Licensed vs Unlicensed Heater Replacement: 5 Main Factors
Licensed vs Unlicensed Heater Replacement: 5 Main Factors
In Singapore, the installation and replacement of storage water heaters in residential properties are regulated by PUB to ensure compliance with safety standards and maintain high-quality workmanship.
Adhering to these regulations helps prevent water damage, ensures water quality, and safeguards homeowners from legal and financial risks. Below is a detailed comparison of the processes and implications of engaging licensed versus unlicensed handyman for storage heater replacements.
1. Compliance and Legality
Licensed plumbers are mandated by the Public Utilities Board (PUB), Singapore’s national water agency, to carry out or supervise the installation and replacement of storage water heaters.
This requirement falls under the Public Utilities Act and its subsidiary legislation. Hiring an unlicensed handyman is not only illegal but also carries severe penalties, including a fine of up to SGD 10,000 or imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both.
Licensed plumbers (LPs) are required to submit a Certificate of Satisfactory Completion (CSC) to PUB within seven days after the work is completed. Homeowners should retain a copy for their records, as it may be required by authorities or insurance companies when making a claim to prove that the work was carried out by a licensed professional.
High-power appliance connections to the circuit must be carried out or supervised by an EMA Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW).
Many recent fatal electrocution cases have been linked to water heaters, underscoring the importance of compliance.
Unlicensed individuals may offer lower rates and faster service, but their work is unlawful and carries significant risks. If an issue arises from an unlicensed installation, homeowners bear full responsibility for damages and may face legal consequences, particularly if the fault causes a fire that spreads to neighbouring properties.
2. Quality of Work
Licensed Plumbers (LPs) undergo rigorous training and certification by PUB to comply with strict technical and safety requirements.
They ensure that water heaters function efficiently and safely within the water supply system while adhering to water conservation and quality guidelines.
Unlicensed handyman may lack the necessary training and expertise, leading to poor installations that can result in water contamination, inefficiency, and potential safety hazards.
There have been cases where substandard work by unlicensed individuals has resulted in defects, leaks, and overcharging, causing long-term financial and safety issues for homeowners.
3. Accountability and Guarantees
A Certificate of Satisfactory Completion (CSC) is mandatory when a licensed plumber completes a water heater replacement, certifying that the work complies with statutory regulations. The plumber remains legally liable for the installation for the remainder of their career.
This certification provides homeowners with an additional layer of accountability and assurance that the installation meets all required safety and technical standards. It is also legally recognised by private and government institutions when submitting insurance claims in the event of an accident.
Additionally, licensed plumbers offer warranties on their work, providing homeowners with peace of mind and financial protection against potential future issues. In contrast, unlicensed workers may not provide guarantees, leaving homeowners vulnerable to additional costs for repairs or rectifications.
4. Insurance and Liability
Licensed plumbers typically carry insurance coverage, protecting homeowners from financial losses due to accidental damage during installation.
This insurance ensures that any property damage or personal injury caused by the installation process is covered.
On the other hand, hiring an unlicensed handyman means there is no insurance protection. If a faulty installation results in water damage, fire hazards, or electrical faults, homeowners bear the full financial and legal liability.
5. The Dangers of Unlicensed Work – A Tragic Incident
The severe risks associated with unlicensed work were tragically highlighted in a Straits Times report on 12 December 2020. An elderly couple and their son lost their lives in their Lakeside flat due to suspected electrocution linked to an improperly installed water heater.
The elderly man reportedly fell in the shower and was electrocuted. His wife suffered the same fate while attempting to assist him, and their son was also electrocuted when he tried to intervene. This heartbreaking incident underscores the importance of hiring licensed professionals for electrical and plumbing work to ensure safety and prevent fatal accidents.
Conclusion
The differences between hiring a licensed versus an unlicensed handyman for storage heater replacement are significant, affecting legality, compliance, workmanship quality, safety, and financial security. Engaging a licensed plumber is not only a legal requirement but also a wise investment to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality installation that protects both property and lives.
While unlicensed services may appear cost-effective in the short term, they pose severe legal, financial, and safety risks. Compliance with PUB regulations guarantees that homeowners receive certified, insured, and professional service, preventing costly mistakes and hazardous situations. Prioritising safety and professional standards over short-term savings is crucial for the well-being of homeowners and their families.
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