Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Pacifica, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, family-owned and operated business known for prompt and professional service. They emphasize customer education and transparent pricing. They offer 24/7 emergency services and serve both residential and commercial clients in Pacifica and the surrounding coastside areas.
Flow Right Plumbing has built an exceptional reputation on the coast for meticulous work and outstanding customer service. They specialize in both routine maintenance and complex repiping projects, with a focus on leak detection and long-term solutions.
While based in the broader South San Francisco area, Allstar has a significant presence and consistently serves Pacifica. As the name implies, they are experts in water heater services of all kinds but also offer a full suite of plumbing repairs and installations. They are known for their quick response times.
** The plumbing market in Pacifica, California, is characterized by a mix of a few highly-rated local specialists and several reputable regional companies from nearby cities like South San Francisco and Daly City that actively serve the community. Due to Pacifica's coastal location and older housing stock, there is consistent demand for services related to drain and sewer lines, water heater replacements, and leak detection. The competition level is moderate; while there aren't dozens of local options, the existing providers are generally high-quality, established businesses. Customers can expect a high standard of service, with many companies emphasizing 24/7 emergency availability. Pricing in Pacifica is typical for the San Francisco Bay Area, which is considered premium compared to national averages. A standard service call typically ranges from $150-$250, with emergency rates being higher. Major projects like repiping or full water heater replacements can range from $2,000 to $10,000+, depending on the scope and materials.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Pacifica regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Pacifica, California.
Pacifica's salty, moist air can accelerate corrosion on exposed pipes and water heaters, while the area's clay-rich soil can shift, leading to stress on underground sewer lines and potential root intrusion. Homeowners should regularly inspect for green corrosion (verdigris) on copper pipes and be vigilant for slow drains or gurgling sounds, which can indicate root issues or pipe misalignment. Scheduling a video sewer line inspection every few years is a proactive measure highly recommended for local homes.
Costs in Pacifica are generally aligned with the broader San Francisco Bay Area, which is higher than national averages. A standard 50-gallon tank water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,200, including permits and disposal, while tankless units are more. Repairing a slab leak, which requires specialized leak detection and concrete work, can range from $2,000 to $6,000+, heavily dependent on the leak's location and accessibility. Always get a detailed, written estimate that includes California-required licensing and permit fees.
Yes, Pacifica follows the strict California Plumbing Code and often has additional local ordinances from the City of Pacifica. Key regulations include mandatory permits for most work beyond simple repairs, requirements for low-flow fixtures (1.28 GPF toilets, 1.8 GPM showerheads), and specific rules for water heater seismic strapping due to earthquake risk. Always verify your plumber is licensed (# required), insured, and will pull the necessary permits with the city's Building Division.
The rainy winter season (November-April) is prime time for sewer line backups due to saturated ground and root growth, while summer often sees increased water usage straining older pipes. The best time for proactive maintenance, like sewer line cleaning, water heater flushing, and outdoor faucet inspection, is late spring (May) or early fall (September), avoiding the busy seasonal rushes. This timing helps prevent winter emergencies and ensures systems are ready for drier summer months.
Always verify a current California C-36 Plumbing Contractor license online via the CSLB website and check for positive reviews specific to coastal service. A reliable local plumber will understand Pacifica's soil and climate challenges, provide clear written estimates, and discuss permit requirements. Major red flags include requests for large cash-only payments, refusal to pull permits, lack of proper insurance, or pressure to perform unnecessary major repairs without a second opinion or diagnostic evidence (like a sewer camera video).