Is it legal to DIY my own plumbing drain connections in New Brunswick or does all drain work require a licensed plumber?

All plumbing work in New Brunswick, including drain connections, must be performed by a licensed plumber — homeowners cannot legally do their own plumbing installations, repairs, or modifications unless they hold a valid NB plumber's licence issued by Technical Inspection Services (TIS).

This applies to all drain work including connecting new fixtures, replacing drain lines, installing p-traps, connecting to existing stacks, and any modifications to your home's drainage system. Even seemingly simple tasks like hooking up a new vanity drain or replacing a kitchen sink drain line require a licensed professional in New Brunswick.

The permit and inspection process requires the licensed plumber to obtain a plumbing permit from TIS before starting work, then arrange for inspection once the rough-in is complete (before covering pipes) and again after final connections. TIS inspectors verify the work meets National Building Code requirements and provincial plumbing standards. Contact TIS at 1-888-659-3222 for permit information.

What you CAN do yourself includes cosmetic work like painting, installing flooring, mounting fixtures to walls, and basic maintenance like cleaning drains or replacing faucet aerators. You can also remove old fixtures to prep for the plumber, but the actual disconnection and reconnection of water supply and drain lines must be done by the licensed professional.

Why the strict licensing requirement? Improper drain connections can cause sewer gas infiltration (dangerous hydrogen sulfide), water damage from leaks, code violations that affect home insurance, and expensive repairs if connections fail. Licensed plumbers carry liability insurance and warranty their work — critical protection for homeowners.

Your next step is to get quotes from licensed plumbers in your area. Verify their TIS licence status and ask them to handle the permit process. A simple drain connection might cost $200-$500 depending on complexity, while more extensive drain work runs $500-$2,000+. The permit and inspection fees are typically included in the plumber's quote, ensuring your work is legal and properly completed.