Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

In nearly all jurisdictions, plumbers must hold an active license. Licensed workmanship helps ensure safe gas, venting, and hot water systems.

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

When selecting a plumbing professional, make sure to discuss these important questions:

What licensing do you hold?Any fee for quotes?Flat bid possible?Are techs licensed?How is damage handled?Emergency availability?Cleanup included?Do you guarantee work?

Covering these items now can save time, money, and frustration later.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

A tidy workspace free of boxes, clutter, and trash helps plumbers do their job more effectively. A clean sink or toilet makes diagnosing problems easier.

Children should be directed to another activity.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Most plumbing repairs average $325 per service call, with a price range spanning from $175 to $4,000+.

Common price examples:

Toilet replacement: $150–400
Burst main line: $1,000–4,000+
Drain flush: $100–275
Tank repair: $200–600
Tap change: $150–350

Labor rates in your region, the urgency of the call (standard vs emergency), and access to the work area can raise or lower the price.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners commonly see about $100/hr for plumbing labor, though $45–$200/hr is possible depending on scope and skill.

Common Rate Structure:

Standard labor band: $45–$200/hr
Priority response: $150+/hr
Diagnostic fee: $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

For most homeowners, minor plumbing fixes wrap up in a few hours the same day. Examples range from shower head swaps to P-trap replacements and minor leak repairs. Whole-home repipes, sewer replacements, or slab leak repairs can span multiple days due to access and restoration. Always discuss timeline expectations with your plumber during the estimate phase.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If a quick DIY fix is turning into a bigger job, it's a good moment to involve a licensed plumber.

Professional help is advised for:

Sudden drop in pressure
Leak in sealed chases
Non-DIY tool requirements
Structural penetrations needed
Scalding/steam/gas hazards

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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