Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Monterey, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A family-owned and operated business with a long-standing reputation in Monterey County. They are known for their prompt, professional service and expertise in both routine maintenance and complex emergency repairs. They emphasize clear communication and upfront pricing.
A highly-rated, local plumbing contractor known for its reliability and high-quality workmanship. They offer 24/7 emergency services and are particularly praised for their leak detection and repiping services. Their team is known for being courteous and clean.
A premier plumbing service provider with an exceptional near-perfect rating, focusing on high-end residential and commercial projects. They are experts in fixture installation, remodels, and complex plumbing system design. Their reviews consistently highlight meticulous attention to detail.
** The plumbing market in Monterey is characterized by strong competition and a high standard of quality. Due to the city's coastal climate and the prevalence of older housing stock, common issues include pipe corrosion, sewer line root intrusion, and the need for modern fixture upgrades. The market is a mix of specialized, high-end contractors (like Steve Tadd Plumbing) who cater to custom homes and commercial projects, and broader-service companies (like A-1 Plumbing and Mike Counsil) that handle a high volume of emergency and routine residential calls. Pricing in Monterey is typically above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living and business operation in California. A standard service call fee often ranges from $100 to $200, with emergency after-hours rates being significantly higher. Hydro-jetting a main sewer line can cost $400-$800, while a full water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the system type. Consumers are advised to seek multiple quotes and always verify a contractor's state license number with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) before proceeding with work.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Monterey regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Monterey, California.
Monterey's salty, moist air can accelerate corrosion on exposed pipes and water heaters, especially in older homes near the coast. Additionally, many historic homes in Monterey and Pacific Grove have original galvanized steel pipes, which are prone to internal rust and reduced water flow over decades. We recommend more frequent inspections for corrosion and considering proactive pipe replacement with modern materials like copper or PEX to prevent sudden failures.
Costs in Monterey are typically higher than national averages due to California's high business operating costs and local permit fees. For example, a standard 50-gallon water heater replacement, including permit and disposal of the old unit, generally ranges from $1,800 to $3,000. A whole-house repiping project for a typical older home can range from $8,000 to $15,000+, depending on the home's size, accessibility, and materials chosen (copper vs. PEX).
Yes, California has strict water conservation and energy efficiency codes. Any new toilet installed must be high-efficiency (1.28 gallons per flush or less), and showerheads and faucets must be low-flow. Furthermore, since 2010, California law requires a pressure regulator on the main water line for all homes; a plumber will check this during major work. Always hire a licensed contractor who will pull the required City of Monterey or county permits for significant work.
First, verify they hold a valid, active California C-36 Plumbing Contractor license. Ask for proof of insurance and local references, especially for work in neighborhoods with similar home styles (e.g., adobe, historic). Choose a plumber familiar with local soil conditions (like clay) that affect sewer line performance and who offers clear, written estimates. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may skip necessary permits.
Yes, this is very common. Monterey's mature landscaping, like Monterey Pine and Cypress trees, has extensive root systems that seek out moisture and can invade older clay or cracked sewer lines, causing blockages. Winter rains saturate the soil, making roots more active and can also shift ground, stressing pipes. We recommend annual drain camera inspections if you have large trees near your sewer lateral and before the heavy rainy season begins.