Meet Jason Tart, the owner of Sunrise Plumbing and Water Filtration in North Port, Florida. He sat down with Entrepreneur to discuss his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and his advice for new entrepreneurs. His business serves Southwest Florida, including Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and Lee counties. With a new office in Punta Gorda, Jason is reaching more people in the area and improving water quality and plumbing services.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I grew up in Maryland, where I first got hands-on experience with trades at Eastern Technical School. Later, I started a custom home construction company, Sunrise Custom Homes, in Baltimore, which taught me a lot about plumbing and helped me build valuable connections. After moving to Florida in 2010, I worked with Roto-Rooter in Sarasota and eventually ran a ZPlumberz franchise. But I always wanted to create a business focused on long-term solutions and quality work. That’s how Sunrise Plumbing and Water Filtration started. Now, we help homeowners in North Port and nearby areas tackle water quality issues, which are common here.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
I realized that clients wanted more than quick fixes—they wanted solutions that would prevent future problems. In North Port, many homeowners were dealing with poor water quality, and I saw an opportunity to help by offering whole-house filtration systems. These systems are built to last and need minimal maintenance, which has become a core part of what we do at Sunrise Plumbing.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
Starting a business from scratch isn’t easy, especially moving from a franchise to an independent company. One of the biggest challenges was finding team members who shared our commitment to quality. Over time, I focused on hiring people who were not only skilled but also aligned with our values. Building a team that feels like family has been key to our success.
How has your leadership or innovation made a significant impact on your industry or community?
By focusing on comprehensive water filtration, we’ve been able to address a serious issue that affects health and comfort. We don’t just fix plumbing problems; we give people peace of mind by improving their water quality. We take time to educate clients about filtration and how our solutions can improve their homes. This has built trust with our clients and sets us apart from other plumbing services. I hope we’re making a positive difference, especially as the area grows.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
My top advice is to listen to your customers. Understand their problems, and don’t just offer generic solutions. Growth happens when you address real needs that others overlook. Also, remember the importance of your team. Hire people who are passionate about their work, and you’ll see the difference in your company’s success.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
One project I’m proud of was installing a whole-house filtration system for a neighborhood with severe water issues. We worked closely with homeowners to design a solution that was low-maintenance and long-lasting. The feedback was great, and it reminded me why I started this business—to solve real problems in a way that makes a difference. I am also expanding my portfolio to include Assett Commercial Services, a commercial cleaning franchise that I opened in Sarasota. I look forward to growing that business and forming new partnerships in the area.
Key Takeaways
Jason Tart shows how dedication to quality, innovation, and community can build a successful business. Starting as a home builder in Maryland, he became an independent business owner in Southwest Florida, valuing flexibility, vision, and customer satisfaction. Jason tackled local water quality problems by providing lasting solutions and building a team that shares his passion for service. Today, Sunrise Plumbing and Water Filtration is trusted across the region. His commitment to truly understanding and meeting client needs inspires new entrepreneurs who want to make a positive impact.
