Question 1

Should plumbers be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Definitely required. State plumbing licenses are mandatory in most areas for consumer protection. Choosing an unlicensed plumber risks subpar workmanship, expensive future repairs, and possible building code violations.

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

Protect your investment by asking plumbing contractors these vital questions:

Are you properly licensed and insured?Do you provide free estimates?Is pricing flat-rate or hourly?Will licensed plumbers perform the work?What's your damage policy?What's your emergency response time?Does cleanup cost extra?Do you offer service guarantees?

These questions help establish transparency and set proper expectations for your plumbing project.

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. Beyond general tidying, specifically cleaning the affected plumbing fixture or area is recommended.For safety reasons, ensure kids and animals are kept away from the plumbing work area throughout the visit.

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:Simple toilet repairs: $150 - $400Burst pipe emergencies: $1,000 - $4,000+Drain cleaning: $100 - $275Water heater repair: $200 - $600Faucet replacement: $150 - $350Job complexity, property size, and existing pipe types affect the total cost. External conditions including supply chain difficulties and material shortages influence the final bill.

Question 5

How much do plumbers typically charge?

Accepted Answer

The typical hourly charge for plumbers is $100, with possible rates from $45 to $200 depending on their experience and your particular plumbing needs.Common Rate Structure:Regular rate: $45-$200/hrEmergency rate: $150+/hrService call: $100-$350Holiday rate: Additional 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

The majority of basic residential plumbing repairs typically take just a few hours to complete. Including tasks like sink replacement, pipe or toilet unclogging, and dishwasher installation. Extended projects may take significantly longer. For example, jobs requiring demolition to reach plumbing, excavation for gas lines, or special-order parts and materials. Always discuss timeline expectations with your plumber during the estimate phase.

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:Unexpected pipe damage severityLeaks in hard-to-reach spacesTasks needing specialized toolsWork involving pipe section replacementJobs with hot water, steam, or gas requirementsIt'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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