-specific questions.

Official Utah References

UPHCA Pipeline Podcast Features Greg Hand on Backflow Training, Certification, and Water Safety

Backflow training is not just another class in the plumbing industry.

It protects drinking water. It helps contractors understand cross-connection risks. It gives plumbers, landscapers, irrigators, municipal workers, and water professionals the knowledge they need to test and understand backflow prevention assemblies correctly.

In this episode of the UPHCA Pipeline Podcast, the Utah Plumbing Heating Contractors Association sat down with Greg Hand, founder of Backflow Training Services and longtime backflow instructor now connected with the UPHCA Academy.

Greg has been called the “grandfather of backflow” in Utah, and after hearing his history, it is easy to understand why.

The conversation covered how Backflow Training Services began, what students experience during certification week, why hands-on training matters, how enforcement has changed in Utah, and why backflow certification continues to grow in importance across the state.

How Greg Hand Got Started in Backflow

Greg’s backflow story started where many strong trade stories begin: in the plumbing field.

As a plumber and instructor, he saw backflow as part of the trade. While teaching plumbing apprenticeship at Salt Lake Community College, Greg was introduced to the seriousness of backflow prevention and the role it plays in protecting public drinking water.

From there, the work grew.

He began teaching backflow concepts through Utah Valley Community College and Rural Water of Utah. Eventually, a need became clear: most backflow testers were concentrated in the Salt Lake Valley, and more training access was needed elsewhere.

That need helped launch what became Backflow Training Services.

Greg’s first class was held at the Quail Creek Water Treatment Plant near the Hurricane and St. George area in 1998. He started with one training stand and four assemblies. Over time, he collected used backflow preventers, repaired them, rebuilt them, and turned them into practical training equipment.

What started small became a major part of backflow certification training in Utah and beyond.

Backflow Training Services and the UPHCA Academy

Backflow Training Services is now part of the UPHCA Academy, creating a stronger home for backflow education and hands-on training.

That matters because backflow training is not something students can fully understand from a textbook alone.

Students need to see assemblies. They need to test them. They need to work through faults. They need to understand what can go wrong and how to identify it.

The Academy’s backflow lab gives students access to training stands, test equipment, classroom instruction, practical lab time, and experienced instructors who understand both the theory and the field reality.

Greg explained that the Academy acquired Backflow Training Services and that additional stands have been built to support growing training needs, including the St. George lab.

That expansion matters for Southern Utah.

Backflow training access in St. George helps support workers not only in Washington County, but also nearby areas of Nevada and Arizona where ABPA certification may be useful.

For contractors, water professionals, landscapers, irrigation workers, and municipal employees, having regional access to backflow training can reduce travel time and make certification more practical.

What Students Learn During Backflow Certification Week

One of the strongest parts of the podcast was Greg’s breakdown of what a backflow certification class actually looks like.

The class begins on Monday with classroom instruction. Students go through the manual and learn core backflow concepts, including:

What backflow is
Back siphonage
Back pressure
Thermal expansion
Direct and indirect connections
High hazard and low hazard conditions
Backflow prevention assemblies and devices

This foundation matters because students must understand the concepts before they can test assemblies correctly.

On Tuesday, students move into the lab. They begin learning how to test all four assemblies step by step, without faults added.

On Wednesday, the lab work gets more challenging. Faults are added to the assemblies so students can learn to identify problems like leaky shutoff valves and leaky check valves.

On Thursday, students spend time practicing and preparing for the exam. Greg also discusses test anxiety, which he treats as a real part of the certification process. That is a practical detail many training programs overlook.

On Friday, students take the ABPA exam. The written exam includes 100 questions, and students need a 70% score to pass that portion. The practical exam requires students to test all four assemblies without instruction, while trained ABPA proctors observe. The practical portion must be performed correctly.

This structure gives students both classroom knowledge and hands-on testing experience.

That combination is the point.

Backflow work requires understanding, accuracy, and confidence.

ABPA Certification and Utah Certification

Greg also explained the difference between ABPA certification and Utah certification.

