When we speak with multi-family building owners and managers about their process for replacing water heaters in building units, they often tell us that they handle this themselves through their on-staff or on-call maintenance staff.
What most don’t realize is that – unless their team members are licensed plumbers – these installations are not being performed legally, and several potential problems can arise when an unlicensed person installs a water heater.
While a maintenance person may have the skills to handle basic repairs and maintenance tasks, water heater installation along with other plumbing tasks requires specialized knowledge, training, and licensing. It’s essential to always comply with local regulations and manufacturer guidelines – especially when the installation is in a multi-family building.
Here are some of the potential problems that could arise if an unlicensed person installs a water heater:
- Safety Hazards. Improper installation of a water heater can pose significant safety risks, including gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning (gas heaters), electrical hazards (electric heaters), and water leaks. These hazards can lead to property damage, injuries, and even fatalities.
- Code Violations. Building codes and regulations dictate specific requirements for water heater installations, including proper venting, clearances, and safety devices such as pressure relief valves. An installation permit and inspection is required in most jurisdictions. An unlicensed installer may not be aware of or may disregard these requirements, leading to code violations and potential fines.
- Voided Warranties. Many manufacturers require water heaters to be installed by licensed professionals to maintain warranty coverage. If an unlicensed person installs the unit, the manufacturer may void the warranty, leaving the property owner responsible for repair or replacement costs.
- Performance Issues. Improperly installed water heaters may not operate efficiently or reliably. Common issues include inadequate ventilation, incorrect sizing, and poor connections, which can result in reduced performance, higher energy bills, and premature failure of the unit.
- Legal and Insurance Implications. If an installation performed by an unlicensed person leads to property damage, injuries, or code violations, the property owner may be held liable. Insurance companies may also refuse to cover damages resulting from unauthorized installations, leaving the property owner responsible for the costs.
- Resale and Inspection Issues. Improperly installed water heaters can become a liability when selling or inspecting a property. Buyers may request repairs or replacements, and inspectors may flag code violations, leading to delays and additional expenses.
To sum it up, hiring a licensed professional to install water heaters is essential to ensure safety, compliance with regulations, and proper functioning of the unit. Though installation by unlicensed individuals may offer lower upfront costs, the risks and potential consequences far outweigh any perceived savings.
