Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most states require plumbers to be licensed, and for good reason. Unlicensed plumbing can result in inadequate work quality, significant future costs, and building code non-compliance.

The "Angi Approved" designation confirms businesses meet our certification requirements: comprehensive background clearance, appropriate licensing verification, minimum 3.0 rating standard, advertising contribution, and eligibility criteria satisfaction. Important: Licensing is mandatory.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

A brief interview with any plumber should cover the following topics:

Proof of license and insurance available?Do you charge for quotes?Flat rate vs hourly—what do you use?Are technicians certified?How do you handle damages?Typical emergency response window?Is cleanup part of the service?Do you guarantee workmanship?

Transparency on these topics helps prevent scope creep.

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. Beyond general tidying, specifically cleaning the affected plumbing fixture or area is recommended.

Secure pets and monitor children to stay clear of the work space once the plumbing technician starts working.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Most plumbing repairs cost around $325 per service, with prices potentially ranging from $175 to $4,000+.

Common price examples:

Toilet internal leak: $150–$400
Sudden pipe burst: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain clearing call: $100–$275
Heater fix & verify: $200–$600
Faucet service: $150–$350

Multiple trips for parts or specialty tools, as well as coordination with other trades, may impact price.

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:

Base hours: $45–$200/hr
Emergency hours: $150+/hr
Truck/service fee: $100–$350
Holiday uplift: +25–50%

Costs are affected by the plumber's experience, local market rates, time of service, and difficulty of the repair required.

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. Speed list: swap a disposal, unclog a kitchen sink, or reset a loose toilet. Large remodels involving kitchen and bath reconfiguration typically run days to weeks. Confirming where shutoffs and cleanouts are located speeds work.

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:

Fixture movement or wobble
Leaks at inaccessible joints
Equipment beyond DIY kits
Fitting/thread rework required
Work affecting gas/steam lines

Perfectly fine to acknowledge when you need professional guidance. If the project demands exceed your expertise, seek professional help.

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