Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing is a licensed trade in the vast majority of areas. Unlicensed fixes may mask deeper issues, causing larger failures later.

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 ensure accountability from day one, discuss the following:

Are permits included if needed?Do you charge to quote?Fixed price for the scope?Will a master plumber attend?Damage liability clarity?Emergency call protocol?Cleanup/disposal scope?Written warranty?

You’ll avoid miscommunication and last-minute changes.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Minimizing obstacles in the workspace makes the plumber’s job easier and quicker. Sanitizing bathrooms in advance is a thoughtful step.

For safety reasons, ensure kids and animals are kept away from the plumbing work area throughout the visit.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

The typical U.S. homeowner spends about $325 for plumbing repairs, within $175–$4,000 overall.

Common price examples:

Toilet running noise: $150–400
Burst line remediation: $1,000–4,000+
Drain clog assistance: $100–275
Heater repair session: $200–600
Faucet replacement kit: $150–350

Safety measures (containment, PPE, scaffolding) for certain jobs can alter the final bill.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

A fair expectation is $100/hr, adjusting for travel, tools, and complexity between $45 and $200/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Regular hourly rate: $45–$200
Emergency hourly rate: $150+
Trip fee range: $100–$350
Holiday surcharge range: 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

Standard service calls for minor issues usually last a few hours at most. Quick line-up: replace a shutoff, reseal a toilet base, or clear a shower drain. Septic or well system tie-ins may add separate, longer-duration steps. Weekend or after-hours work can shorten calendar time at a premium.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When your tools or skills hit their limit, a professional can complete the job safely and quickly.

Professional help is advised for:

Extensive pipe damage beyond expectations
Leaks in inaccessible locations
Tasks needing specialized plumbing equipment
Work involving pipe section replacement
Jobs with hot water, steam, or gas involvement

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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