Students who pass the class and exam receive ABPA certification, which is recognized nationally. For those testing in Utah, there is also a Utah certification process and certification number used on backflow test reports.

This distinction matters for people who work across state lines.

A tester working in Utah needs to follow Utah’s certification requirements. A tester working in another state may rely on ABPA certification depending on that state’s requirements.

For anyone planning to test, inspect, or work with backflow prevention assemblies, it is important to understand both the national certification and state-specific requirements.

That is one reason formal training matters.

Recertification Every Three Years

Backflow certification is not a one-time event.

Greg explained that certification is valid for three years. After that, testers need to recertify.

Backflow Training Services offers recertification classes that begin later in the week and help returning testers get back up to speed before taking the same written and practical exams on Friday.

This is important because testers may go years between exams, and even experienced professionals can benefit from review, practice, and time in the lab.

The practical test requires precision. The written test requires a solid understanding of backflow concepts. Recertification helps keep testers sharp and current.

Why Hazard Level Matters

The podcast also covered an important concept for landscapers, excavators, irrigators, and contractors who work around backflow prevention: hazard level.

Greg explained that one of the first questions anyone should ask before selecting or installing an assembly is:

What is the hazard?

A high hazard condition can create serious health risk. A low hazard condition may still matter, but the risk is different.

From there, contractors and water professionals need to consider whether back pressure can occur. The type of hazard and the possibility of back pressure help determine which backflow prevention assembly or device may be appropriate.

That is not something to guess at.

The water purveyor often plays a key role in determining requirements and sending annual testing notices. The certified tester performs the test and submits the report so the water purveyor can verify that the water system is being protected.

This is exactly why backflow education is important.

The work is technical. The stakes are high. The details matter.

Backflow Enforcement Is Increasing in Utah

Greg also noted that backflow enforcement has increased significantly in recent years.

He attributed much of that change to greater emphasis on backflow administration among water purveyors. As more water purveyors comply with backflow program requirements, more assemblies are being identified, tested, and brought into regular reporting processes.

That means more demand for trained and certified backflow testers.

Greg mentioned that he used to teach only a few classes each year. Now, classes are held monthly, and sometimes more than once per month.

That growth reflects a real shift in the industry.

Backflow prevention is not a side issue. It is becoming a more visible and enforced part of protecting drinking water systems.

For plumbers, irrigation professionals, landscapers, municipal workers, and maintenance professionals, backflow certification can be a valuable skill and service area.

Training Built From Decades of Experience

When asked what sets this training apart, Greg pointed to experience.

He has spent nearly 40 years teaching, observing, correcting mistakes, improving instruction, and refining the way students learn backflow testing.

That experience shows up in the way the class is structured.

Students are not just rushed through information. They are taught the concepts, taken into the lab, shown the assemblies, given practice time, exposed to faults, and prepared for the pressure of testing.

Greg also talked about relating to students in a way they can understand.

Good instruction is not just about knowing the material. It is about teaching it in a way students can absorb, practice, and apply.

That is especially important in the trades, where classroom learning has to connect directly to what happens in the field.

A Permanent Home for Backflow Training

Before Backflow Training Services became part of the Academy, Greg moved equipment from location to location.

Training stands, hoses, equipment, and materials had to be loaded, transported, set up, tested, torn down, drained, and stored again.

That created a significant amount of time, labor, and logistics around every class.

Having a more permanent home through the UPHCA Academy changes that.

Students can come to a dedicated training environment. Instructors can work from an established lab. Equipment can stay set up and ready. The program can operate with more consistency.

That is good for students, instructors, and the industry.

It also helps UPHCA strengthen its role in workforce development and technical training.

Why This Matters for Utah’s Plumbing and Water Industries

Backflow prevention protects public drinking water.

That alone makes the work important.

But this episode also shows something bigger: the trades depend on people who are willing to teach, train, build equipment, answer questions, and pass knowledge forward.

Greg Hand’s work through Backflow Training Services has helped train backflow testers across Utah and beyond. The UPHCA Academy now helps carry that work forward with a dedicated training space and growing access in both Northern and Southern Utah.

