Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing is not a DIY trade at scale—licensing is required. Unlicensed plumbing can result in inadequate work quality, significant future costs, and building code non-compliance.

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

A brief Q&A with your plumber should include these points:

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?

You’ll know exactly what to expect on day one.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Making room for the plumber ensures the job can start right away. Beyond general tidying, specifically cleaning the affected plumbing fixture or area is recommended.

Pets can get stressed—keep them in another room while service is underway.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

You’ll likely pay about $325, but costs can run $175–$4,000.

Common price examples:

Toilet wobble/leak: $150–400
Burst copper/PVC: $1,000–4,000+
Drain slow flow: $100–275
Water heater service kit: $200–600
Tap/faucet install: $150–350

Local building codes and inspection schedules can affect sequencing and labor hours.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Even with flat-rate pricing, effective labor averages ≈$100/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Weekday: $45–$200/hr
Weekend: $150+/hr
Dispatch: $100–$350
Holiday: 25–50% more

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

Minor repairs with good access tend to finish within a few hours. Quick examples: replacing a faucet, clearing a simple main sink clog, or swapping a toilet flapper. Fixture relocations require new rough-ins, expanding the timeline beyond a single day. Confirm cleanup and haul-away expectations to save time.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When safety, compliance, and long-term reliability matter most, hire a professional.

Professional help is advised for:

Brown water after work
Ceiling drip with no source
Electronic tracing needed
Pipe reroute around obstacles
Hot/steam/gas system tie-ins

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.

Plumber Near Me in 20903, Silver Spring, Maryland | 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services

Expert Plumbing Care

Professional Pipe Repair Assistance available in 20903, Silver Spring, Maryland