Subcontracting and Freelance Plumbing Work Internationally

Introduction

Thinking about taking your plumbing skills beyond your home borders and building a flexible, higher-earning career in the European Union? Romania is one of the most compelling destinations for professional plumbers from Global who want to subcontract or freelance internationally. As the construction sector expands, industrial facilities modernize, and households upgrade heating and sanitary systems, demand for skilled plumbers is rising across Romanian cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.

This guide shows you exactly how to start and grow a subcontracting or freelance plumbing business in Romania. You will learn how to navigate Romanian construction standards, convert your qualifications, obtain the right work authorization, bid on projects, price your services, and manage client relationships. We will also cover the practical side of living and working in Romania: realistic salary and day-rate ranges, cost of living by city, safety certifications, tools and materials used locally, and cultural tips that help you win trust on site.

Whether you aim to become an independent subcontractor for general contractors, a self-employed specialist in heating systems, or a small-company owner serving both residential and commercial clients, use this as your blueprint to move, comply, and thrive.

Why Romania?

EU membership and a gateway to broader markets

Romania is an EU member state. For plumbers, that means your business can plug into a large market using EU standards (EN and SR EN) that are compatible across many countries. Once registered, you can subcontract both domestically and, with the right arrangements, in nearby EU states. For assignments in other EU countries while remaining based in Romania, you can explore the A1 Certificate for social security coverage to avoid double contributions during temporary postings.

Competitive earnings with lower cost of living

Compared to many Western European capitals, Romania offers a lower cost base for housing, transport, and daily expenses, while construction rates are steadily rising. Independent plumbers can secure day rates that provide strong purchasing power in cities like Timisoara and Iasi, and still remain competitive when bidding jobs in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca.

Plumber demand across sectors

New construction: Residential blocks, mixed-use developments, and office buildings continue to be built in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and the Black Sea coast.
Renovation boom: Older apartment blocks and houses need pipe replacement, sanitary system retrofits, and energy-efficient heating upgrades.
Industrial installations: Food processing, logistics parks, pharmaceuticals, and light manufacturing require reliable water, drainage, fire-suppression interfaces, and process piping.
Heating system upgrades: Condensing boilers, hydronic systems, heat pumps, and smart controls are gaining traction, especially in urban centers.

Quality of life and work-life balance

Romania offers vibrant city centers, nature access (Carpathian Mountains, Danube Delta), and a growing expat community. English is widely understood in business and tech hubs, and the service sector is increasingly international. For many relocating professionals, the combination of lower living costs, safety, and modern amenities makes day-to-day life straightforward.

Job Market Overview: Where Freelance and Subcontracting Opportunities Are

Sectors hiring independent plumbers

General contractors and developers: New builds and large retrofits (Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca).
Mechanical and HVAC firms: Heating, chilled water, hydronics, and mechanical room work.
Facility management companies: Ongoing maintenance contracts for commercial buildings, shopping centers, and industrial parks.
Utilities and municipal projects: Water and sewer upgrades, treatment plants.
Residential service companies: Renovations, bathroom refits, kitchen plumbing, emergency call-outs.

Typical employers and clients in Romania

Construction companies: Strabag Romania, Bog'Art, PORR Romania, Con-A, Skanska Romania (developer), local mid-size builders.
Utilities and service providers: Veolia Romania, Apa Nova (Bucharest water utility), Engie Romania (gas and services), local municipal utilities.
Facility management: CBRE, Atalian, local FM firms, and property managers of office parks and malls.
Wholesalers and suppliers (as partners for referrals): Romstal, Valrom, Dedeman (retail), Hornbach, Arabesque.

Cities and niches

Bucharest: Highest volume of new construction and commercial maintenance. Competitive, but consistent pipeline of projects and subcontracting layers.
Cluj-Napoca: Tech-driven city with steady residential upgrades and commercial fit-outs; strong demand for high-quality finishes and modern heating.
Timisoara: Industrial and logistics growth; factories and distribution centers need robust process and sanitary systems.
Iasi: Public and private investments in healthcare, education, and housing; good balance of price sensitivity and technical quality.

