Plumbing seems like a natural fit for many HVAC contractors looking to expand their offerings. But the process of adding this trade is more complicated than it may seem. In many states, adding plumbing services means hiring a licensed master plumber. This makes finding the right person essential to success.

The first challenge comes from answering the question, “Why would a good certified master plumber want to work for someone else, rather than running their own shop?” There are many good reasons, said Chris Hunter, director of customer relations for ServiceTitan. One is a reason common to many HVAC contractors: They love the trade, but not running a business. Joining a larger company allows them to focus on what they want to do.