For contractors and workers, backflow certification can create new opportunities.

For water purveyors, it helps support compliance and public safety.

For homeowners and businesses, it helps protect drinking water systems.

For the trade, it helps raise the standard of knowledge and professionalism.

That is exactly the kind of work UPHCA exists to support.

Learn More About Backflow Training

Anyone interested in certification or recertification can learn more through Backflow Training Services.

Those interested in broader trade education can visit the UPHCA Academy.

Contractors who want to stay connected to Utah’s plumbing, heating, HVAC, and mechanical trade community can learn more about UPHCA membership.

Backflow training is technical, practical, and important.

And thanks to instructors like Greg Hand, students have a clearer path to learning the work, passing the exam, and helping protect water systems across Utah.

Internal Links Used

At the UPHCA annual spring conference in St. George, the UPHCA Pipeline Podcast sat down with Trent Schmid from Mountainland Supply to talk about contractor relationships, industry support, supplier challenges, and the value of staying connected inside Utah’s plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical trades.

The conversation took place during a busy few days at conference, with training, networking, golf, a bike ride, and other events bringing contractors, suppliers, vendors, and association members together.

That matters because the trades are built on more than materials, bids, and job schedules.

They are built on relationships.

A good supplier relationship can save a contractor time, reduce headaches, support better project planning, and help crews get what they need when they need it. For many Utah plumbing and mechanical contractors, that kind of relationship becomes a major part of how work gets done.

Mountainland Supply has been a longtime supporter of UPHCA, UPHCA Academy, and the contractors who make up the Utah plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical industry.

Watch the UPHCA Pipeline Podcast Episode

Mountainland Supply’s Role in the Utah Trade Community

Mountainland Supply has been a sponsor of UPHCA for many years.

During the podcast, Trent explained that the company benefits from the relationships built through the association and the conference. Over the years, those relationships have connected Mountainland Supply with contractors, sponsors, vendors, and people throughout the industry.

That is one of the biggest values of association involvement.

It creates a place where business relationships can grow naturally. Contractors meet suppliers. Vendors meet business owners. People trade ideas, talk through problems, and build trust over time.

In the trades, trust matters.

A contractor does not want to wonder whether materials will show up, whether the order is right, or whether a supplier understands the project. They want a supply partner who knows the job, knows the schedule, and can help keep work moving.

That is where long-term supplier relationships become valuable.

Contractors, vendors, and industry partners who want to build those relationships should stay connected through UPHCA events and membership opportunities.

Supporting UPHCA Academy and the Next Generation

One of the strongest parts of the conversation was the recognition of Mountainland Supply’s support for UPHCA Academy.

UPHCA Academy depends on support from members, contractors, suppliers, instructors, employers, and industry partners. As a nonprofit school, the Academy does not operate like a large state-funded institution. It relies heavily on tuition, donations, and support from companies that care about training the next generation.

Mountainland Supply has helped the Academy by donating plumbing supplies, contributing money, and supporting practical lab work for students.

That support shows up in real training.

When students work on disposals, sinks, toilets, pipe assignments, and other hands-on learning projects, materials have to come from somewhere. Suppliers like Mountainland help make those labs possible.

That is not just a nice gesture.

It directly supports workforce development.

Utah needs trained plumbers, HVAC professionals, and mechanical workers. Those people do not appear by accident. They are built through training, mentorship, jobsite experience, and industry support.

When suppliers help schools like UPHCA Academy, they are helping strengthen the future of the trade.

Companies that want to support training, student development, and the future workforce can learn more about how to support UPHCA as a sponsor.

UPHCA Academy Is Expanding Into HVAC

The podcast also touched on a major Academy update: UPHCA is launching its HVAC program.

The plumbing program already has more than 250 students, and the Academy is now beginning to build out the HVAC and mechanical side of its training.

That expansion matters for Utah contractors.

Plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical systems are all part of the skilled trade workforce Utah needs. As the state continues to grow, contractors need trained workers who understand practical systems, jobsite expectations, code, safety, and hands-on work.

