Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, licenses help enforce safety and building codes. Licensed pros use approved methods and materials matched to your local code.

Our "Angi Approved" professionals undergo thorough vetting including: comprehensive background checks, verification of all required licenses, maintenance of 3.0+ star ratings, regular advertising activity, and adherence to eligibility standards. Important distinction: Licensing is a legal necessity.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Before accepting a bid, request answers to these topics:

Are you licensed, insured, bonded?Is the quote itemized?Flat vs hourly—recommendation?Will you subcontract anything?What if walls/floors are damaged?Emergency ETA range?Do you cover dust containment?Warranty claim steps?

This conversation establishes mutual understanding and sets the stage for successful collaboration.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning the area in advance helps avoid unnecessary complications. A tidy repair site reflects well on the homeowner.Children should avoid testing faucets during work.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

The typical cost for plumbing repairs is around $325, though prices can vary from $175 up to $4,000 or higher.

Common price examples:

Toilet running fix: $150–$400
Catastrophic pipe burst: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain clean-out: $100–$275
Heater leak repair: $200–$600
Faucet replacement set: $150–$350

The specific repair needed, property size, and plumbing materials influence costs. Economic factors like supply chain disruptions and material shortages also impact pricing.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

A clear rule of thumb: target $100/hr for planning.

Common Rate Structure:

Base: $45–$200/hr
After-hours: $150+/hr
Visit fee: $100–$350
Holiday: premium applies

Costs vary based on the technician's qualifications, regional market rates, service timing, and repair complexity.

Question 6

How long do plumbers take to complete a plumbing job?

Accepted Answer

Simple, single-scope plumbing tasks typically run a few hours. Typical tasks include hose bib repairs, trap reseals, and simple fixture installations. Some plumbing scenarios require substantially longer timelines. Such as those involving demolition to access pipes, excavation for gas line service, or custom-ordered parts and materials. Protecting floors and clearing counters reduces setup time.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If you can’t guarantee a watertight seal, bring in a licensed plumber.

Professional help is advised for:

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

No shame in acknowledging when you could use some expert support. If the job is more involved than anticipated, a professional plumber can help.

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