State plumbing guide · AL
Plumbing in Alabama
Alabama certifies plumbers and gas fitters through a state examining board, and plumbing contractors must meet International Plumbing Code standards. Heavy rain, clay soils and occasional freezes shape local repairs.
- Median home built
- 1987
- Built before 1980
- 41%
- Owner-occupied
- 71%
- Winter
- Occasional hard freezes
- General statewide rating
- Plumbing code
- IPC
- City guides
- 2
Housing figures: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 1-year (B25035, B25034).
Alabama city plumbing guides
How to check a plumber's license in Alabama
You must hold a valid certification from the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board to contract for or perform plumbing or gas fitting in Alabama. [1]
Which plumbing code applies in Alabama
Alabama's Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board requires certified plumbing contractors to meet International Plumbing Code standards; exams are based on the 2021 IPC and IFGC. [2]
Seasonal problems to plan for in Alabama
- Storm season
- Heavy rain: sewer backups and sump pump failures.
- Winter
- Hard freezes: protect exposed pipes, disconnect hoses. Frozen pipes.
How old Alabama's homes are
Statewide, the median home was built in 1987 and 41% of homes predate 1980. Homes like that were usually built with copper or CPVC supply, plastic drains, and in some homes gray polybutylene supply pipe. The city guides below show how much that varies within the state.
Alabama plumbing questions
How do I check a plumber's license in Alabama?
Verify the certification with the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board before work starts.
Which plumbing code applies in Alabama?
Certified plumbing contractors work to International Plumbing Code standards set by the Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board, and cities may adopt newer editions locally.
Sources (3)
- U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 1-year (B25035, B25034) · checked 2026-10-01
- Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board · checked 2026-10-01
- Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board, Administrative Code 720-X-7 · checked 2026-10-01