UPHCA Academy’s expansion into HVAC is part of a larger effort to build a stronger mechanical trades training pipeline.

Mountainland Supply also serves multiple markets connected to that world, including plumbing, HVAC, waterworks, pumps, drilling, irrigation, and other product categories.

That overlap makes supplier support even more important.

As training expands, students need access to real materials, real systems, and real industry relationships.

Anyone interested in the Academy’s mechanical training expansion can learn more about HVAC training in Utah.

A Supplier With Multiple Trade Verticals

Mountainland Supply serves several trade categories, including:

Plumbing
HVAC
Waterworks
Pumps
Drilling
Irrigation
Related product markets

The company also serves multiple regions, including Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Phoenix, Denver, and Wichita, Kansas.

For contractors, that range matters because many jobs are not isolated to one narrow category. A plumbing contractor may have needs that touch waterworks or mechanical products. An HVAC contractor may need a supplier who understands broader jobsite requirements. A contractor working on larger projects may need help planning materials across multiple phases.

A supplier with broad product knowledge can help contractors work more efficiently.

Pricing Volatility and Supply Challenges

The conversation also covered one of the ongoing challenges in the supply world: pricing volatility.

Trent mentioned that copper pricing and precious metal pricing have been moving around, which creates challenges in the wholesale industry.

Contractors feel that too.

When a contractor is bidding a larger project, pricing volatility can make planning harder. Material costs affect bids, margins, timelines, and customer expectations. A strong supplier relationship can help contractors stay informed and plan smarter.

That does not mean every pricing problem disappears.

It does mean contractors have someone to work with when material costs change, product availability shifts, or a job requires more coordination.

How Suppliers Help Contractors With Larger Projects

For larger projects, contractors often need more than a simple product pickup.

They may need to bring a supply list to a supplier, talk through the project, coordinate product timing, and plan what materials are needed and when.

Mountainland Supply helps contractors bid projects, land projects, order product, and facilitate materials based on project needs.

That can be a major help for plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical contractors who are working on schools, commercial jobs, public projects, or larger construction schedules.

A strong supplier helps reduce the amount of running around a contractor has to do.

That lets contractors focus on what they do best: managing crews, completing work, serving customers, and keeping projects moving.

Why Contractor-Supplier Relationships Matter

One of the most practical lessons from the podcast is simple:

If a working relationship is strong, contractors often stop shopping around for every single item.

That does not mean price does not matter.

It means reliability matters too.

When a supplier understands a contractor’s needs, communicates well, helps with project planning, and consistently supports the work, that relationship becomes valuable.

Good supplier relationships can help contractors:

Save time
Reduce hassle
Plan larger projects
Coordinate materials
Avoid unnecessary running around
Build confidence in product support
Keep jobs moving more smoothly

For busy contractors, those benefits add up.

How Contractors Can Connect With Mountainland Supply

Contractors can reach Mountainland Supply through Mountainland Supply.

The company has branches throughout the Wasatch Front and in St. George, with multiple trade categories and showrooms for higher-end fixtures and products.

The podcast also noted that Mountainland has plumbing, waterworks, and HVAC presence in St. George, along with a newer irrigation branch opening in the area.

For Utah contractors, that kind of local branch access can be useful when planning projects, sourcing materials, or building a stronger supplier relationship.

Why UPHCA Membership Matters

The conversation also turned toward a bigger question:

Why should contractors be part of UPHCA?

Trent pointed to several practical reasons, including sharing best practices, building friendships, accessing training opportunities, and connecting with business-related resources.

That is a good summary of what association membership can do when contractors actually participate.

UPHCA is not just a logo or a line item.

It is a place for contractors, suppliers, vendors, educators, and industry partners to connect. It provides opportunities for training, Utah continuing education classes, legislative work, legal awareness, vendor relationships, and business support.

For contractors, that can mean:

Better relationships with suppliers
More access to industry information
More training opportunities
More connection with other contractors
More visibility inside the trade
A stronger collective voice on industry issues

UPHCA currently has more than 250 contractors involved, and the association is continuing to grow.

