Defining the Issue

The City of Nevada recently overhauled its plumbing policies, leading to significant shifts in licensing requirements, code enforcement, and the role of the Plumbing Board. These changes, particularly the elimination of certain license types and the imposition of new requirements, have raised concerns and questions among various stakeholders, including landlords, tenants, contractors, and homeowners. This forum will delve into the specifics of these changes and their potential ramifications.

Key Discussion Points

Current City Adopted Plumbing Code:

• Highlights of the 2018 IPC Code: We’ll examine the key provisions of the 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC), which forms the basis of Nevada’s current plumbing regulations.
  
• Highlights of Chapter 25 of the City of Nevada Code: This section outlines specific provisions of Nevada’s plumbing and mechanical code.
  
• Article VI of Chapter 2 of the Nevada Missouri City Code: This article focuses on the establishment and operation of the Plumbing Board. We’ll discuss the board’s powers and responsibilities in overseeing plumbing activities and enforcing compliance.

Elimination of Former City Policies/License Types:

• Revocation of Drain Cleaning Licenses: The city has eliminated the specific license category for drain cleaning. This means that individuals previously operating under this license will need to meet the requirements for a Master Plumbers License , potentially impacting their ability to continue offering drain cleaning services.
  
• Sewer Contractor Licenses Now Require a Master Plumber: Previously, sewer contractors could operate independently. However, under the new policy, all sewer contracting businesses must have a Master Plumber on staff. This change significantly raises the bar for entry into this field and may affect existing businesses that do not currently employ a Master Plumber.
  
• Landlords are no longer allowed to work above shut offs to replace or repair fixtures: Landlords are now prohibited from performing any plumbing repairs or replacements on fixtures located above a shutoff valve. This means tasks such as replacing faucets, showerheads, or toilet fill valves must be carried out by a licensed plumber.

Powers of the Plumbing Board and Board Makeup:

• Board Composition: We’ll discuss the makeup of the Plumbing Board, including the qualifications and appointment process for its members.
  
• Enforcement and Compliance: This section will examine the board’s authority in enforcing plumbing codes, examine credentials for testing, conducting inspections, and handling violations.

Special Presentation:

• Joplin Real Estate Investment Association: Representatives from the Joplin Real Estate Investment Association will be on-site to discuss the benefits of membership and how building a strong network can empower investors to effectively engage with and influence governmental policy decisions. This is a valuable opportunity to learn how collective action and advocacy can help shape regulations that impact the real estate investment community.

Goals of the Forum

• Increase awareness and understanding of the new plumbing policies.
  
• Facilitate constructive dialogue among stakeholders.
  
• Identify potential challenges and opportunities arising from the changes.
  
• Explore possible solutions and recommendations for improvement and possible alternative policies that could encourage development while still maintaining public safety.