Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most states require plumbers to be licensed, and for good reason. With a licensed plumber, permits, inspections, and warranties are handled properly and transparently.

Look for the "Angi Approved" certification in our professional listings. This badge indicates the business meets our rigorous standards: criminal background clearance, valid licensing, minimum 3.0 rating, active advertising, and compliance with all requirements. Note: State licensing is legally required.

Question 2

What questions should I ask a plumbing contractor?

Accepted Answer

To clarify pricing, staffing, and policies, use these questions:

Current license/insurance status?Estimate transparency and cost?Pricing method and overtime rules?Team qualifications/certifications?Damage claim procedure?Emergency response SLA?Cleanup scope and limits?Warranty coverage details?

A clear agreement upfront leads to better workmanship.

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. Keeping the plumbing fixture clean shows consideration for the technician.

Ensure minors and animals are restrained from entering the work zone while the plumber is on site.

Question 4

How much are typical plumbing repair costs?

Accepted Answer

On average, plumbing work totals $325, but not always—$175–$4,000 possible.

Common price examples:

Toilet clog/slow flush: $150–400
Attic pipe burst: $1,000–4,000+
Drain camera + clear (basic): $100–275
Heater temp control: $200–600
Faucet body replacement: $150–350

Diagnostic time, camera inspections, and leak detection steps are often billed and affect totals.

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:

Standard labor: $45–$200/hr
Priority call: $150+/hr
Truck roll: $100–$350
Holiday bump: +25–50%

Several factors affect pricing including the plumber's expertise, your location, time of day, and difficulty of the plumbing issue.

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. Fast list: clear minor blockages, replace shutoffs, and install a new kitchen faucet. Gas line additions or meter upgrades require utility coordination and inspection windows. Consider temporary fixtures to keep areas usable during work.

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:

Leak after freeze event
Moisture under flooring
Acoustic leak tools needed
Section-by-section replacement
High-temp/high-pressure lines

It's perfectly fine to recognize when you need additional assistance. If the project proves more complex than expected, professional help is advisable.

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