That growth matters because the larger and more active the association becomes, the stronger the voice of Utah’s plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical trades becomes.

If your company wants more connection, more industry visibility, and a stronger voice in Utah’s trade community, now is a good time to join UPHCA.

UPHCA Advocacy and Industry Support

Supplier relationships are one part of a strong trade community. Advocacy is another.

UPHCA works to keep Utah plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, and subcontractor professionals connected to the conversations that affect their businesses. That includes licensing, regulation, training, legislative issues, and the future of the trade.

Contractors who want to understand what UPHCA is working on can read more about UPHCA advocacy.

Conferences Still Matter

It is easy to think conferences are just another event on the calendar.

But the conversation with Mountainland Supply shows why they still matter.

At a conference, contractors do not just sit in classes. They meet suppliers. They talk to vendors. They learn about new opportunities. They build relationships that may help them later on a job, a bid, a training need, or a business problem.

The UPHCA spring conference in St. George included training, networking, golf, a bike ride, ATV opportunities, and a casino night.

Those events may sound casual, but they serve a serious purpose.

They get people in the same room.

And in the trades, getting people in the same room still matters.

Contractors and suppliers who want to stay involved should watch for upcoming UPHCA events.

Final Takeaway

The UPHCA Pipeline Podcast conversation with Trent Schmid from Mountainland Supply was a good reminder that the plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical industry depends on strong relationships.

Contractors need reliable suppliers.

Students need hands-on materials.

Training programs need industry support.

Associations need active members and sponsors.

And the trade gets stronger when contractors, suppliers, vendors, educators, and business owners stay connected.

Mountainland Supply has been a strong supporter of UPHCA, UPHCA Academy, and the broader Utah contractor community.

That kind of support matters.

If you are a Utah plumbing, HVAC, or mechanical contractor, the message is simple:

Build the right relationships. Get involved. Show up. Use the resources around you.

That is how the industry gets stronger.

Take Action

If you are part of Utah’s plumbing, HVAC, or mechanical industry, UPHCA gives you a place to connect, train, support the next generation, and help strengthen the trade.

Key Takeaways

Mountainland Supply has been a longtime sponsor and supporter of UPHCA.
Supplier relationships matter because they help contractors save time, plan jobs, coordinate materials, and reduce hassle.
Mountainland Supply has supported UPHCA Academy with materials, donations, and practical lab support.
UPHCA Academy has more than 250 plumbing students and is expanding into HVAC training.
Mountainland Supply serves plumbing, HVAC, waterworks, pumps, drilling, irrigation, and other trade markets.
Pricing volatility, especially around copper and precious metals, continues to be a challenge in the wholesale supply space.
Contractors can work with suppliers like Mountainland on larger project bids, material lists, and coordinated product ordering.
UPHCA membership creates value through best-practice sharing, training opportunities, supplier relationships, legislative work, and industry connection.
Conferences matter because they bring contractors, vendors, suppliers, sponsors, and industry partners together.
Strong trade relationships help strengthen Utah’s plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical industry.

Why You Should Be Cautious with Plumbing Companies

That Advertises Heavily on the Radio and TV

(Look at what the UPHCA is doing on Social Media and other outreach)

You’ve probably heard them: plumbing companies with catchy jingles, constant radio ads, and frequent TV appearances promising “fast,” “affordable,” or “emergency” service. They sound trustworthy. But behind the polished commercials, there’s often a business model that puts sales over service, and that should give you pause.

Here’s what you need to know.

Advertising-Heavy Companies Are Often Commission-Driven

Many of the plumbing companies flooding your airwaves are owned by out-of-state corporate firms or venture capital investors. Their goal isn’t just to fix your plumbing problem; it’s to grow profits as fast as possible.

To do that, they often:

Pay plumbers on commission
Set aggressive daily sales targets
Train techs to upsell more expensive services
That $49 drain cleaning? It’s a loss leader—a way to get in the door so they can convince you to replace your water heater, re-pipe your home, or sign up for costly service contracts.

