Under SB533, only those licensed as a Master Plumber, Conditioned Air Contractor, Electrical Contractor, or Utility Contractor can advertise the corresponding services they provide.  

Until SB533 became law, unlicensed entities in Georgia were able to advertise themselves as performing plumbing or HVAC services or other skilled work, which could lead consumers to believe they were qualified, professional contractors when instead, they were not licensed to perform the services they advertised.

Now, for example, an unlicensed entity cannot present itself as “Bob’s Plumbing” or advertise plumbing services without a Master Plumber license issued by the state, according to the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling-Contractors—National Association (PHCC) of Georgia.

The consequences of doing so can extend beyond misleading advertising. Work performed by unqualified contractors can be faulty, substandard, or fail to meet existing building codes, potentially resulting in costly property damage and subsequent repairs.

Ellen Whitaker, executive vice president of the Georgia chapter of PHCC, said the new regulation is a “huge win” for licensed tradespeople. 

Licensing requirements were already in place for the trades covered by the new law provision, but the rise of inexpensive digital advertising created another challenge: websites, social media, and other low-cost marketing channels made it easier for unlicensed businesses to promote their services and compete with licensed contractors, according to Whitaker. She described the trend as “almost a proliferation” of unlicensed businesses. 

“Unlicensed individuals began creating websites, social media posts, and other marketing materials at a fraction of the cost,” Whitaker said. “This became a problem for our PHCC contractors, because our licensed contractors play by the rules.”

 And the thing about PHCC contractors? They invest in continuing education, insurance, permits, code compliance, and other requirements. Those unlicensed contractors, don't. 

“Businesses operating outside those requirements can artificially lower their costs while presenting themselves to consumers as though they meet the same professional standards,” Whitaker said. 

According to Whitaker, a violator of the new law can be issued a cease-and-desist order. And if that order is ignored, a fine of up to $1,500 a day could be given.

Before the law was passed, Kemp’s office and members of the legislature approached stakeholder organizations representing several skilled trades, including PHCC of Georgia, for feedback on how legislation could be written to address unlicensed entities advertising themselves as professional tradespeople.

“This law strengthens consumer confidence, supports ethical businesses, and reinforces the value of professional licensure,” Whitaker said.