Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Skagway, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally-owned and operated full-service plumbing company based directly in Skagway. They are known for their rapid response times for both residential and commercial clients, which is critical in a remote location. Their strengths include handling everything from routine maintenance and new installations to emergency repairs, making them the first call for most local residents.
A well-established and highly-reviewed plumbing contractor based in Juneau. As the largest city in the region, Juneau is a hub for services that extend to surrounding communities like Skagway, accessible by ferry or flight. They offer a comprehensive range of services and have the capacity for larger commercial projects, often scheduling service runs to Skagway.
Part of a nationally recognized franchise, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Juneau brings brand-standard training, pricing, and a broad range of specialized equipment to Southeast Alaska. They actively service the broader Southeast area, including Skagway, particularly for complex jobs like advanced drain cleaning, video inspections, and major pipe replacements that require specific expertise.
** The plumbing market in Skagway is characterized by its remote, small-town nature. There is typically one primary local contractor (Skagway Plumbing) that handles the majority of day-to-day and emergency needs. For more specialized, large-scale, or complex projects, residents and businesses frequently rely on established contractors from Juneau, which is the regional service hub. The level of competition is low within Skagway itself but moderate when considering the regional providers from Juneau. Due to the high cost of transportation for parts, equipment, and travel for technicians, plumbing services in Skagway are significantly more expensive than the national average. Service calls often include travel surcharges, and scheduling can be dependent on ferry or weather conditions for providers based outside of Skagway. However, the quality of service from these regional providers is generally high, as they are accustomed to the unique challenges of working in Southeast Alaska's environment.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Skagway regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Skagway, Alaska.
Skagway's sub-freezing temperatures for much of the year make frozen and burst pipes the top plumbing risk. The most critical steps are to completely drain and shut off outdoor faucets (hose bibbs) before the first hard freeze, and to ensure any pipes in unheated crawl spaces or along exterior walls are properly insulated with heat tape or cable. It's also highly recommended to know the location of your main water shut-off valve so you can act quickly if a pipe does burst.
Yes, plumbing services in Skagway typically have higher rates due to the high cost of living, the limited number of local providers, and the expense of importing specialized parts and equipment via barge or plane. The urgency of the call (emergency vs. scheduled) and the time of year (peak tourist season or deep winter) can also impact cost, as demand and accessibility fluctuate.
Prioritize plumbers who are licensed, insured, and have verifiable, long-term local experience. A plumber familiar with Skagway will have specific knowledge of common issues in older homes, how to properly winterize systems for our climate, and the logistical challenges of obtaining parts. Check for membership in local business associations and ask for references from neighbors.
The ideal times are during the shoulder seasons—late spring (May) or early fall (September/October). During these periods, weather is more moderate for any necessary exterior work, and plumbers are generally less booked than in the peak summer tourist season or the depths of winter when emergency freeze-ups are common. Scheduling ahead for these windows is advised.
Yes, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and local borough have regulations governing septic system installation and maintenance. Due to the rocky soil and high water table in many areas, proper system design is critical. For maintenance, have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years, and schedule it for late summer or early fall before the ground freezes. Insulate your well house and pressure tank to prevent freezing.