Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

State licensing is widely recognized as essential for plumbers. Licensed plumbers can provide written guarantees that hold legal weight.

The "Angi Approved" designation guarantees our listed professionals meet strict criteria: successful background screening, current licensing compliance, minimum 3.0 review average, active advertising status, and full eligibility requirements met. Key difference: Licensing is legally mandatory.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

To ensure you choose the best plumber for your needs, consider asking these key questions:

Licensed for gas/water lines?Free site assessment?Transparent pricing policy?Experience with my fixture/brand?What if access causes damage?Priority emergency slots?Surface protection and cleanup?Warranty scope?

Confirming these points leads to smoother site work and cleanup.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Your plumber will thank you for providing a clean, easy-to-access space. Cleaning the area protects both the plumber and your household.

Ensure minors and animals are restrained from entering the work zone while the plumber is on site.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing costs are highly variable, but $325 is the midpoint of a $175–$4,000 spread.

Common price examples:

Toilet leaks: $150–$400
Burst pipe fixes: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain blockages: $100–$275
Heater repair: $200–$600
Fixture 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

Rate bands vary, but $100/hr remains a common midpoint.

Common Rate Structure:

Weekday rate: $45–$200/hr
Weekend/late: $150+/hr
Travel fee: $100–$350
Holiday surcharge: 25–50%

Pricing depends on the plumber's skill set, local market conditions, time of service, and job difficulty level.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

Short-duration service calls often start and finish within hours. Quick scope items: aerator fixes, trap cleanouts, and basic fixture installs. Code-required testing and commissioning (pressure, leak, combustion) add scheduled steps. Note any known asbestos/lead so proper steps are scheduled.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When you’re not confident about soldering or threading, let a pro handle it.

Professional help is advised for:

Water hammer or banging persists
Leaks within slabs or crawlspaces
Specialized diagnostic tools required
Pipe rerouting or re-piping scope
Gas, steam, or scalding risk present

Absolutely nothing wrong with seeking help when needed. If the project complexity exceeds your skills, consider professional services.

Plumber Near Me in Cedar Lake, Indiana | 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services

Expert Plumbing Services

Fast Toilet Repair Professionals covering Cedar Lake, Indiana