What clients look for in subcontractors

Evidence of compliance: Romanian codes, EN standards, and specific authorizations (especially ISCIR for boilers and pressure-related equipment; ANRE for gas installation companies and electricians).
Safety records and SSM/PSI training certificates.
Clear pricing structure and documentation (estimates, change orders, progress billing).
Capacity to deliver: Tools, small crew availability, ability to coordinate with other trades, and reliable scheduling.

Legal Requirements: Work Permits and Visa Process for Global Citizens

Note: Rules change periodically. Always verify with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI), Romanian consulates, or a licensed immigration lawyer.

If you plan to be employed first (common entry route)

Job offer and work permit: A Romanian employer applies for a work permit on your behalf with IGI. Once approved, you apply for a long-stay employment visa (usually type D) at a Romanian consulate.
Enter Romania and register: After arrival, apply for a residence permit (employment) within the required timeframe (often within 90 days). You will receive a residence card.
Transition to subcontracting: After you are settled, some professionals establish their own legal entity (PFA or SRL) and move into subcontracting. Make sure your residence purpose and work rights cover self-employment activities before switching. Consult IGI on changing residence purpose.

If you plan to be self-employed or start a company from the start

Romania allows foreign citizens to run a business, but the visa/residence path is different from standard employment. You typically need to:

Choose a legal form:
- PFA (Authorized Natural Person): Simplified sole trader structure, suitable for one-person operations.
- SRL (Limited Liability Company): Most common for small businesses; protects personal assets and helps when bidding on larger contracts.
Prepare documentation: Business plan, proof of funds, company registration documents, and sometimes proof of contracts or client interest.
Apply for a long-stay visa for commercial or business activities at a Romanian consulate, then for a residence permit for carrying out commercial activities after arrival.
Register for tax and social contributions (ANAF), and if needed, VAT. For public tenders or larger clients, ensure your registration is complete and your fiscal status is clear.

Because requirements for business/residence permits vary by profile, consult an immigration specialist to choose the right path.

EU Blue Card and other options

If you hold a high-qualification role (less common for plumbers unless managing complex industrial systems), the EU Blue Card may be an option through an employer pathway. This can later support mobility within the EU. However, most independent plumbers use standard employment visas first or self-employment routes.

Family reunification and dependents

Once you have a legal residence permit, you may be able to sponsor family members under family reunification rules. Proof of income, accommodation, and health insurance is usually required.

Certification and License Recognition

Understanding the European framework

There is no single EU-wide plumber license, but EU rules (Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications) support recognition of equivalent qualifications between member states. For Global citizens, you will likely need to present diplomas, proof of experience, and competence certificates to Romanian authorities or professional bodies for local equivalence.

Romanian trade certification (calificare)

If you have foreign vocational diplomas, you may need to obtain recognition to the Romanian qualification standard for plumbers (e.g., calificare instalator). This often involves submitting legalized/apostilled documents, professional references, and sometimes passing an assessment.
Local training centers can issue certificates of completion for specific systems (PPR fusion, press-fitting, boiler commissioning) which help clients verify your competence.

ISCIR authorizations for gas- and pressure-related work

ISCIR is the State Inspectorate for Control of Boilers, Pressure Vessels, and Lifting Installations. If you work on boilers, pressure vessels, or related thermal systems, you or your employer may need ISCIR certifications for installation, commissioning, periodic checks, and service. Clients will ask for proof of ISCIR-qualified personnel when boilers and pressure systems are included in scope.
Gas work intersects with both ANRE and ISCIR areas. In practice, gas installation companies must be authorized (commonly via ANRE) and technicians working on boilers and pressure equipment require ISCIR credentials. Verify the scope of work and ensure the right authorization is in place before you sign a contract.

Other must-have safety training and site compliance

SSM (Occupational Safety and Health) and PSI (Fire Safety) training: Mandatory for site access. Often provided or verified by the general contractor. Keep certificates current and carry copies.
First aid and work at height permits where applicable.
For welding PE pipes for gas or HDPE/PP for water networks, welding qualifications/certifications are frequently required.

