Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most states require plumbers to be licensed, and for good reason. Licensed plumbers are trained to protect backflow and water quality.

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

Before finding the right plumber for your job, there are a few questions that you should ask, including:

Proof of bond, license, insurance?Complimentary quote?Flat fee available?Who supervises?Damage process?Emergency policy?Cleanup scope?Warranty scope?

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

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Before your plumber pays you a visit, it's a good idea to clean up any boxes, garbage, or other obstacles that could be in their way. Clean plumbing fixtures reduce distractions during repair.

Keep the plumber’s path clear of toys and pets.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Quick fixes may run $175, while bigger repairs can hit $4,000, with $325 as the mean cost.

Common price examples:

Toilet job: $150–400
Burst pipe: $1,000–4,000+
Drain service: $100–275
Heater repair: $200–600
Faucet job: $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

The average cost to hire a plumber is around $100 an hour but can vary between $45 and $200 an hour depending on the plumber's experience and the repair that you need.

Common Rate Structure:

Normal billing: $45–$200/hr
Emergency billing: $150+ hr
Service call fee: $100–$350
Holiday uplift: 25–50%

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

Most simple, residential plumbing jobs and repairs can be completed within a few hours. Often it’s drain snaking, minor seal replacements, or connecting a new dishwasher. Exterior trenching, weather delays, or utility locates may push outdoor plumbing timelines. Having a decision-maker on site accelerates issue resolution.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If your DIY plumbing project isn't going according to plan, it may be time to bring in a professional.

Professional help is advised for:

Greater pipe damage than anticipated
Leaks in inaccessible locations
Jobs requiring expert equipment
Pipe cutting or fitting work
Projects involving hot water, steam, or gas

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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