Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing is not a DIY trade at scale—licensing is required. 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

Make informed decisions by discussing these important questions with potential plumbers:

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 enter the project with confidence and fewer unknowns.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Making room for the plumber ensures the job can start right away. Moreover, it's wise to clean the precise location that needs attention, whether it's a toilet, drain, or pipe section.

Make sure pets don’t chew on hoses or tools.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

Plumbing costs are highly variable, but $325 is the midpoint of a $175–$4,000 spread.

Common price examples:

Toilet fill valve swap: $150–400
Main feed burst: $1,000–4,000+
Drain service visit: $100–275
Water heater repair call: $200–600
Faucet set change: $150–350

Water damage mitigation, drying, or remediation after leaks or bursts can substantially add to expenses.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

Even with flat-rate pricing, effective labor averages ≈$100/hr.

Common Rate Structure:

Standard hours: $45–$200/hr
Peak/emergency: $150+/hr
Service callout: $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

Minor repairs with good access tend to finish within a few hours. Short-turn tasks: replace braided lines, reseal escutcheons, or clean aerators. Complex reroutes around framing or slabs demand more hours and careful sequencing. Ensure attic/crawlspace access is safe and unobstructed.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

When safety, compliance, and long-term reliability matter most, hire a professional.

Professional help is advised for:

Sudden drop in pressure
Leak in sealed chases
Non-DIY tool requirements
Structural penetrations needed
Scalding/steam/gas hazards

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.

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