Plumbing Contractors in Michigan

How to Hire a Plumbing Contractor in Michigan

Plumbers install and repair the pipes, drains, fixtures, water heaters and gas lines in your home, and handle emergencies like leaks and clogged sewer lines. Plumbing work protects your water supply and your home from water damage, which is why most jurisdictions license plumbers and require permits for new piping. Call one for leaks, low water pressure, slow drains, water heater problems or remodels.

What to check before you hire

• Verify the plumber is licensed where you live; most states or localities require a plumbing license.
• Confirm permits for water heater replacements, re-pipes, new fixtures in new locations and gas line work where required.
• Ask whether they offer camera inspections for recurring drain or sewer problems before recommending major work.
• Check liability insurance and ask what their labor warranty covers.
• For emergencies, ask about after-hours rates before they arrive.

Questions to ask every contractor

• Will you repair the problem, or does the whole section need replacing?
• What type of pipe do you recommend, and why?
• Is the water heater being sized for our household's use?
• Will walls or floors need to be opened, and who repairs them afterward?

Frequently asked questions

Should I repair or replace my water heater?

Age, repair cost and efficiency all matter. If the tank is leaking, replacement is usually needed. Your plumber can tell you whether a tank, tankless or heat pump water heater fits your home.

What should I do during a plumbing leak?

Shut off the water at the fixture valve or the main shutoff, turn off power to any affected electrical areas if safe, and call a plumber. Know where your main shutoff is before an emergency.

Do I need a permit for plumbing work?

Minor repairs often do not, but new piping, water heater replacements and fixture relocations commonly require permits. Requirements vary by city and county.