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Martin Lelong, 36 years old – Independent plumber – Based in La Baule
Serving the area from Le Croisic to Saint-Nazaire.
CAREER CHANGE
Formerly an administrative manager in an engineering services company, Martin gradually lost the sense of purpose in his work. He decided to pursue a more hands-on and meaningful career, driven by the desire to work for himself and make a living from a useful trade.
He completed a professional ITS qualification (Thermal and Sanitary Installer) at École Gustave in Paris through a one-year apprenticeship program within a small company that quickly entrusted him with responsibilities.
After a highly formative first year, he headed for the coast: moving to La Baule, spending another year working for a major company, and finally taking the long-awaited leap into entrepreneurship.
Today, a year and a half after launching his business, he manages his own schedule, chooses his projects, and carefully maintains a healthy work-life balance.
“The only real downside? Sometimes, physically working alone can be tough.”
When it comes to administration and business management, Martin feels confident: quotes and invoices are handled through Tolteck, and he benefits from valuable day-to-day support:
“My wife helps me — I’m lucky.”
WHAT DRIVES HIM
Customer satisfaction comes first.
Martin mainly handles repairs — water heaters, leaks, toilet flushes — as well as small plumbing projects such as kitchen plumbing installations based on design plans or pipe modifications.
“Seeing immediate customer satisfaction is what I enjoy most.”
Whenever possible, he prefers repairing rather than replacing equipment — an eco-conscious approach he highlights on his website and one his customers genuinely appreciate.
No two days are alike:
“I schedule according to incoming calls, spend the day on-site, and evenings are for quotes and admin work. You have to stay curious and adapt to every situation.”
TOOLS AND ORGANIZATION
One essential tool: a compact van — easy to park, yet spacious enough to carry all his equipment — gradually customized over time.
His plumber’s toolkit includes: pipe cutters, blowtorch, pipe bender, tape measure, adjustable wrench, and more.
He also keeps a close eye on innovations that “make life easier.”
HIS PRODUCT CHOICES
One of his favorite products from VALENTIN:
“The SMART ultra-flat shower drain is really interesting. Customers want shower trays as low as possible, and this drain is one of the flattest available on the market.”
His number one criterion: durability.
“When a product works well and lasts over time, I know I can trust it.”
ADVICE FOR PEOPLE CONSIDERING A CAREER CHANGE
“Prepare yourself properly… then go for it!”
Martin recommends multiplying sources of information and support: Chambers of Trades, Chambers of Commerce, trade fairs, and continuing education.
“There are as many problems as there are customers. I learn through suppliers, manufacturer catalogs, fellow tradespeople… Curiosity is essential.”
WHAT HIS CUSTOMERS SAY
“Thank you for the explanations, responsiveness, availability… and fair pricing!”
In today’s economic climate, Martin has noticed that customers want two things: fair prices and a clear understanding of what they are paying for.
HOW TO FIND HIM
Website: plomberiedelabaie.com
Instagram: @plomberiedelabaie44
Many requests also come through word of mouth… and thanks to Google!
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