The Best Plumbing Contractors in San Carlos, CA

Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in San Carlos, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Flo by MarGo Plumbing & Drain

4.9
(250 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, family-owned and operated plumbing company known for its rapid response, especially for emergency services. They emphasize honest pricing, clear communication, and expert workmanship for both residential and commercial clients. Their team is known for being courteous and professional.

1101 Industrial Rd, Unit 200, San Carlos, CA 94070

Specialties & Features

Emergency plumbing repairs
Drain cleaning and sewer services
Water heater installation and repair

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Peninsula Water Works

4.8
(180 reviews)
Verified

A well-established local contractor with a strong focus on the San Carlos and broader Peninsula area. They are praised for their reliability, thorough diagnostics, and high-quality pipe installation and repiping projects. They offer both traditional and trenchless sewer repair methods.

1700 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94402 (Serves San Carlos)

Specialties & Features

Pipe installation and replacement
Leak detection and repair
Bathroom and kitchen plumbing

Business Information

Years in Business:20 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Nor Cal Pipeline, Inc.

4.7
(150 reviews)
Verified

Specializes in advanced drain and sewer line services, including video camera inspections and hydro-jetting. They have built a solid reputation for tackling complex plumbing issues that other companies may shy away from. They serve a wide range of clients, from homeowners to property managers.

1855 Leslie St, San Carlos, CA 94070

Specialties & Features

Drain cleaning and sewer services
Trenchless pipe repair
Commercial plumbing services

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in San Carlos

** The plumbing market in San Carlos is competitive and characterized by high customer expectations, reflecting the general standards of the San Francisco Peninsula. The average quality of service providers is high, with a strong emphasis on licensed, insured, and technologically adept contractors (e.g., using video inspection and trenchless technology). Due to the age of many homes in San Carlos, there is significant demand for pipe replacement, sewer line repairs, and water heater services. The competition level is moderate to high, which helps maintain service quality but also results in premium pricing. Typical pricing is above the national average, with high emergency call-out fees and labor rates, consistent with the region's high cost of living and business operation. Customers generally expect and receive prompt, professional, and durable workmanship.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with San Carlos regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in San Carlos

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in San Carlos, California.

1What is the typical cost range for common plumbing repairs like fixing a leaky faucet or a running toilet in San Carlos?

In San Carlos, the cost for common repairs typically ranges from $150 to $400, depending on the fixture's brand and the repair's complexity. For example, repairing a standard running toilet may be on the lower end, while fixing a leak in a high-end faucet with proprietary parts will cost more. Always request a detailed, written estimate before work begins, as Bay Area labor rates are higher than the national average.

2How does San Carlos's climate and soil affect my home's plumbing, particularly the sewer line?

San Carlos's clay-rich soil is a significant factor. This soil expands when wet (in winter) and contracts during dry periods, which can place stress on underground sewer pipes, leading to cracks, misalignment, and root intrusion. Proactive, annual sewer line inspections with a camera are highly recommended to identify and address these common local issues before they cause a major backup.

3Are there any local regulations in San Carlos I should know about before replacing a water heater or making other major plumbing upgrades?

Yes, California and San Carlos have strict regulations. For water heaters, state law requires seismic strapping and most new installations must be high-efficiency models (like heat pump water heaters) to meet Title 24 energy codes. For any significant plumbing work, a permit from the San Carlos Building Division is often required to ensure compliance with current codes, which a licensed plumber will handle.

4What should I look for when choosing a reliable plumber serving San Carlos?

Always verify the plumber holds a valid, current California C-36 Plumbing Contractor license. Choose a local company with a physical address and strong reputation in San Carlos and the Peninsula, as they understand local infrastructure challenges. Check for reviews specifically mentioning responsiveness, clear communication, and proper permitting for jobs that require it.

5My water pressure seems low. Is this a common issue in San Carlos, and what usually causes it?

Fluctuating water pressure can be common, often stemming from local municipal maintenance or the age of your home's plumbing. However, in many older San Carlos homes, the primary culprit is mineral buildup (scale) from our hard water clogging aerators and showerheads, or galvanized steel pipes that have corroded and narrowed internally over decades. A plumber can diagnose if it's a simple fixture clean-out or a more serious pipe replacement issue.