Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Plumbing licenses are mandatory in most states to ensure quality and safety. Unlicensed plumbers risk delivering substandard work, creating costly future issues, and incurring code violation penalties.

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

Use these questions to evaluate experience, pricing, and policies:

Can you verify license/insurance documents?Is the initial visit free?Do you cap hourly costs or offer flat rates?Who supervises the work on site?What happens if something is damaged?Emergency callout timeframes?Is cleanup/disposal included?Warranty terms in writing?

This conversation establishes mutual understanding and sets the stage for successful collaboration.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Prior to your plumber's arrival, we recommend clearing away any clutter, boxes, or debris that might obstruct their work area. Moreover, it's wise to clean the precise location that needs attention, whether it's a toilet, drain, or pipe section.

Pets should be secured to prevent them from interfering.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Average household plumbing repair is roughly $325, within a $175–$4,000+ band.

Common price examples:

Quick toilet repair: $150–400
Major pipe burst: $1,000–4,000+
Drain cleaning service: $100–275
Water heater work: $200–600
Tap repair: $150–350

The specific repair needed, property size, and plumbing materials influence costs. Economic factors like supply chain disruptions and material shortages also impact pricing.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Typically, plumbers charge approximately $100 per hour, with rates ranging from $45 to $200 hourly based on their expertise and the specific repair required.

Common Rate Structure:

Regular schedule: $45–$200/hr
After-hours premium: $150+/hr
Trip/dispatch: $100–$350
Holiday fee: 25–50% increase

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

The majority of basic residential plumbing repairs typically take just a few hours to complete. Fast jobs include swapping cartridges, resetting a toilet, or fixing a leaky faucet. Some plumbing scenarios require substantially longer timelines. Such as those involving demolition to access pipes, excavation for gas line service, or custom-ordered parts and materials. Consider temporary fixtures to keep areas usable during work.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When your DIY plumbing efforts aren't progressing as expected, it's probably time to call a professional.

Professional help is advised for:

Recurrent leaks after DIY fixes
Moisture behind finishes detected
Professional-grade tools required
Modifying existing pipe layouts
High-temperature/pressure systems

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 55113, Saint Paul, Minnesota | 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services

Trusted Plumbing Services

Professional Sump Pump Experts based in 55113, Saint Paul, Minnesota