You’re Paying for the Advertising – Not Better Service

Running a constant ad campaign costs tens of thousands of dollars each month. That cost doesn’t disappear; it’s built into the price you pay, whether or not you needed the work.

Would you rather pay for flashy ads or for a plumber who does honest work at a fair rate?

Pressure Tactics Are Common

We’ve heard too many stories of homeowners, especially seniors, who felt rushed or manipulated:

“They said my pipes were a hazard and had to be replaced immediately. It would’ve cost me $4,000. I got a second opinion and was told everything was fine.”

— Homeowner, Layton, UT

If a technician says you need an urgent fix but can’t show proof or explain clearly, walk away and get a second opinion.

How to Protect Yourself

Before hiring any plumbing service company:

Check if they’re locally owned
Verify they are licensed by the State of Utah (dopl.utah.gov)
Ask if their plumbers are paid on commission
Get all estimates in writing before work begins
Choose companies that are UPHCA members – committed to ethics and professionalism, locally owned and operated!

Support Local, Ethical Plumbers

At UPHCA, we represent Utah-based, licensed plumbing professionals who don’t rely on high-pressure sales or misleading ads. Our members are committed to doing the job right, not inflating your bill.

Before you let anyone touch your home’s plumbing, visit:

utahplumbing.org

Find trusted, licensed, and locally owned plumbing companies that prioritize service above all else. Be very careful.

Did You Know Video Series

Bad Actor and How to Avoid Case Study: Action Plumbing, Heating, Air, & Electric

The Case Study

If you’re familiar with Action Man and Action Dog you may have heard they’ve landed in hot water recently. A number of exposes were ran regarding Action Plumbing, Heating, Air, & Electric and their nefarious business practices after enough complaints were brought to the attention of DOPL (Division of Professional Licensing) and the DCP (Division Consumer Protections).

Just to give you an idea as to how big a deal this is, DOPL is the governing body to which all plumbers and contractors must be licensed- think of it like the DMV for running a trades based business.

These allegations, published by reliable sources like KUTV, local Fox News 13, and KSL have all run stories about Action’s business practices. But even before then there were signs. Wildly swinging 1 and 5 star reviews on Google and Yelp and high pressure sales techniques were all tell-tale signs that it was only a matter of time until they were caught. It’s even likely that there are more instances of these dishonest business practices than what’s been reported.

The tricky part is discerning who is and who is not a company that works in good faith. Both kinds of companies have access to the same marketing tools and techniques. In fact, Action kept a score of 4 stars or higher on Google and Yelp. But there were warning signs even from the start and this post will help you better identify what those signs are and avoid financial stress working with companies that are let into your home.

In one of the instances mentioned in the lawsuit, an HVAC technician quoted the homeowner over $10,000 and claimed the unit was “Beyond repairing”. While instances of unsavory business practices exist everywhere*, there technically is not anything illegal about overestimating the price for a job.

But it brings us to the first of two tips we have regarding how to protect yourself from these tactics.

Get a second opinion – Most, if not all, of the Utah base of HVAC and Plumbing Businesses offer a free second opinion. Take them up on that. It’s not bad manners to turn a sales person down and explain that you would like to get another opinion from another trusted source, in fact it is your right as a consumer and the protector of your home to do so.

*Hello markdown items whose prices were raised just before the markdown so they’re still sold at full price, a tactic we all know and hate!

Allegedly Fraudulent Behavior

But as for outright illegal business practices, the third district court has alleged that an employee of Action took a check out of a customer’s checkbook, filled it in, and asked the elderly woman with dementia to sign it…for $50,000.

Another instance, also mentioned in the same lawsuit, alleges that another elderly woman with dementia was charged over $20,000 for about $50 worth of decorative switches.

This is fraudulent behavior that preys on the more vulnerable members of society, and quite frankly it is sick. What’s worse is that this behavior was allegedly rewarded within the company over completing work safely and competently for their customers. Which itself also led to a few instances of shoddy work that put lives at risk.

