Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

It’s common—and required—for plumbers to hold a license. Hiring an unlicensed plumber could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations.

Verify that the name on the license matches the entity performing the work.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

To avoid scope creep and hidden costs, raise these questions:

Are you licensed and insured?Do you offer free estimates?Is pricing flat-rate or hourly?Who will perform the work and are they certified?How do you handle accidental damage?What is your emergency response time?Is cleanup and haul-away included?Do you provide a workmanship warranty?

Your project benefits from clear standards and policies.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Remove tripping hazards like boxes or loose items to keep the work safe. In addition, it's best practice to clean the area that needs to be inspected or worked on, like a toilet, for example.

Children should be supervised during the plumber’s visit.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Budget-friendly jobs start at $175, while complex ones may exceed $4,000, average $325.

Common price examples:

Toilet clog/slow flush: $150–400
Attic pipe burst: $1,000–4,000+
Drain camera + clear (basic): $100–275
Heater temp control: $200–600
Faucet body replacement: $150–350

Soil conditions and exterior trenching needs can make underground repairs more expensive.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

A journeyman may bill ~ $100/hr; apprentices less, masters more (overall $45–$200/hr).

Common Rate Structure:

Standard labor: $45–$200/hr
Priority call: $150+/hr
Truck roll: $100–$350
Holiday bump: +25–50%

Fixture brand, quality level, and compatibility with existing lines affect time.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

Common fixture swaps or tune-ups often finish in two to three hours. Fast list: clear minor blockages, replace shutoffs, and install a new kitchen faucet. Water main or service upgrades require trenching and utility coordination. Keep communication lines open for rapid approvals.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When your DIY plan requires cutting walls or floors, consider hiring a pro.

Professional help is advised for:

Unknown code/permit needs
Leak near live wiring
Advanced tooling required
Structural opening needed
Any gas/steam involvement

Quality workmanship now avoids repeat breakdowns later.

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