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.
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