Why is it that some people find the idea of contacting a new plumber to do a job, just a little bit worrying? There have being a spate of documentaries on the TV and stories in the media about "Cowboy" plumbers, sad tales of people losing their money. Yes, there are rogues out there but in truth they are few and far between.
In case you want to become a plumber through apprenticeship, you will have to approach the local plumber's union, who can help you to find a professional plumber willing to hire an apprenticeship.
Some toilet repair valves do not take washers and therefore you cannot repair them. If you have a washerless shut-off valve that leaks it will need to be replaced. You will need: a propane torch, solder, flux, sandcloth, a wire fitting brush, a small section of copper pipe (most likely 3/4" I.D.), a slip coupling (again probably 3/4") and a shut-off valve. I would highly recommend installing a ball valve with a drain on it as opposed to a washer style valve. If you purchase a decent quality ball valve it will last a very long time.
The online plumbing course will give you the knowledge and skills to become an independent contractor. However, additional classes will help to enhance your entrepreneurial skills. It may include course related to management as Trustworthy plumber well as public relations.
Preventative care is what is needed here such as using commercial products for unclogging a drain and wrapping your pipes and having them insulated. You may also want to invest in drain covers for your drains to catch hair and grease before it becomes a problem that warrants the call to your Local plumber. If you have pipes outdoors that have hoses, before fall sets in, disconnect these hoses and bring them indoors. This is just some of the preventative maintenance that can be used.
The first step is to avoid anyone who knocks your door offering to do work for you. This is not how professional organisations tend to court businesses and, in most cases, the better professionals will have plenty of work to keep them going without the need to door-to-door.
Water can do more that just get everything wet. It can destroy walls, foundations, structure, flooring, and many other aspects of your home. Minimizing the damage by knowing where the water valves are located, keeping more water from harming more of your home, and having a plumber you can trust to fix your plumbing problem right and for a reasonable is key. We all have to deal with plumbing problems. Be prepared.