Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Most places won’t allow plumbing work without a valid license. Code-compliant, licensed work reduces the chance of leaks, mold, or water damage.

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 smart homeowner’s checklist includes questions like these:

Licenses/insurance valid through project?Estimate turnaround and cost?Pricing rules for extras?Who manages quality control?Damage policy in contract?Weekend emergency service?Cleanup standards?Warranty transferability?

Getting clear answers reduces risk and keeps the project on track.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Creating a clean and open area in advance saves time once the plumber gets there. Keeping the drain area clean is courteous and practical.

Make sure to keep kids and pets out of the way once the plumber arrives.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Most customers report plumbing repair bills averaging $325, with extremes at $175 and $4,000.

Common price examples:

Minor toilet repair: $150–$400
Pipe break emergency: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain opening: $100–$275
Heater service: $200–$600
Fixture replacement: $150–$350

Permits, inspections, and code compliance for certain jobs may add fees and extend timelines, affecting overall cost.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Baseline plumber labor often centers on $100/hr, but experience and urgency push rates to $45–$200/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Standard window: $45–$200/hr
Nights/weekends: $150+ hr
Call-out: $100–$350
Holiday uplift: up to +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

Most non-invasive plumbing repairs take only a couple of hours to complete. Such as fitting new sinks, unblocking pipes or toilets, and installing dishwashers. Permitting, inspections, and coordination with other trades can extend duration beyond the core plumbing work. Pre-authorizing a parts budget can avoid extra trips for approvals.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When water keeps showing up where it shouldn't, it's time to get an expert involved.

Professional help is advised for:

DIY fix keeps failing
Hidden moisture keeps spreading
Diagnostic equipment needed
Re-piping or rerouting scope
Work tied to hot water, steam, or gas

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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