How do I verify a plumber's license?

Look up your state's contractor licensing board website and search by name or license number. Most states have an online lookup tool. You can also ask the plumber to show their license card at the start of the job.

Should I get multiple quotes for plumbing work?

Yes, for any job over $200-300, getting 2-3 quotes is strongly recommended. Plumbing prices can vary 20-50% between contractors. Written quotes help you compare apples-to-apples on scope, materials, and labor.

What should a plumbing quote include?

A complete plumbing quote should include: scope of work description, parts and materials list, labor hours and rate, permit fees (if applicable), cleanup and disposal, warranty on parts and labor, and total price with payment terms.

Is it okay to hire an unlicensed plumber to save money?

This is risky and inadvisable. Unlicensed plumbers may not follow local codes, which can create safety hazards and cause issues when selling your home. Work done without permits may need to be redone at your expense.

When should I call a plumber vs. an emergency plumber?

Call an emergency plumber for active flooding, burst pipes, sewage backup in living spaces, or gas leaks. Standard plumbers for planned repairs, slow drains, or dripping faucets. Emergency rates are typically 50-100% higher.

How to Find a Good Plumber

A complete guide to finding, vetting, and hiring a licensed plumber — and getting a fair price.

Step 1: Find Candidates

Start your search with these reliable sources:

Your state's contractor licensing board (search by specialty: plumber)
Angi (formerly Angie's List) — verified reviews and license checks
HomeAdvisor / Thumbtack — compare quotes from multiple contractors
Google Maps — search "licensed plumber near me" and read recent reviews
Neighbor recommendations — word of mouth is still the best referral
Your local hardware store — often knows reputable local contractors

Step 2: Verify Credentials

Before calling anyone for a quote, verify:

State License

Verify the license number on your state's licensing board website. Check that it's current and in good standing.

Liability Insurance

Ask for the certificate of insurance. This protects your property if the plumber causes damage.

Worker's Compensation

If they have employees, they must carry workers' comp. Without it, you could be liable for injuries on your property.

BBB Rating

Check the Better Business Bureau for complaints. An A or A+ rating indicates reliability.

Step 3: Get Written Quotes

Always get 2–3 written quotes for jobs over $300. A good quote should include:

Detailed description of the work to be done
List of parts and materials with brand/model where applicable
Labor cost (hours × rate or flat fee)
Permit fees and inspection costs
Cleanup and haul-away of old materials
Warranty on parts and labor (typically 1 year on labor)
Payment schedule and total price
Start and estimated completion date

Red Flags to Watch For

Demands full payment in cash before starting work
Can't provide a license number or proof of insurance
Gives a quote without ever looking at the problem
Quote is dramatically lower than all others (often a bait-and-switch)
Pressures you to decide immediately
Has no physical address or business name
Negative pattern of complaints on BBB or Google

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Are you licensed and insured in this state?

How long have you been in business?

Do you offer a warranty on your work?

Will you pull any required permits?

Will you be doing the work yourself or subcontracting?

What is your policy if the job takes longer than expected?

Can you provide references from recent customers?

How do you handle unexpected issues found during the job?

Frequently Asked Questions

Know What to Pay Before You Call

Use our cost database to understand average prices in your area. Going in with knowledge of fair market rates is the best negotiating tool.

Get a Cost Estimate