Cost of Hiring a Plumber
By ProMatcher Staff
How Much Does a Plumber Cost?
8 Things You Should Know Before Hiring
1. Your location. Prices for labor and materials can vary greatly from city to city. If you live in a major metropolitan area, where the cost of living is high, you should expect to pay a little more for your project. On the other hand, prices tend to be a little lower in small towns and more rural areas.
2. Trip charge. Most plumbers will charge a base fee (or trip charge) for every service call. This fee typically covers fuel and the travel time required to get to your home. If you live outside of the contractor’s normal service area, this fee may increase. Additionally, trip charges for after-hours calls and weekends tend to be higher.
3. Time and materials. Many plumbers determine their fees based on the time and materials (T&M) required to complete the project. Certain projects, like re-piping an entire home, will take much more time than others. Also, your choice of materials and supplies can have a big impact on the total project cost. For instance, copper pipes will be significantly more expensive than PVC pipes. In some cases, you may be able to save a few dollars by purchasing fixtures, like sinks and toilets, on your own.
Get Matched to Local Plumbing Contractors
4. Project type. Why do you need the services of a plumber? Is your sink clogged? Are you replacing a toilet? Or, do you want to install a sump pump? The type of project, along with the degree of difficulty, will affect the cost. A complex water main repair will cost much more than a simple faucet replacement.
5. Permitting. Some plumbing projects will require a permit. Any permit inspection fees should be included in your plumber’s estimate. Unfortunately, the permitting process can be somewhat unpredictable. It may impact the timeline and budget of your project.
6. Additional home repairs. A leaky pipe may damage ceilings, flooring, drywall, and other parts of your home. The cost of cleaning up and repairing any water damage will be an additional expense.
7. Compare multiple quotes. Developing a relationship with a local plumber is typically your best bet. You will benefit from being a loyal customer. If you’re new to the area, you should try to get quotes for your project from multiple plumbing contractors. This helps to ensure you’re getting a fair price for the work. Unfortunately, in the event of an emergency, that’s not always possible.
8. Do your research. Price should not be the only thing you consider when making a hiring decision. Asking friends and family for recommendations is always a good idea (online review sites are also a good resource). You should always make sure the plumber is properly licensed, bonded, and insured. Doing a little research can save you a world of trouble.
More from ProMatcher:
[+] Plumbing Service Cost Report
[+] Sump Pump Installation Cost
[+] Faucet Installation Cost Checklist
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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