Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

In nearly all jurisdictions, plumbers must hold an active license. Licensed firms typically carry liability and workers’ comp insurance to protect you.

Our "Angi Approved" badge signifies businesses that satisfy our certification standards: clean criminal background verification, proper state and local licensing, 3.0 or higher rating average, regular advertising commitment, and compliance with all criteria. Remember: Licensing is regulatory.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

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

Up-to-date license and insurance?Estimate validity period?Do you price by task?Who will supervise apprentices?Liability for incidental damage?Fast-track emergency visits?Debris removal covered?Warranty documentation?

Confirming these points leads to smoother site work and cleanup.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

A tidy workspace free of boxes, clutter, and trash helps plumbers do their job more effectively. The more hygienic the worksite, the smoother the visit goes.

Children may slip on wet floors, so keep them away.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing bills generally cluster near $325, though complexity drives the $175–$4,000 range.

Common price examples:

Unclogging toilets: $150–$400
Pipe bursts (major): $1,000–$4,000+
Drain snake services: $100–$275
Hot water heater fix: $200–$600
Faucet swap: $150–$350

Older homes with tight spaces or nonstandard layouts may require more labor, increasing total cost.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners commonly see about $100/hr for plumbing labor, though $45–$200/hr is possible depending on scope and skill.

Common Rate Structure:

Daytime rate: $45–$200/hr
After-hours: $150+/hr
Dispatch fee: $100–$350
Holidays: +25–50%

Rates are determined by the professional's experience, geographic area, service timing, and complexity of the plumbing problem.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

For most homeowners, minor plumbing fixes wrap up in a few hours the same day. Like installing new sinks, removing pipe or toilet clogs, and setting up dishwashers. Code-required testing and commissioning (pressure, leak, combustion) add scheduled steps. Ask for a written timeline on larger projects for clarity.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If a quick DIY fix is turning into a bigger job, it's a good moment to involve a licensed plumber.

Professional help is advised for:

Unexpected pipe damage severity
Leaks in hard-to-reach spaces
Tasks needing specialized tools
Work involving pipe section replacement
Jobs with hot water, steam, or gas requirements

Perfectly acceptable to admit when you need professional backup. If the work is more complicated than planned, hire a qualified plumber.

Plumber Near Me in Ellington, Connecticut | 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services

Quality Plumbing Solutions

Reliable Sewer Line Experts covering Ellington, Connecticut