We may be focused on Action right now but that’s due to the company’s well documented, egregious, and systematic abuse of their customers. Don’t mistake us, there are more companies out there that utilize the same tactics, including paying employees for upselling and commissioned work. Our tactics are applicable to any company you work for. While they may not cover every single tactic that’s being used right now, they can go a long way towards protecting yourself and your home.

As we mentioned before, getting a second opinion on any amount of work being done on your home is a good idea. If the first company you called is honest and believes in their work, they know a second opinion by another similarly honest company will back up their estimate. Many companies in and around Utah employ a “Free Second Opinion” Special for this exact reason, so don’t be afraid to shop around.

Online Research – Conducting online research for a company can be difficult. Chances are, if you’re reading this article, you’ve gone to google and typed in “good plumbers near me” and selected one of the first results that popped up- also known as how search engines work. But as we all know, sometimes those results can be cooked. Likewise…

Reviews online can be similarly deceiving. Technically speaking, Action Plumbing has a 4.5 star rating on Google with over 5,000 reviews. On its face, that’s a really good rating, not too good that you suspect them of really cooking their reviews, certainly must be a mark of good quality. But take a closer look next time. Look at the discrepancy between 5 and 1 star. Are there reviews between the two? Or is it just one or the other? That can be indicative of the experiences you could experience, beware.

Remember, there are some companies that exist to siphon as much money as possible from their customers. A few ways to avoid this is by doing additional research into the company via DOPL and their Reviews, and don’t forget to cash in on the ever present “Free Second Opinion” coupon that exists.

Skip the Nonsense!

It can be difficult to differentiate between the great companies and the poor ones, especially when you search on google. Just because someone is better at marketing does not mean that they are a better company to work with; even crap rises to the top.
Take the guesswork out of the search and use UtahPlumbing.org.

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“Buy a tankless Water Heater and get a Free Water Softener! We will clean any drain for this super low price! Purchase this Item and we will give you $2000 off!”

What’s that old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.”

I’m Vic Bachman, owner of Mike Bachman Plumbing in Ogden, Utah. If you have heard these ads and think that they are too good to be true. I would agree with you. Nothing is free and a company can’t send someone to your home for less than they are paying the person to be there. These are bait and switch tactics that are hurting the public and destroying the reputation of trades in general and making all tradesmen look bad.

Over the years I have been called out to numerous calls for a second opinion and have been shocked at what I have learned. Just recently I was called out to give a bid on a Tankless water heater. After giving the customer the price, she was amazed at the cost. She said she had another company come out and gave them a price for a tankless heater with a free water softener for a little over $15,000 dollars. My Price to install a Tankless heater in her home and for what needed to be done was $6160, and a top-of-the-line lifetime warranty water softener was $3430 for a total of $9590 a savings of $5410 and she was paying for and getting a better water softener. Another job we were called to inspect a drain line that another company came to clean for $29 and then told the customer that they couldn’t get their cable through the drain and showed them a video of a broken sewer line. They then quoted them a price of over $25,000 to reline the drain. The customer said they were very pushy salesmen and used multiple scare tactics to get her to sign. Luckily her daughter came over and called us before the other company came to do the work. We went out to the home and within an hour were able to run our cable through the drain and video the line. Our video showed no problems with the drain. There were no breaks or problems that required relining. All for only $397 yes, it is more than $29 but it was a lot cheaper than $25,000. I have had multiple calls just like this. (Each job is different and prices may very)

I feel as a licensed professional and as a responsible business owner it is my responsibility to warn you about these companies and the tactics they are using. Some of these companies are owned by the same corporations. They are buying up small local companies and keeping their names and then still claim to be locally owned and operated and that they have been in business for x number of years when they are just using the name and dates of the original company, and the old owner is longer involved. They also own multiple companies so when you think you are getting multiple bids you may be using the same company and are just getting bids from the same company with a different name who already knows the price the other gave you.

To get information on this I would suggest visiting https://uphca.net/2023/03/30/locally-owned-operated/ This is an independent site for Utah Contractors trying to protect you and the integrity of Utah owned businesses.

