Plumbing costs can vary depending on the job and the worker

You might not think about your home’s plumbing every day. After all, most of your pipes are hidden behind walls and ceilings. But that can change quickly when you notice an unexpected drip from above or water stars pooling around your water heater.

When that happens, you’ll want a plumber in your home as fast as possible. But how much should you expect to pay?

Average cost for common plumbing jobs

Probably the most significant variable in the cost of your plumbing is the work being done. Plumbing encompasses a lot of different jobs. Here are some national averages for common plumbing repairs, installations and maintenance:

This is not a comprehensive list, and since these are national averages, the price might be higher or lower in your region of the country.

As with any housework, some factors add costs to a plumbing job. Older homes may require the replacement of outdated piping or valves. Accessing a leak in the wall or ceiling may reveal water damage, mold or other issues. It’s essential to have a trustworthy and transparent plumber who takes the time to explain everything that needs to be done and how much it will cost.

Tips for controlling your plumbing expenses

Every homeowner has had a sinking feeling when a simple repair starts to balloon into a significant expense. A lot of the anxiety comes from uncertainty. Here are a few simple ways to assert some control over your plumbing expenses:

• Familiarize yourself with your home’s plumbing. This can be as simple as knowing where your main shutoff valve is or having a general idea of how old the pipes in each room are. This familiarity will help you speak to your plumber about what needs to be fixed.
• Make sure you’re using a licensed plumber. Nothing is as expensive as cheap labor. Going with an unlicensed contractor often means lots of fixes in the future. Burt’s Reliable only works with licensed and insured plumbers who get the job done right the first time.
• Get a written estimate. Because jobs can balloon, it’s crucial to have a detailed written estimate to refer to.
• Get multiple jobs done on the same day. While your plumber is dealing with a leaky pipe, have them look at the toilet that’s giving you trouble or the clogged drain in the utility sink. Consolidating jobs can help you save money spent on multiple house calls.

Burt’s Reliable — the North Fork’s trusted plumbing partner

In addition to offering dependable heating oil delivery and equipment services, Burt’s Reliable is a certified plumbing contractor. We handle all sizes of jobs, from clearing plugged drains to installing new water lines. Homeowners in Suffolk County know they can count on us. It’s no wonder that many customers actually leave their house keys with us!

To request plumbing service, drop us a line. We always have staff ready!