If you’re a homeowner, real estate investor, or plumbing professional in Upper Darby, PA, there’s a new local regulation you should be aware of. At the May 8, 2025 Upper Darby Township Council meeting, officials confirmed a significant shift in how plumbers are licensed — a change that has sparked concern among local tradespeople.

What’s Changing with Plumber Licensing in Upper Darby?

For over 30 years, the Philadelphia Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Administration (PHCCA) has been responsible for administering plumbing exams recognized by Upper Darby Township. However, Upper Darby has now stopped recognizing those tests, prompting outcry from licensed professionals.

Attorney Robert DeLuca, representing the plumbing community, raised concerns during the meeting about the abrupt change in accepted certification standards. Local plumbers argue that the shift could disrupt their ability to legally operate in the township, despite years of experience and prior certification.

Why Did Upper Darby Make the Change?

Amrinder Singh, Director of Licenses and Inspections for Upper Darby, stated that the township has seen increasing issues with poor-quality plumbing work. He noted that Pennsylvania is one of only seven U.S. states that do not mandate statewide trade licensing, which leaves individual municipalities responsible for regulating and enforcing trade standards.

Singh emphasized that this change is part of a broader effort to enforce long-standing local laws that had not been consistently applied in recent years.

What This Means for Homeowners & Contractors

This regulatory change could affect:

• Permitting timelines for plumbing work in Upper Darby

• Who qualifies to work as a licensed plumber in the township

• Real estate transactions that involve plumbing repairs or inspections

• Compliance requirements for contractors doing renovations or new builds

Whether you’re hiring a plumber, prepping your home for sale, or overseeing an investment property renovation, it’s more important than ever to ensure your contractors meet the updated licensing requirements.

Source: Daily Times, May 12, 2025.