Permits & inspections: Massachusetts Journeyman Plumber (UPC) Practice Questions

Which plumbing work needs no permit in Massachusetts?

248 CMR 3.05(1)(c) exempts from permits the repair of leaks in a faucet, valve or other working part of a fixture, the clearance of a stoppage, and adjusting gas appliance controls without changing the gas connection.

To whom may a Massachusetts plumbing permit never be issued?

248 CMR 3.05(1)(b)7.a. allows permits only to properly licensed individuals and says permits may not be issued to apprentices.

A water heater fails at night and a licensee replaces it before getting a permit. When must the inspector inspect it?

248 CMR 3.05(1)(a)4. allows emergency installation or repair before a permit if required testing is done, safe operation is assured and the inspector is notified, with a regular inspection at the earliest opportunity and no later than the next working day.

When does a Massachusetts plumbing permit become invalid?

248 CMR 3.05(1)(e) makes a permit invalid if work is not started within 90 days of the permit date, unless the holder proves the delay was beyond his or her control.

After proper notice that work is ready, how soon must the inspector act on the inspection request?

248 CMR 3.05(3)(e) requires the inspector to act on an inspection request within two working days of proper notification (direct communication with the inspector); 3.05(1)(f) sets the same limit for acting on permit applications.

Who must furnish the equipment, materials and labor for a required plumbing test during inspection?

248 CMR 3.05(5) requires the licensed plumber or gas fitter to furnish the equipment, materials, power and labor needed for the inspection and any required tests.

New piping was covered before the inspector tested and approved it. What happens?

248 CMR 3.05(3)(f) bars covering new work until tested (if required) and certified by the inspector; if it is covered first, it must be uncovered for inspection after the inspector issues a notice to uncover to the permit holder.

A plumber disagrees with a local inspector's interpretation of 248 CMR. Where may the plumber appeal for a hearing?

248 CMR 3.05(6) lets an aggrieved person ask the State Inspector for a nonbinding advisory opinion, or appeal to the Board for a hearing in writing with a fee; the Board's decision is final.

A local inspector of plumbing also works as a plumber. Whose work may the inspector not inspect?

Section 12 of chapter 142 bars an inspector from inspecting or approving work done by himself, his employer, his employee or one employed with him; an additional inspector is appointed for that work.