Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in San Francisco, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, family-owned and operated plumbing service known for its rapid response times, especially for emergencies. They emphasize clear communication, upfront pricing, and high-quality workmanship on both residential and commercial projects.
Service Plus has built a strong reputation for technical expertise in complex pipe and sewer line issues common in San Francisco's older housing stock. They are praised for their professionalism and use of advanced leak detection technology.
A well-established contractor offering a comprehensive range of plumbing services from minor repairs to major commercial installations. They are noted for their reliable scheduling, experienced technicians, and strong focus on customer service.
** The plumbing market in San Francisco is highly competitive and service-oriented, characterized by a premium on quality and reliability. The city's unique infrastructure, featuring a high proportion of historic and older buildings, creates consistent demand for specialized services like sewer line replacement, repiping, and sophisticated leak detection. The average quality of service providers is high, driven by stringent state licensing requirements and an informed customer base that relies heavily on online reviews. Competition is fierce, which generally benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer satisfaction. However, pricing in San Francisco is among the highest in the nation. Typical costs reflect the high cost of living, business operations, and insurance in the Bay Area. For context, a standard service call typically ranges from $150-$300, emergency rates can be 1.5x to 2x higher, and complex jobs like a full water heater replacement or sewer line repair can easily cost several thousand dollars. Consumers are advised to seek multiple quotes and verify state contractor's license numbers for any provider they consider.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with San Francisco regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in San Francisco, California.
Several San Francisco-specific factors drive costs up. The city's high business operating costs, including insurance and wages, are reflected in service rates. Furthermore, many homes have difficult access due to narrow streets, steep hills, and tight crawl spaces, which increases labor time. Permits for work in this densely populated city with strict building codes can also add to the overall project expense.
The most prevalent issue is sewer line backups and failures. Many San Francisco homes, particularly Victorians and buildings from before the 1960s, have original sewer lines made of aging clay or cast iron. These pipes are highly susceptible to intrusion from the roots of the city's iconic trees (like ficus and poplar) and can also be misaligned or cracked due to seismic activity and shifting soil, leading to frequent blockages.
Yes, San Francisco follows strict California water conservation laws. You must install high-efficiency fixtures that meet current standards, such as toilets using 1.28 gallons per flush or less and showerheads with a maximum flow of 1.8 gallons per minute. Using a licensed plumber ensures compliance, which is crucial as the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) may have additional local efficiency requirements and offers rebates for qualifying upgrades.
While freezing pipes are less common than in colder climates, exposed pipes in unheated basements or crawl spaces can still freeze during our occasional cold snaps, especially in neighborhoods like Twin Peaks or the Sunset District. More commonly, the consistent dampness and salt air can accelerate corrosion on older galvanized steel pipes and external water heater components, leading to premature leaks and failures.
Always verify the plumber holds a current, valid **California C-36 Plumbing Contractor license** and carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation. Given the complexity of local codes, choose a company with extensive experience specifically in San Francisco's unique housing stock. Check for strong reviews addressing punctuality, clear communication, and proper permitting for major work, which is essential for passing city inspections and protecting your home's value.