Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a license verifies competency, safety, and code knowledge. Licensed techs are trained for soldering, brazing, and pressure testing to spec.

Our "Angi Approved" professionals are rigorously screened for: completed criminal background checks, current licensing status, 3.0+ average rating maintenance, active advertising engagement, and eligibility standards compliance. Note: Licensing is legally required.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Prioritize clarity by asking your contractor the following:

Proper licensing documentation?Complimentary estimate?Flat rate availability?Credentials of the crew?Damage policy details?Emergency response policy?Cleanup included by default?Warranty coverage?

With these questions answered, you can compare bids apples-to-apples.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Set your plumber up for success by providing a clear, obstacle-free work area. Ensure no food waste is left in kitchen sinks before service.

It's important to secure pets and supervise children away from the work area once the plumbing professional begins.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

A plumber’s invoice often totals $325, though you may see as low as $175 or $4,000+.

Common price examples:

Toilet adjustment: $150–400
Burst pipe fix: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain unclogging: $100–275
Water heater tune-up: $200–600
Faucet replacement: $150–350

Travel distance, minimum service fees, and after-hours surcharges often influence the final invoice.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Licensed pros commonly bill ~$100/hr; masters or specialized techs trend higher within $45–$200/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Base labor: $45–$200/hr
Urgent call: $150+/hr
Travel/van fee: $100–$350
Holiday uplift: 25–50%

Pricing factors include the technician's expertise, regional economics, service timing, and job complexity.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

Most uncomplicated plumbing fixes are handled in one visit lasting a few hours. For instance, sink installation, clearing blocked pipes or toilets, and dishwasher installation. Hidden issues discovered during demolition (corrosion, rot, mold) can increase overall timelines. Ask for a written timeline on larger projects for clarity.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If temporary fixes keep failing, a professional repair will solve the root cause.

Professional help is advised for:

Repeated clogs post-repair
Moisture in wall cavities
Camera/locator tools needed
Replace multiple fittings
Boiler/heater interfaces

No issue with admitting when you require professional input. If the job is more complex than initially thought, call a specialist.

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