Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most states require plumbers to be licensed, and for good reason. Unlicensed plumbers may provide inferior work, lead to costly subsequent repairs, and risk regulatory violations.

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

To set expectations on service and follow-up, ask this:

Are you insured and licensed for this jurisdiction?Any diagnostic fees?How is pricing calculated?What is the crew’s experience level?Policy for accidental breakage?Emergency service policy?Will you remove debris afterward?What warranties apply?

It lays the groundwork for a clean close-out.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Before your plumber pays you a visit, it's a good idea to clean up any boxes, garbage, or other obstacles that could be in their way. Along with general cleanup, focusing on sanitizing the actual work site, like under sinks or around toilets, is important.

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

Common plumbing repair prices average $325, but scope matters ($175–$4,000).

Common price examples:

Toilet handle/chain: $150–400
Copper line rupture: $1,000–4,000+
Drain clog relief: $100–275
Heater component fix: $200–600
Faucet hardware swap: $150–350

Parking restrictions, elevator access, or condo logistics may extend labor hours.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

The average cost to hire a plumber is around $100 an hour but can vary between $45 and $200 an hour depending on the plumber's experience and the repair that you need.

Common Rate Structure:

Posted labor: $45–$200/hr
Priority labor: $150+/hr
Service/visit: $100–$350
Holiday uplift: 25–50%

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

Most simple, residential plumbing jobs and repairs can be completed within a few hours. Brief examples: replace a faucet cartridge, clean a pop-up, or reseal a lav drain. Unexpected permit revisions or plan checks can push schedules out. Have paint/patch plans ready for faster closeout.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If your DIY plumbing project isn't going according to plan, it may be time to bring in a professional.

Professional help is advised for:

Unexpectedly widespread pipe damage
Leaks in difficult access areas
Jobs requiring specialized equipment
Pipe cutting or replacement tasks
Work involving hot water, steam, or gas systems

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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