Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, legitimate plumbing businesses operate under state licenses. Unlicensed work often means poor craftsmanship, expensive future repairs, and possible legal violations.

As you browse our pro listings, take note of the "Angi Approved" badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards which include: background checks, required licenses, 3.0+ star ratings, advertising participation, and meeting eligibility criteria. Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

These due-diligence questions help you choose a trustworthy plumbing pro:

What licenses/insurance do you carry?Are quotes firm or estimates only?Pricing model and minimum charges?Who exactly will do the work?Damage liability and resolution?After-hours emergency availability?Cleanup responsibilities?Warranty duration and coverage?

These answers help lock in schedule and scope.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

You can save money and time if the plumber doesn’t have to move clutter first. Plus, giving extra attention to cleaning the problem area itself, such as a clogged drain or leaking fixture, is beneficial.

Ensure young children are always supervised.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

The general cost pattern is $175 minimum, $4,000 maximum, $325 average.

Common price examples:

Routine toilet work: $150-$400
Emergency pipe damage: $1,000-$4,000+
Drain maintenance: $100-$275
Heater maintenance: $200-$600
Faucet maintenance: $150-$350

The contractor’s experience level, crew size, and overhead structure influence rate sheets.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Time-and-materials jobs average near $100/hr, with variance between $45 and $200/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Regular hourly: $45-$200
Emergency hourly: $150 minimum
Trip fee: $100-$350
Holiday rates: Increased pricing

Rates are influenced by the plumber's experience level, geographic location, time of service, and complexity of the repair job.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

Straightforward service items rarely exceed a few hours on site. Common examples are sink installation, pipe or toilet drain cleaning, and dishwasher hookup. Large custom homes with long pipe runs simply take more time to service. Temporary water shutoff planning can reduce disruption time.

Question 7

When should I call a plumber instead of DIY-ing my project?

Accepted Answer

If you’re uncomfortable with the risks involved, a licensed pro is the safest option.

Professional help is advised for:

Water heater issues or error codes
Leaks at main shutoff or meter
Code/permit implications likely
Cutting concrete or tile needed
Combustion venting considerations

There's nothing wrong with admitting you need a little extra help. If your project is more complicated than you thought, consider hiring a professional.

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