Plumbers may specialize in installation, repair, and maintenance, as well as renovation or emergency services. Determine the needs of the job, then look for plumbers who offer those services.Here are some tips on finding a reputable local plumber: However, taking the time to do the necessary research can help you find a qualified plumber whose services meet your needs. In an emergency, it can be tempting to enter “plumber near me” in a search engine and call the first name on the list. In general, if the project is outside your skill level or if you are unable to devote the necessary time to it, it’s best to call in a pro. To avoid any issues with permits and inspections (or any errors with parts and installation), it’s often wise and worth the investment to contract a professional local plumber. Even if a homeowner has a basic working knowledge of plumbing, many municipalities prefer to see a licensed plumber who knows the local building codes on the permit application for jobs like bathroom or kitchen renovations. However, more complicated issues or plumbing emergencies can only be made worse if they aren’t addressed by a professional.Īdditionally, home renovation projects are best left to a professional. While some jobs are indeed easy to address by the average homeowner, it’s important to consider the potential for water damage if you run into issues or make a mistake during your DIY repair.įor basic issues, such as a slow drain or a running toilet, homeowners can typically tackle these with off-the-shelf repair kits. To save money, handy homeowners may consider taking the DIY approach to plumbing repairs. In addition to monitoring for leaks or slow drainage, scheduling inspections throughout the year can help solve problems before they arise. Otherwise, the job can be scheduled in advance.įinally, the best way to prevent a plumbing emergency is to conduct regular maintenance. Emergency jobs often come at an additional cost, but if safety and home integrity are at risk, it’s worthwhile to call a plumber. Brown spots on the ceiling, peeling paint or mold, or an unexplained spike in the water bill can all signify a leak.īefore calling a plumber, consider the urgency of the task at hand. Conversely, rattling pipes or “water hammer” are often caused by excessively high water pressure. If the water pressure in the shower suddenly drops, it could signify a clog in the pipes. Frequent clogs and constantly-running water often indicate underlying issues with the plumbing or the toilet itself. For these non-emergency situations, it’s best to schedule an appointment in advance with a local plumber: If water isn’t running, this could indicate a leak or a frozen pipe.Įven if a plumbing issue is not an emergency, it should still be addressed to prevent further damage or issues from occurring. A lack of running water poses significant logistical challenges and safety concerns for homeowners. Signs of a sewage backup include foul odors emanating from the drain and slowed drainage throughout the home. This not only creates a health hazard, but prevents homeowners from running water until it is repaired. A backed sewer line means sewage is sitting at its backup point. Flood damage can significantly damage the home and is a safety hazard. A failed sump pump or burst pipe can all lead to flooding. EmergenciesĬertain plumbing issues should be addressed by a professional immediately to limit further damage to the home: In addition to the task at hand, there are other factors to consider to determine whether a plumber is needed. ![]() ![]() Certain emergency and non-emergency situations will necessitate a professional, while others may not require a plumber’s specific expertise. Photo: Do I Need a Plumber?īefore hiring a plumber, it’s important to determine whether you actually need one for the task at hand. Regardless of the plumbing issue you face, it’s advised to always get a quote in writing before agreeing to hire a professional. Plumbers will charge anywhere from time-and-a-half to triple their hourly rate for jobs done outside their working hours, depending on their individual policies and practices. If a plumber is needed in the event of an emergency, on a holiday or weekend, or after-hours, you can generally expect to pay more than you would pay for work done during the individual’s working hours. Simple jobs that can be finished by apprentices will generally cost less than more complex jobs that require the expertise of a master plumber. Overall rates will vary by the type and complexity of the job, the geographic location, and the skill level of a professional. Plumbers may also charge extra for travel time, supplies, and after-hours or emergency jobs. On average, a single project’s total cost can range between $173 and $459, with an average repair cost of $316. A plumber’s rates typically range from $45 to $200 per hour, though they may instead charge flat rates for basic service calls.
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