Please do your homework before you buy. If these companies are offering $2000 off a product, then that price was way too high to begin with and it probably still is after the discount. Companies must make money to stay in business and they can’t do that by giving away free items. Don’t let their high-pressure salesman get you to sign. If you must sign up right now or you will lose the deal, then there is something wrong with the deal. Ask to see their license and make sure they are a Licensed Master, Journeyman or Apprentice in the trade they are performing. You can also check if they are licensed on The Department of Professional licensing website. https://dopl.utah.gov/ all you need is their First and Last name. Click on Licensing and then Verify License and add their name and trade. If they have only an apprentice license, ask where their journeyman is. There are jobs that apprentices can do on their own but a tankless water heater, drain line relining or home rewiring are not one of them. They are apprentices for a reason, and they need supervision. If they claim they are a Trained Technician, then it means that the company they work for are not following the laws and they shouldn’t be installing anything in your home. If they work for an all-in-one company (Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical) then make sure they are licensed for the job they are doing. You don’t want a Plumber to rewire your home or vice versa. There are reasons you must be an apprentice for 4 years before you can be a journeyman.

Our company Vision here at Mike Bachman Plumbing is to “Improve the Lives of everyone we come in contact with.” I hope this message helps you and keeps you safe.

Vic Bachman

President and owner of Mike Bachman Plumbing Inc.

Utah Master plumber License # 155941-5518 and Contractor # 337962-5501

Locally Owned & Operated, Family owned Plumbing Company and is member of the Utah Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association (UPHCA). UPHCA Members are Qualified companies that are your neighbors, members of our community that are NOT owned by big corporate, out of state venture capitalist that sign a Code of Integrity. You can find these companies throughout the State by going to www.utahplumbing.org.

Action Plumbing Cited by DOPL & Consumer Protection: Why It Matters for Utah Homeowners

Recently, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric has been cited by both the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) and the Division of Consumer Protection for violations that raise concerns for homeowners across the state. These citations highlight why consumers should be cautious when selecting a plumbing or HVAC service provider—and why supporting locally owned and operated businesses is more important than ever.

What Happened?

The citations issued by DOPL and the Division of Consumer Protection suggest that Action Plumbing has engaged in practices that may not align with the ethical and professional standards expected in the industry. While the details of the violations are publicly available through state records, the key takeaway is that Utah residents must be aware of who they’re trusting with their homes.

Why This Matters

Not all plumbing and HVAC companies operate with the same level of integrity. Some prioritize aggressive sales tactics over customer service, while others cut corners that can lead to costly repairs down the road. The UPHCA (Utah Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association) exists to support and promote ethical, professional, and community-driven service providers who live and work right here in Utah. A great way to find those trusted service providers is www.utahplumbing.org.

Supporting Local, Ethical Contractors

UPHCA represents locally owned and operated plumbing and mechanical companies—the businesses that are our neighbors and friends. These professionals adhere to a strict code of ethics, ensuring that homeowners receive honest, high-quality service without the high-pressure sales tactics or questionable practices that have led to citations like the ones issued to Action Plumbing.

When you choose a UPHCA-affiliated contractor, you’re not just hiring a service provider—you’re supporting a trusted, community-based professional who stands behind their work and is accountable to both their customers and industry peers.

How to Protect Yourself as a Consumer

If you’re in need of plumbing, heating, or mechanical services, consider these steps to ensure you’re working with a reputable contractor:

✅ Check for Proper Licensing – Always verify that the company and its technicians are licensed with DOPL.
✅ Use www.utahplumbing.org – Our members are committed to ethical practices and quality workmanship.
✅ Read Reviews & Ask for Referrals – A strong reputation in the community speaks volumes.
✅ Beware of High-Pressure Sales – Ethical companies focus on solutions, not upselling unnecessary services.

The Bottom Line

The recent citations against Action Plumbing serve as a reminder that not all service providers are created equal. By choosing a local, UPHCA-affiliated contractor, you can trust that you’re receiving honest, professional service from a company that truly cares about its customers and the community.

If you’re looking for a trusted plumbing or HVAC professional, check out our list of UPHCA member companies—Utah’s best in the business.