How to Find a Reliable Plumber
What to look for, what questions to ask, and how to avoid costly mistakes when hiring a plumber.
In this article
Plumbing problems never wait for a convenient time. Whether it's a burst pipe at midnight or a slow drain ruining your morning routine, finding a reliable plumber quickly — and without overpaying — is a skill worth having.
Check for licensing and insurance
In most US states and Canadian provinces, plumbers must hold a valid licence. Ask to see it before any work begins. A licensed plumber has passed exams that verify their knowledge of local codes and safety standards.
Insurance matters too. Liability insurance protects your home if something goes wrong during the job. Workers' compensation covers the plumber and their team if anyone is injured on your property.
Read verified reviews
Generic star ratings can be misleading. Look for platforms where reviews are tied to completed jobs — not just star-clicks. On FivsPro, every review is linked to a verified booking, so you know the reviewer actually hired the professional.
Pay attention to reviews that mention timeliness, cleanliness, and whether the final price matched the quote.
Get at least two quotes
For any job over $200, get quotes from two or three plumbers. A quote should be itemised — labour, parts, and any call-out fee listed separately. Be wary of quotes that arrive as a single round number with no breakdown.
Ask the right questions before hiring
- How long have you been licensed in this state/province?
- Do you carry liability and workers' comp insurance?
- Will you pull the required permits for this job?
- Is there a warranty on parts and labour?
- What's your call-out fee and how is it applied to the final bill?
Red flags to watch for
Avoid plumbers who demand full payment upfront, refuse to provide a written quote, or can't produce proof of insurance on request. Legitimate professionals have nothing to hide.
Use FivsPro to hire with confidence
Every plumber listed on FivsPro is verified, insured, and reviewed by real customers. Search by your city, compare profiles side-by-side, and book in minutes — no phone tag required.
FivsPro Editorial
Editorial Team
The FivsPro editorial team creates practical guides to help homeowners make better hiring decisions and help service professionals grow their businesses across the USA and Canada.
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