EU and Romanian standards to know

EN 806: Specifications for installations inside buildings conveying water for human consumption.
EN 12056: Gravity drainage systems inside buildings.
SR EN and Romanian Normatives: Normativ I9 for sanitary installations and Normativ I13 for heating installations are commonly referenced (confirm the latest editions). P118 for fire safety may affect sprinkler interfaces and penetrations.
Material standards: Copper (EN 1057), PEX/PE-RT/PP-R systems, multilayer pipes (PEX-AL-PEX), and press fittings per manufacturer specification (TH, U, H profiles).

Language for technical terms

Even experienced plumbers can be slowed by unfamiliar terminology. Build a mini-glossary:

teava (pipe), fiting (fitting), cot (elbow), robinet (valve), clapet (check valve), reductie (reducer), filet (thread), imbinare presata (press joint), lipire (solder), sudura (weld)
alimentare cu apa (water supply), canalizare (drainage), incalzire (heating), centrala termica (boiler), distribuitor (manifold), calorifer (radiator), pardoseala incalzita (underfloor heating)
gaz metan (natural gas), arzator (burner), vana de gaz (gas valve), detector gaz (gas detector)
izolatie (insulation), etansare (sealing), garnitura (gasket)

Salary and Benefits: What to Expect as a Subcontractor or Freelancer

Your earnings depend on city, specialization, certifications, and whether you work direct for clients or through general contractors.

Employee benchmarks (as a reference)

Net monthly salary for experienced plumbers: 4,000 to 8,000 RON net (approx 800 to 1,600 EUR), higher in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, with overtime and night shifts boosting totals.
Site supervisors/foremen with strong credentials: 7,000 to 10,000 RON net (approx 1,400 to 2,000 EUR).

Independent subcontractor day rates

General plumbing and sanitary: 350 to 700 RON per day (approx 70 to 140 EUR), depending on experience and city.
Heating systems specialist (boilers, hydronics, commissioning with ISCIR credentials): 600 to 1,000 RON per day (approx 120 to 200 EUR) or more for urgent works.
Gas installation technician working with authorized firms: 500 to 900 RON per day (approx 100 to 180 EUR).
Emergency call-out rates: Evening/weekend call-outs can command 250 to 500 RON per visit plus parts and labor.

Subcontractors often negotiate progress billing, mobilization fees, and payment terms of 15 to 30 days after invoice. For larger contractors, 45 to 60 days and retention of 5 to 10% until handover are common. Negotiate a reasonable advance (10 to 30%) for materials-heavy jobs.

Benefits and allowances

As an independent, benefits are self-managed:

Health insurance: Mandatory; private plans enhance coverage and are affordable compared to Western Europe.
Liability insurance: Public and professional liability coverage, especially for gas and heating systems, is highly recommended and sometimes contractually required.
Tools and transport: Factor vehicle, fuel, and tool wear into your rates.

Cost of Living: Romania by the Numbers

Note: Exchange rate approximations use 1 EUR = 4.95 RON. Costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle.

Housing (monthly rent)

Bucharest: 1-bedroom 400 to 700 EUR (2,000 to 3,500 RON), 2-bedroom 600 to 1,000 EUR.
Cluj-Napoca: 1-bedroom 350 to 600 EUR, 2-bedroom 550 to 900 EUR.
Timisoara: 1-bedroom 300 to 500 EUR, 2-bedroom 450 to 750 EUR.
Iasi: 1-bedroom 300 to 450 EUR, 2-bedroom 450 to 700 EUR.

Utilities and internet

Utilities (electricity, gas, water, garbage) for a 1-bedroom: 80 to 150 EUR per month depending on season and heating type.
High-speed internet and mobile: 8 to 20 EUR per month per service.

Transport

Public transport pass: 15 to 20 EUR per month in major cities.
Fuel: Around 1.4 to 1.7 EUR per liter. Consider a rovinieta (road vignette) for national roads if you travel between cities.
Van purchase: Reliable second-hand vans (e.g., Ford Transit, Renault Trafic) range widely; budget 6,000 to 12,000 EUR for a solid used unit.

Daily expenses

Groceries for one: 150 to 250 EUR per month.
Lunch menu at local eateries: 6 to 10 EUR.
Coffee: 2 to 3 EUR; bottled water: 0.5 to 1 EUR.

