Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Working as a plumber typically requires passing licensing exams. Unlicensed practitioners may deliver poor work quality, lead to unexpected future expenses, and violate local building codes.

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

To validate qualifications and fit, discuss the questions below:

Are your license and insurance up to date?Do you provide written estimates?Flat-rate pricing or time & materials?Will the same team handle the job?How do you address accidental property damage?Do you offer 24/7 emergency service?Is post-job cleanup covered?What does your warranty cover?

These topics reduce surprises and disputes mid-project.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Prepare by removing any obstacles from the plumber’s likely work route. Also, sanitizing the immediate work area, particularly around toilets, sinks, or pipes, is good practice.

Children should stay clear of sharp plumbing equipment.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

On the low end, repairs may be $175; on the high end, $4,000+, with $325 as the average.

Common price examples:

Toilet flapper/valve: $150–400
Pipe break response: $1,000–4,000+
Drain clearing call: $100–275
Heater thermostat: $200–600
Faucet set replacement: $150–350

Contingencies for unforeseen conditions are often built into estimates to prevent surprises.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Permitted work and documentation can nudge rates above $100/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Normal service: $45–$200/hr
Emergency service: $150+ hr
Arrival/dispatch: $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

Typical non-invasive fixes usually conclude in a single short visit. Examples might be installing a disposal, unclogging a toilet, or replacing a leaky trap. Scheduling windows for inspections may insert unavoidable pauses between phases. Photos or videos sent ahead may streamline initial diagnostics.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When the issue appears after a freeze or major storm, call for professional evaluation.

Professional help is advised for:

Main service line issues
Hard-to-reach shutoff leaks
Professional testing needed
Cutting/patching required
Gas/hot water proximity

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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