Plumbing
Plumbing installs, repairs, and maintains water supply, drain, waste, vent, and gas lines, along with fixtures and water heaters. It is a licensed, code-driven trade priced per project because jobs range from a leak repair to a full repipe.
How plumbing is done
- Diagnose the issue or plan the new work
- Shut off and drain the affected lines
- Rough-in or repair supply, drain, and vent piping
- Pressure-test and pass rough inspection
- Install fixtures, water heater, or appliances
- Test for leaks and final inspection
What homeowners should know
- Verify the plumber is licensed and insured
- Know where your main water shutoff is
- Ask for an upfront diagnosis before major work
- Get repipe or water-heater quotes in writing
- Ask about pipe material and warranty
Permits, timelines & things to consider
- Most new plumbing and gas work requires permits and inspections
- Licensing is mandatory for plumbers in most jurisdictions
- Pipe material and access behind walls drive the per-project cost
- Old galvanized or polybutylene pipe may warrant a repipe
- Gas work carries added safety and code requirements
Frequently asked questions
Do plumbers need a license?
Yes, plumbing is a licensed trade in most jurisdictions, and permits with inspections are typically required for new or altered piping and gas work.
When should I repipe my house?
Aging galvanized steel or polybutylene pipe that leaks or restricts flow is often worth repiping; a plumber can assess whether repair or repipe makes sense.
How is plumbing work priced?
It is priced per project based on the scope, pipe material, and how accessible the lines are behind walls and floors.