Cultural Integration: Working and Communicating Effectively

Communication style

Direct but polite: Romanians appreciate clear, respectful communication. Confirm technical details in writing.
Relationship-driven: A good personal impression and dependability lead to referrals and repeat business.
Time expectations: Punctuality matters. If delayed, call ahead.

On-site culture

Hierarchy on site is respected: Project manager, site engineer, foreman, then trades. Keep your documentation ready for inspections.
Cleanliness and order: Keep your area tidy; many contractors emphasize safety and housekeeping.
Tea and coffee breaks: A quick break together helps rapport. Learn simple Romanian greetings and pleasantries to build goodwill.

Language basics for work

Greetings: Buna ziua (good day), Multumesc (thank you), Va rog (please), Scuze (sorry).
On site: Plan, sectiune (section), dimensiune (dimension), nivel (level), evacuare (drain), alimentare (supply), presiune (pressure), debit (flow), proba de presiune (pressure test), receptie (handover), garantie (warranty).
Document terms: Deviz (bill of quantities/estimate), factura (invoice), avans (advance), termen de plata (payment term), contract (contract), receptie la terminare (practical completion), receptie finala (final acceptance).

Practical Steps to Relocate and Start Subcontracting

1) Validate your plan and business model

Decide your focus: residential service, heating systems, gas work with authorized partners, commercial fit-out, or industrial piping.
Choose how you will operate: Solo subcontractor, small crew, or build a micro-company with 2 to 5 installers.
Research demand per city: For high-volume new builds, Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca; for industrial parks, Timisoara; for public works and healthcare, Iasi.

2) Map your immigration path

Employed first for stability or directly self-employed? Discuss with an immigration consultant.
If employed: Secure a job offer, let the company sponsor your work permit, obtain your D-type visa, and then residence permit.
If self-employed: Register PFA or incorporate SRL, prepare a business plan and supporting documents, apply for the appropriate long-stay visa, and obtain a residence permit for commercial activities.

3) Register your business and tax profile

PFA vs SRL:
- PFA is simpler to run but offers less liability protection.
- SRL provides limited liability and is favored by larger clients.
Register at the Trade Registry (Oficiul National al Registrului Comertului) and with ANAF (tax authority).
Decide on VAT registration based on projected turnover. The VAT threshold is set by law; check the current limit. Standard VAT is 19%.
Explore microenterprise tax regimes if eligible. These regimes and rates change; in recent years, small companies could pay a low percentage of turnover if they met conditions.
Set up an SPV/ANAF online account for e-invoicing if required. Romania has been rolling out e-Factura obligations, especially for resident entities.

4) Obtain or align certifications

Convert your qualifications to Romanian equivalence for calificare instalator if needed.
Complete SSM/PSI training.
Plan ISCIR-related training/certification for boiler and pressure equipment work; align with an authorized firm for supervised activities if you are new to the system.
For gas installations, partner with or become part of an authorized company that covers the gas scope. Verify which authorizations cover your work.
Collect manufacturer training certificates for systems you will install (press fittings, boilers, pumps, controls). Suppliers like Romstal, Valrom, Rehau, Viega, and Henco often run courses.

5) Build your supplier network and toolkit

Where to buy: Romstal (HVAC/plumbing wholesaler), Dedeman, Hornbach, Arabesque, specialist distributors.
Common systems: PPR fusion, PEX-AL-PEX with press fittings, copper with solder or press, HDPE for underground.
Tooling: Press tool with TH profile jaws, PPR welding irons, pipe threaders, HDPE fusion kit if you do PE gas/water mains, pressure testing equipment, leak detection, and combustion analyzer for boiler work.
Carry spares: seals, valves, compression fittings, adapters, reducers, and common fixtures.

6) Find your first contracts

Job boards: eJobs.ro, BestJobs.ro, OLX, LinkedIn.
Direct outreach: Contact general contractors and MEP firms; present your portfolio and certifications.
Facility management: Offer preventive maintenance bundles and emergency response service-level agreements.
Public tenders: Register to explore opportunities via SICAP (Romania's e-procurement portal) once your company is set up and eligible.
Referrals: Visit supplier counters, leave business cards, and offer quick-response services to win repeat clients.

