Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, licensing helps ensure proper training and ethics. Unlicensed plumbers risk delivering substandard work, creating costly future issues, and incurring code violation penalties.

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 quick pre-hire checklist for your plumbing contractor should include questions like:

Can you verify license/insurance documents?Is the initial visit free?Do you cap hourly costs or offer flat rates?Who supervises the work on site?What happens if something is damaged?Emergency callout timeframes?Is cleanup/disposal included?Warranty terms in writing?

You’ll avoid miscommunication and last-minute changes.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Efficient plumbing starts with an accessible workspace. Moreover, it's wise to clean the precise location that needs attention, whether it's a toilet, drain, or pipe section.

Pets scratching or jumping may cause accidents.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing repairs usually cost around $325 but can reach $4,000 in complex cases.

Common price examples:

Toilet flapper/valve: $150–400
Pipe break response: $1,000–4,000+
Drain clearing call: $100–275
Heater thermostat: $200–600
Faucet set replacement: $150–350

Safety measures (containment, PPE, scaffolding) for certain jobs can alter the final bill.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

For quick budgeting, $100/hr is a reliable benchmark.

Common Rate Structure:

Normal service: $45–$200/hr
Emergency service: $150+ hr
Arrival/dispatch: $100–$350
Holiday uplift: 25–50%

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

Basic isolations and swaps generally complete within hours. Examples might be installing a disposal, unclogging a toilet, or replacing a leaky trap. Septic or well system tie-ins may add separate, longer-duration steps. Multiple plumbing issues discovered during service can extend the timeline.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

If you’re unsure how to restore water service safely, call a plumber.

Professional help is advised for:

Recurrent leaks after DIY fixes
Moisture behind finishes detected
Professional-grade tools required
Modifying existing pipe layouts
High-temperature/pressure systems

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.

Plumber Near Me in Lexington, Virginia | 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Services

Expert Plumbing Services

Emergency Plumbing Experts across Lexington, Virginia