A leak under the sink, a water heater to replace or a bathroom to redo: sooner or later, every Brossard homeowner needs a plumber. This guide is for homeowners, condo owners and newcomers who want to hire a qualified professional without unpleasant surprises. You will learn how to check a plumber’s licence, what to ask before accepting a quote and how to react in an emergency. Last checked: October 2026.
Transparency: brossard.city may be affiliated with the businesses it recommends.
In short
- In Quebec, plumbing work requires a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) with subcategory 15.5, “Plumbing contractor”.
- The law also requires a piping contractor to be a member in good standing of the Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ).
- Always check the licence in the RBQ’s Registre des détenteurs de licence, online and free of charge.
- Ask for several detailed written quotes before choosing.
- In an emergency, shut off the water at the main valve before calling a plumber.
Why the RBQ licence is essential
The Régie du bâtiment du Québec states that plumbing work requires a licence with subcategory 15.5, “Plumbing contractor”. The CMMTQ acts as the RBQ’s agent for plumbing and heating licences. According to the RBQ, a licence also gives access to a financial guarantee (security bond) in the event of a dispute with the contractor.
In addition, the Master Pipe-Mechanics Act provides that no one may practise as a master pipe-mechanic unless they are a member in good standing of the Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ). Only its members may use the titles “master plumber” or “master heating contractor”. You can read the text of the Act on LégisQuébec.
How to check a licence in a few minutes
- Ask the plumber for their RBQ licence number and the exact name of their company.
- Go to the Régie du bâtiment du Québec website and use its contractor licence verification tool to search by name or licence number.
- Confirm that the record shows subcategory 15.5 and that the name, contact information and Quebec enterprise number match those on the quote.
- Look at the section on the security bond and any pending claims or compensation paid.
The registry only lists holders with a valid licence. If the company is not in it, do not sign anything.
Questions to ask before accepting a quote
- What is your RBQ licence number, and are you a member of the CMMTQ?
- Do you have civil liability insurance? Can you give me the policy number and the insurer’s name?
- Is the quote a fixed price or an hourly rate? Are travel and material costs included?
- Which parts and brands do you plan to install?
- What warranty do you offer on labour and parts?
- Is a municipal permit required? Who takes care of it?
- What are the planned start and end dates?
The Office de la protection du consommateur recommends getting written quotes, describing the work and materials clearly and having the payment terms spelled out. Its website has a section on plumbing and electrical work in residential renovation (cancelling a contract, unexpected charges, unfinished or poorly done work).
Comparing quotes: a reference table
| Item | What to look for | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| RBQ licence | Number shown, subcategory 15.5 | No number, or a number not found in the registry |
| Description | Detailed work and parts | Lump sum with no detail |
| Price | Itemized costs, taxes shown | Very low price with no explanation |
| Payment | Payments tied to progress | Large deposit required up front, cash only |
| Insurance | Policy number and insurer | Refusal to provide proof |
| Schedule | Start and end dates | No dates |
To save time, you can compare quotes from local contractors. Still check the RBQ licence of every company that responds.
Plumbing emergencies: the right reflexes
Before the plumber arrives
- Close the main water shut-off valve (find it now, before you need it).
- Cut the power to affected areas if water is getting close to outlets or appliances.
- For a leaking water heater, close its water supply and shut off its power (breaker or gas, depending on the model).
- Mop up the water and take photos for your insurer.
Stay vigilant, even in a hurry
An emergency is no reason to skip the licence check: it takes a few minutes online. Ask on the phone whether emergency or evening service fees apply, and have the rate confirmed in writing (text or email). The Office de la protection du consommateur warns against pressure tactics: if in doubt, get a second opinion.
Condominiums
In a condo, a leak can affect the common areas or the neighbouring unit. Notify your condo association or the building manager quickly, and check your declaration of co-ownership to find out who is responsible for what.
Permits and regulations in Brossard
Some work (moving a bathroom, adding plumbing in the basement) may require a permit from the City. See our guide to renovation permits in Brossard and the Ville de Brossard website before you start.
Frequently asked questions
Can a handyman do my plumbing work?
To have plumbing work done by a company, that company must hold the appropriate RBQ licence (subcategory 15.5). Dealing with someone without a licence deprives you, among other things, of the protection of the security bond.
How can I tell if a plumber is a CMMTQ member?
Ask directly and check the website of the Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec. The RBQ record also shows the association that provides the security bond.
How many quotes should I get?
The Office de la protection du consommateur suggests getting written quotes from three contractors for renovation work.
How much does a plumber cost in Brossard?
Rates vary depending on the urgency, the time of day and the complexity of the work. We do not publish unverified average prices: compare detailed quotes instead.
What if the work is poorly done?
First notify the contractor in writing. Then contact the Office de la protection du consommateur and, if needed, the RBQ, which offers a claim form for the security bond.
Going further
Planning bigger work? Read our guide to renovation contractors in Brossard, as well as our article on carpet and duct cleaning. Just bought? Try the welcome tax calculator and our complete guide to living in Brossard. All our services are gathered on the Home Services page.
This is general information, not legal advice. Last checked: October 2026.
brossard.city is an independent guide, not affiliated with the City of Brossard. Information is provided for general guidance only; check with official sources before making any decision. Spotted an error? Let us know.