7) Bid like a local

Provide a clear deviz (estimate) including materials vs labor, unit rates, and timeline.
Include testing and commissioning steps (pressure tests, flushing, balancing, boiler commissioning with ISCIR procedures where required).
State warranty terms: 12 to 24 months on workmanship is common.
Clarify exclusions: Structural openings, electrical connections, and finishes unless specified.
Payment terms: Propose 30% advance for material-heavy jobs, staged billing, and a final payment at practical completion. Agree on retention and release schedule.

8) Execute professionally on site

Attend coordination meetings. Confirm penetrations, sleeve sizes, elevations, and interface with other trades.
Document changes and submit change orders quickly.
Keep testing records, photos, and handover documentation in an organized folder.

9) Manage finances and compliance

Track invoices and receipts. Consider simple accounting software compatible with Romanian rules.
Set aside taxes and contributions monthly.
Maintain insurance: public liability and, if applicable, professional liability.
Renew permits and authorizations before expiry.

10) Scale steadily

Hire an apprentice or junior installer. Invest in training.
Add services: hydronic balancing, energy audits with partners, seasonal maintenance packages.
Consider cross-border work in nearby EU markets. For temporary postings, check the A1 social security certificate and local posting rules.

Common Technical and Administrative Challenges (and How to Solve Them)

Metric system and Romanian fitting standards

Romania uses the metric system and DN (nominal diameter) conventions. Multilayer and PPR systems are measured in mm (e.g., 16, 20, 25, 32 mm).
Keep a metric tape, metric drill bits, and metric-thread dies. Stock common reducers and adapters.

Local building codes and documentation

Learn how Romanian normatives are cited in drawings and specifications (e.g., Normativ I9/I13, SR EN references). Ask the site engineer for the latest versions. Keep digital copies on your device.
For fire-rated penetrations, coordinate with fire safety requirements (P118 and system-specific approvals). Use approved firestop materials and keep product certificates.

Language for technical details

Bring bilingual checklists for pressure tests, flushing, and commissioning. Many GCs appreciate English plus Romanian forms.
Use annotated photos and markups to eliminate ambiguity.

Sourcing specific materials

If a specified brand is uncommon locally, propose an equivalent from Romstal or Valrom and submit a technical submittal. Ensure EU conformity and obtain client approval before procurement.

Contractual friction

Avoid disputes by documenting scope clarifications and maintaining a variation log.
Agree on acceptance criteria and testing procedures upfront.
Keep email threads and meeting minutes for key decisions.

Safety and Compliance: Non-Negotiables

SSM and PSI training: Mandatory and regularly refreshed.
Site induction: Attend every site-specific induction and respect PPE rules.
Electrical and gas: Do not cross scopes. Engage authorized partners for gas line work and electrical connections to boilers and pumps.
Boiler and pressure systems: Follow ISCIR procedures, including documentation, safety valves, expansion vessels, and scheduled checks.
Environmental: Handle waste responsibly; separate recyclable materials when possible.

Realistic Pricing Examples

Residential bathroom refit in Bucharest (labor only): 1,200 to 2,000 EUR depending on complexity, excluding tiles and sanitary ware. Timeline: 5 to 10 days.
Gas boiler replacement with power flush and controls (labor + basic materials, no boiler cost): 400 to 800 EUR depending on venting, condensate routing, and commissioning requirements.
Small commercial fit-out (sanitary + kitchenette for an office): 2,500 to 6,000 EUR labor, 2 to 4 weeks, plus materials.
Industrial drain reroute with HDPE and floor drains: Quote after site visit; often 1,500 to 5,000 EUR labor for short runs, plus materials and equipment rental if core drilling is needed.

Adjust rates by city and by your certification level. Specialists with proven ISCIR-related competence can command higher margins for boiler rooms, heat exchangers, and pressure testing programs.

Success Tips from Other Expats

Start with a few targeted services you can deliver perfectly, then expand.
Do manufacturer trainings early. Certificates displayed in your offers increase win rates.
Keep a Romanian-speaking partner or assistant for phones and paperwork in the first months.
Over-communicate on schedule and changes. It builds trust fast.
Join online groups for tradespeople in Romania. Referrals often circulate in private chats.
Pay suppliers on time. Counter staff at Romstal or Dedeman can become key referral sources.

