The Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering - IPHE

The IPHE claim to be the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry. Its primary object is "... to advance for the public benefit and education of the public, the science, practice and principles of Plumbing and Heating Engineering.."

The IPHE claims to vet all members for qualifications and experience before they can join. They state that all members are expected to keep up to date with the latest industry advances and changes in Regulations through Professional Development.

Members of the Institute voluntarily join the professional body of the plumbing industry and voluntarily commit themselves to the IPHE's Code of Professional Standards:

  1. Perform professionally, competently and responsibly
    Carry out their own work or supervise the work of others with due regard to technical quality, appropriate insurance cover and the interests of employers, employees and clients; communicating and performing to an acceptable standard; and with a duty of care to employers, employees and clients.
  2. Safeguard the environment and public health and safety
    Take all reasonable care to avoid damaging the environment or creating any danger of death, injury or ill-health to any person or damage to property.
  3. Comply with all relevant laws, regulations, standards and codes
    Work in accordance with the relevant statutory requirements and conform to the appropriate British Standards Codes of Practice. In the case of Fellows and Members, registered with the Engineering Council, also conforming to that Council's Codes of Professional Practice.
  4. Broaden, improve and maintain their skills, knowledge and personal qualities
    Keep up-to-date with developments in the plumbing mechanical engineering services industry by attending and participating in Continuing Professional Development and other relevant training activities.
  5. Uphold the dignity, standing and reputation of the Institute and the plumbing mechanical engineering services industry
    Act professionally and adopt a form of behaviour and appearance that will not cause offence or embarrassment to others.

As they are governed by this code, the Institute holds a complaints procedure. All members will carry an Institute ID card. If you are unsure if a plumber is a member of the IPHE, or want to find out more on Registered Plumbers, please contact Head Office on 01708 472791, fax: 01708 448987 or email: info@iphe.org.uk.

To find out more visit the IPHE website.