Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Ketchikan, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, full-service plumbing and heating company known for its rapid response and expertise in both residential and commercial systems. They are a go-to for emergency repairs and complex installations, highly regarded for their professional and knowledgeable technicians.
While operating as a general contractor, A&P Construction has a dedicated and highly skilled plumbing division. They are particularly strong in project-based work such as bathroom and kitchen remodels, new construction plumbing, and sewer line replacements.
Based in Juneau, Capital Plumbing is a major regional contractor that frequently serves larger commercial and municipal projects throughout Southeast Alaska, including Ketchikan. They are the preferred choice for complex commercial systems, large-scale water heater installations, and advanced leak detection.
The plumbing market in Ketchikan is characterized by a small number of highly specialized, long-standing local providers, supplemented by regional contractors from other Southeast Alaska communities like Juneau. Due to Ketchikan's island location and challenging climate, the demand for skilled plumbers is consistent, dealing with issues like frozen pipes, older housing stock infrastructure, and the logistical challenges of obtaining parts. **Competition Level:** Moderate to low in terms of the number of competitors, but high in terms of established reputation. The barrier to entry is significant due to the remote location. **Average Quality:** The quality of service is generally high. The local businesses that survive and thrive do so through strong community ties, reliability, and a broad skill set to handle the diverse needs of the area. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typically higher than the national average. This reflects the increased cost of living, the expense of shipping equipment and parts to the island, and the specialized knowledge required for the local environment. Emergency service calls, especially after hours, command a significant premium.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ketchikan regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Ketchikan, Alaska.
The constant moisture and high rainfall in Ketchikan accelerate pipe corrosion and put immense strain on drainage systems. It's crucial to ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear to prevent foundation water intrusion and to have your sewer line inspected regularly for root intrusion, as the damp soil encourages aggressive root growth towards pipe joints.
Costs are higher due to the "Alaska premium" on shipping parts and materials, limited local supplier competition, and the specialized knowledge required for our unique conditions. Additionally, many homes are on pilings or have complex layouts due to the terrain, making access and labor more time-intensive. Always get a detailed, written estimate upfront.
The absolute priority is preventing frozen pipes before winter. Despite our milder coastal winters, cold snaps happen. Before temperatures drop, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces (common in homes on pilings), and know the location of your main water shut-off valve. A small, constant drip from faucets during extreme cold can also prevent bursting.
Verify they are licensed by the State of Alaska (a legal requirement) and insured. Choose a provider with extensive local experience, as they will understand common issues like corrosion from our water, solutions for homes on steep slopes, and how to navigate the local permitting process for major work. A reliable local plumber will also have a proven track record of availability for emergencies.
Given Ketchikan's older infrastructure and dense tree cover, slow drains often point to root intrusion into sewer lines or a failing septic system (for homes not on the city sewer). Using chemical drain cleaners can damage older pipes and is a temporary fix. A professional can perform a camera inspection to accurately diagnose the problem, which is especially important before the ground freezes or during our rainy season when saturated soil exacerbates issues.