Conclusion: Make Your Move with Confidence

Romania offers a strong runway for skilled plumbers who want the independence of subcontracting and freelancing. With EU-standard projects, rising renovation demand, and a cost structure that rewards efficient professionals, you can build a robust pipeline of work while enjoying a lower cost of living. Prepare your authorizations, align with local norms, communicate clearly in English and basic Romanian, and set professional standards in documentation and safety. The result: stable earnings, referrals, and a platform to expand across Romania and, when ready, into the broader EU market.

Your next step: choose your city, decide your legal setup (PFA or SRL), confirm your visa path, and start contacting contractors for upcoming tenders. If you need a starting checklist, revisit the Practical Steps section and action item 1 today.

FAQ

1) Can I freelance as a plumber in Romania if I am a Global citizen without EU citizenship?

Yes, but you need the right residence and work authorization. Many professionals start with an employer-sponsored work permit and residence permit, then create a PFA or SRL once established. You can also pursue a self-employment or business route directly, but the visa and residence requirements differ. Consult IGI or an immigration lawyer to pick the best path.

2) Do I need Romanian certification to start working?

If you are employed by a Romanian company, your existing qualifications may be accepted while you work under supervision, but certain scopes require local authorizations. For independent work, it is best to obtain recognition of your plumbing qualification (calificare instalator) and complete mandatory site safety training (SSM/PSI). For boilers and pressure systems, ISCIR-related authorization is required. For gas installations, collaborate with an authorized company and ensure proper approvals are in place.

3) What are typical subcontracting payment terms in Romania?

Expect 15 to 30 days for smaller clients and 45 to 60 days for large contractors. Retention of 5 to 10% until practical completion is common. Negotiate an advance (10 to 30%) for material-heavy jobs and define clear milestones. Include change order procedures to avoid underpayment for extra work.

4) How do I price my services when I do not know local market rates?

Start with the Salary and Benefits section benchmarks. Gather 3 to 5 quotes from competitors for a similar scope, note differences, and adjust for your certification level and speed. Use an hourly or daily baseline plus materials, then convert into fixed-price bids with clear exclusions. Track time and costs on your first five projects and refine your rates.

5) Which Romanian cities are best for independent plumbers?

Bucharest: Largest volume of work, higher competition, higher rates.
Cluj-Napoca: Tech and residential upgrades, clients value quality.
Timisoara: Industrial and logistics projects with steady demand.
Iasi: Mix of public and private projects, consistent renovation work. Choose based on your niche and personal preferences for cost of living and lifestyle.

6) Do I need to speak Romanian fluently to win contracts?

Fluency helps, but it is not mandatory in the beginning, especially in international project teams. Learn basics and technical terms. Bring bilingual documentation for testing and commissioning. Hiring a Romanian-speaking assistant or partnering with a local technician can solve communication gaps and speed up paperwork.

7) What insurance do I need as a freelancer?

Public liability insurance is essential. For gas and boiler work, professional liability and specific policies may be required by clients. Vehicle insurance for your van, tool insurance for high-value equipment, and health insurance are also recommended.

8) How do I source materials and ensure compliance with standards?

Work with established distributors such as Romstal, Valrom, Dedeman, and specialist wholesalers. Ask for products with EU conformity and SR EN references. When proposing alternatives, submit technical sheets for approval. Keep to EN 806 and EN 12056 for water and drainage, and follow local normatives like I9/I13 for sanitary and heating systems.

9) Can I bid for public projects as a small company?

Yes, through the SICAP portal, provided your company is registered and you meet eligibility criteria. You may start by subcontracting for larger firms to build references, then bid directly for small lots once you have a performance record and the required authorizations.

10) What about working in other EU countries after I base myself in Romania?

You can explore temporary contracts in nearby EU states. Plan for compliance: local posting rules, possible work notifications, and the A1 Certificate for social security coverage. Confirm recognition of your qualifications in the target country and any local licensing necessary, especially for gas and electrical scopes.

By following the steps in this guide and investing in local compliance, safety, and communication, you can turn Romania into a thriving base for subcontracting and freelance plumbing work - with room to grow across the EU.