Illustration of a house with plumbing pipes and a water drop under a protection shield
Original illustration — ServiCover
📌 Key Takeaway: Most plumbers charge $75-$150 per hour, with master plumbers at $100-$200 and emergency calls at $150-$300 per hour. Many also add a $50-$150 trip fee. Common jobs like drain cleaning run $100-$350, while a new tank water heater typically costs $800-$2,500 installed.

National Plumbing Brands vs. Local Plumbers

Plumbing is served by a mix of national franchise brands and independent local shops. Franchises offer standardized pricing and 24/7 availability; independents often offer lower rates and more flexibility. Licensing and insurance matter more than the logo.

Roto-Rooter
Availability: 24/7 in most markets  |  Known for: Drain and sewer cleaning
One of the largest US plumbing and drain service providers, with company-owned and franchise locations. A familiar option for urgent clogs and sewer backups, though pricing is often above local independents.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing
Model: Franchise network  |  Known for: Upfront, flat-rate pricing
Quotes a price before work begins rather than billing purely by the hour — helpful for budgeting, as long as you compare the flat rate against other quotes.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Model: Franchise network  |  Known for: Punctuality guarantee
Markets an on-time guarantee and upfront pricing. Service quality varies by local franchise owner, so check reviews for your specific location.
Independent Licensed Plumbers
Best for: Remodels, repiping, ongoing relationships  |  Watch for: After-hours availability
Local shops often charge less for scheduled work and give more personal service. Confirm state licensing, insurance and whether they offer a warranty on labor.

2026 Plumbing Price Snapshot

ServiceTypical Cost
Hourly rate (licensed plumber)$75-$150/hr
Master plumber$100-$200/hr
Emergency / after-hours$150-$300/hr
Trip / service call fee$50-$150
Drain cleaning (snake)$100-$350
Hydro jetting$250-$800
Toilet repair$100-$400
Faucet repair$75-$250
Tank water heater install$800-$2,500
Tankless water heater install$1,500-$4,500
Burst pipe repair$500-$2,000
Whole-house repipe$2,000-$15,000
Sewer line replacement$3,000-$25,000

Flat-Rate vs. Hourly Billing

Hourly billing is transparent for quick jobs but can run up on complex problems. Flat-rate pricing gives certainty but builds in a margin for the unexpected. For a simple fix, ask for both — and always ask whether the trip fee is credited toward the repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licensed plumber?

Most states require licensing for plumbing work beyond minor repairs, and permitted jobs like water heater replacement usually require a licensed plumber. Licensing also affects insurance coverage if something goes wrong.

Does a home warranty cover plumbing?

Many home warranty plans cover interior plumbing lines, stoppages and water heaters, subject to limits and service fees. See our home warranty comparison.

How can I avoid emergency rates?

Know where your main shut-off valve is, fix slow leaks early, and schedule non-urgent work during regular business hours.

🔎 How we research: The ServiCover Editorial Team compiles prices and guidance from published 2026 cost guides, manufacturer information and industry sources. Prices are national ranges and vary by location, home and provider, so always compare written quotes. We don't perform the work ourselves, and we may earn a commission when you request quotes through our partners — see our Advertiser Disclosure.