Should There be a Licence to Plumb?

23 Jun 2026
World Plumbing Conference
World Plumbing Conference
In the UK, gas engineers remain the only trade legally required to hold a licence, regulated under the Gas Safe Register. This expert panel—moderated by Kevin Wellman—examines how quality and accountability can be ensured across other trades, and whether licensing should become a broader requirement. Drawing on international examples, the discussion will explore how licensing systems operate in other countries and what lessons can be learned. The panel will consider how a global approach to regulation could foster consistency, raise standards, and create synergy across industries—ultimately strengthening public trust and professional credibility.
Chairperson
Philippa Forrester
Philippa Forrester, TV presenter, producer and author
Speakers
Dave Viola
Dave Viola, Chief Executive Officer - International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
Elmar Esser
Elmar Esser - former Managing Director of the German Sanitation, Heating and Air Conditioning Association (ZVSHK – Zentralverband Sanitär Heizung Klima). Advisor to the World Plumbing Council
Jonathan Samuel
Jonathan Samuel, Managing Director - WaterRegs UK
Kevin Wellman
Kevin Wellman, Chief Executive Officer - The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering
Shayne La Combre
Shayne La Combre, Chief Executive Officer - The Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre