Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

It’s common—and required—for plumbers to hold a license. Licensed pros are trained to meet code, carry insurance, and stand behind their work—reducing your risk.

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

To set the project up for success, discuss these points first:

Licensed and insured for residential work?Free or paid on-site estimate?Flat rate menu or hourly billing?Who signs off on the job quality?Handling of incidental damage?Emergency hotline response?Waste removal included?Written warranty terms?

Transparency on these topics helps prevent scope creep.

Question 3

Should I clean before the plumber comes?

Accepted Answer

Remove tripping hazards like boxes or loose items to keep the work safe. Wiping down sinks or toilets before the plumber arrives is a good habit.Secure your pets in a comfortable area away from work.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

On average, plumbing repair services cost approximately $325 per project, with prices ranging from $175 to over $4,000.

Common price examples:

Toilet wax ring: $150–$400
Basement burst cleanup: $1,000–$4,000+
Drain obstruction removal: $100–$275
Heater leak isolation: $200–$600
Faucet supply/replace: $150–$350

Multiple trips for parts or specialty tools, as well as coordination with other trades, may impact price.

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:

Normal labor: $45–$200/hr
Off-hour labor: $150+/hr
Visit/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

Common fixture swaps or tune-ups often finish in two to three hours. Brief jobs: adjust float valves, replace supply hoses, or rebed a toilet. Large remodels involving kitchen and bath reconfiguration typically run days to weeks. Ask whether permits are required and who will obtain them.

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:

Sudden leak escalation
Drips in ceilings/floors
Acoustic/IR locating
Pipe section renewals
Gas/steam system presence

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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