Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Regulators in most states require plumbers to be licensed. Choosing an unlicensed plumber risks subpar workmanship, expensive future repairs, and possible building code violations.

Our "Angi Approved" badge indicates professionals who satisfy our standards: successful background assessment, required licensing compliance, 3.0 or better rating average, regular advertising activity, and requirement fulfillment. Key point: State licensing is compulsory.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Set clear expectations by discussing these critical questions upfront:

Can you show proof of current license and insurance?Are estimates complimentary?Do you bill flat fee or hourly?Will licensed plumbers be on site?What’s your policy on damage or breakage?Do you handle emergencies after hours?Is site cleanup included in the quote?What guarantees do you offer?

A brief Q&A sets expectations and protects your investment.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

A prepared workspace means your plumber can get straight to fixing the problem. Additionally, cleaning the specific area requiring service, such as a toilet or sink, is highly recommended.

Pets scratching or jumping may cause accidents.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Average plumbing service calls come to $325, with some as low as $175 or as high as $4,000.

Common price examples:

Toilet mechanisms: $150–$400
Burst pipe mitigation: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain augering: $100–$275
Heater elements: $200–$600
New faucet install: $150–$350

Fixture quality (budget vs premium), finish choices, and compatibility with existing systems can change pricing.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Plan for roughly $100 per hour; apprenticeships, licensing, and tooling influence the $45–$200/hr spread.

Common Rate Structure:

Published rate: $45–$200/hr
Emergency window rate: $150+/hr
Truck/service fee: $100–$350
Holiday premium: 25–50%

Rates vary based on the professional's qualifications, geographic location, service timing, and complexity of the plumbing issue.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

Many light-duty plumbing tasks can be turned around in just a few hours. Short-duration tasks include replacing a fill valve, clearing a tub drain, or swapping a kitchen faucet. Exterior trenching, weather delays, or utility locates may push outdoor plumbing timelines. Protecting floors and clearing counters reduces setup time.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If shutting off a valve doesn’t stop the problem, reach out to a qualified plumber.

Professional help is advised for:

Metallic taste/discoloration
Leak above panel/fixtures
Thermal/camera inspection
Pipe rerouting scope
Hot water/steam involvement

Absolutely acceptable to realize when professional support is beneficial. If the work is more intricate than expected, hire an expert.

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