When you think about trades in British Columbia, plumbing is one of those industries that never goes out of demand. Behind every working faucet, hot shower, and restaurant kitchen is a plumber making sure things run smoothly. On this episode of the Home Service BC Podcast, I sat down with Chad Paton, founder of Paton Plumbing Worx Inc., to talk about his 25-year journey in the trade, the growth of his business, and how technology is changing the plumbing industry.
Starting Out in the Trades
Chad began plumbing back in 1998, working for a handful of companies before taking the leap into business ownership. In 2008, he launched Paton Plumbing Worx, and 17 years later, he has built a team of nine.
Like many tradespeople, Chad didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur. He simply wanted a better balance between work and life. Long commutes from Langley and Surrey into Vancouver pushed him to consider working closer to home in the Fraser Valley. Starting his own business gave him that freedom—and the opportunity to build something lasting.
Building a Team and a Reputation
Today, Paton Plumbing Worx specializes in commercial plumbing renovations (about 60% of the business) and residential projects and custom homes (about 40%). What sets Chad apart is not just the services he offers, but the relationships he builds.
“I actually get more referrals from other plumbers,” Chad shared. “When another plumber trusts you with their client, that says a lot.”
This focus on trust and long-term relationships has helped his business thrive without relying heavily on aggressive marketing.
Embracing New Plumbing Technology
Plumbing may seem like an old-school trade, but technology is transforming it. Chad is especially excited about:
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Tankless water heaters that learn your household’s usage patterns and adjust accordingly to save energy.
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Heat pump water heaters as greener alternatives.
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Smart water shutoff valves that detect leaks and prevent costly flood damage—often required by insurance companies.
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Remote monitoring systems that can alert homeowners before small issues turn into disasters.
“It’s convenience, it’s efficiency, and in many cases, it saves money and prevents damage,” Chad explained.
A Memorable Success Story
One standout project Chad recalled was for The Barley Merchant Taproom, a local Fraser Valley restaurant. Their hot water tank failed late on a Friday, forcing them to close with a lineup out the door.
Instead of a simple replacement, Chad and his team installed two tankless water heaters with a buffer tank, ensuring redundancy and efficiency. By the next day, the restaurant was back open for dinner service. The project not only solved the immediate problem but also gave the business a long-term upgrade.
That’s the kind of solution-focused work that makes Peyton Plumbing Works stand out.
Advice for Homeowners
When it comes to hiring a plumber, Chad’s number one piece of advice is simple: trust and value matter more than price.
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Don’t always go with the cheapest quote—quality, reliability, and relationships last longer.
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Check Google reviews, referrals, and references to make sure the plumber has experience.
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Pay attention to how they talk about the job—can they explain things clearly and confidently?
“Value isn’t just about cost,” Chad says. “It’s about the quality of work, how long it lasts, and the relationship you build with your contractor.”
The Future of Plumbing
Looking ahead, Chad sees AI and automation continuing to shape the industry. From 3D modeling for better planning to smart sensors in homes, plumbing will become more precise, efficient, and environmentally conscious. But one thing won’t change: the need for skilled tradespeople to get hands-on and make it all work.
Final Thoughts
Chad’s story is a reminder that success in trades isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s about building trust, embracing new technology, and solving problems that matter to people and businesses.
If you’re a homeowner or business in the Fraser Valley looking for reliable plumbing services, you can find Chad at:
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Website: https://patonplumbingworx.ca/
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Instagram & Facebook: Paton Plumbing Worx Inc
And of course, you can also discover Chad and other trusted local businesses on the Home Service BC directory.
Watch the video episode here:
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