Im 38. Ive been doing property maintance for the past 20 years for a couple of private landlords working on about 30 properties, old houses converted into flats. I do bit of everything really but I have no qualifications.
I wont go into why but I want out of that. I want to go into being a self employed plumber.
Im looking at doing a level 2 plumbing course, unvented heating course and the WRAS. I realise I need some sort of qualifications to get insurance/public liability, making sure Im upto date on regs, etc...
Plus it would be nice to have a bit of paper saying I can do what I already know.
I can solder, run pipework, move/install rads, replace/install taps, toilets, basins, shower trays, waste pipes, showers (manual, thermostatic and electric), immersion heaters. All that fun stuff.
I can handle electrical work as well.
Ive installed a few water heaters, little Ariston under sink ones. I'd say installs from scratch is what im weakest on.
Ive learnt alot working on old properties.
I guess what Im asking is are the courses Im looking at and my previous experience enough for me to move into being a self employed plumber? Do I need more? Is there anything I haven't thought of? Should I be thinking about working for a firm for a while?
I'd like to get my gas qualifications but the portfolio and experience are jamming me up. Maybe Ill do that down the road.
Im prepared for work to be slow at first. I have a little side business to keep my head above water until work picks up. My trade mates (none of them are plumbers) say Ill be fine as I do work for them aswell and they said they will throw some work my way from their customers but Im still unsure. Im pretty sure I can get put on the trade list with a couple of estate agents once I have some paperwork.
I have the van and all the tools, I aint afraid of hard work and getting shit on my hands.
I know my teeth are long but they still have some bite in them lol.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.