Building code requirements are in place to protect the health and welfare of buildings, structures and the public and can change over time. When new plumbing work is performed, the licensed plumber is required to perform the work in accordance with current code requirements. Particularly in the case of replacement of old equipment, code improvements are often required by applicable state and local codes and ordinances and are performed to protect you. Another reason that code improvements could be needed is if the previous work was performed by an unlicensed plumber or “handyman” and not completed according to code in the first place.