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In the town of Barrington, a unique story of reinvention and resilience has given rise to one of the area’s most trusted plumbing and heating companies. Barrington Plumbing and Heating, founded in 2006 by Jim Kazounis, is not just a business but a testament to the power of hard work, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence.

Jim’s journey into the plumbing industry is anything but conventional. Originally a successful chef and restaurateur in Providence, his life took a dramatic turn at age 40 when financial setbacks forced him to reevaluate his career path. Following the advice of his brother, a plumber in Charleston, Jim embarked on a journey that would ultimately change his life. “I started out cleaning trucks,” Jim recalls. “Next thing I knew, I was going to night school for plumbing, cooking at night, and working during the day.” What began as a practical choice soon blossomed into a passion for a trade that combines technical expertise with customer service—skills Jim honed during his years in the restaurant business.

Today, Barrington Plumbing and Heating is a thriving enterprise with eight trucks and a team of highly trained professionals. Specializing in plumbing and heating systems, the company serves primarily residential clients but also takes on select commercial projects, particularly for restaurants. Jim’s background as a chef uniquely positions him to understand the nuances of commercial kitchen plumbing, making the company a favorite among local restaurateurs.

A Commitment to Craftsmanship and Mentorship

What truly sets Barrington Plumbing and Heating apart is its unwavering focus on training and mentorship. Jim has built a team that values pride in craftsmanship, respect for the trade, and a commitment to excellence. “It’s not just about plumbing,” Jim emphasizes. “We teach pride in a skill set, pride in your work, and respect for your trade and others.”

This philosophy is embedded in the company’s apprentice program, which trains young professionals from the ground up. From covering the cost of schooling and licensing to providing tools, clothing, and boots, Jim ensures that his apprentices have everything they need to succeed. “We’re investing in their future,” he says. “And in turn, they become the next generation of skilled tradespeople.”

The company’s approach is paying dividends. With a team of highly motivated and well-trained individuals, Barrington Plumbing and Heating has earned a stellar 4.9-star rating on Google with over 100 reviews. What’s remarkable is that these reviews are entirely organic. “We don’t actively solicit reviews,” Jim explains. “People post because they’re genuinely surprised and delighted by our service.”

Adapting to Change in a Dynamic Industry

Over nearly two decades, the plumbing and heating industry has undergone significant changes, from the introduction of high-efficiency heating systems to the rise of smart home technologies. Jim’s team stays ahead of the curve by continually training and adapting to these advancements. “Your boiler can talk to you, your water heater can talk to you,” Jim notes. “We have to know how to install and fix these technologies while maintaining our focus on quality workmanship.”

Despite technological advancements, Jim believes that the human touch remains irreplaceable. “You’re never going to get a robot to troubleshoot and fix your toilet,” he says with a smile. The company’s emphasis on customer service—from taking off shoes before entering a home to explaining the work being done—ensures that clients feel valued and respected.

Rooted in Community

While Jim didn’t originally move to Barrington to start a plumbing company, the town has become an integral part of his story. His wife, a Barrington native, wanted to raise their family in her hometown. “It wasn’t like I came to Barrington to start a business,” Jim says. “I came to raise my kids.” The community’s need for reliable plumbing services during a housing boom in the early 2000s provided the perfect opportunity for Jim to grow his business organically.

Today, Barrington Plumbing and Heating serves primarily the East Bay area, including Riverside, East Providence, and parts of Aquidneck Island. The company’s reputation for trustworthiness and quality has made it a go-to choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

Looking Ahead

At 65, Jim shows no signs of slowing down. “I love growing my company and watching my team grow,” he says. While the challenges of running a small business—from regulatory hurdles to economic uncertainty—are ever-present, Jim remains optimistic about the future. “As long as we keep investing in our people and sticking to our principles, we’ll continue to thrive.”

Barrington Plumbing and Heating stands as great example of excellence in the trades, proving that with hard work, a commitment to quality, and a focus on mentorship, a small business can make a big impact.

This story is proudly sponsored by Elmwood CDJR and the L’Archevesque family, who are dedicated to supporting locally owned businesses throughout the East Bay. Running a small business takes passion and hard work, and Elmwood CDJR is committed to putting a spotlight on the people and places that make our community thrive.