Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Wilmington, Delaware. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, full-service plumbing company offering 24/7 emergency services for both residential and commercial clients. Known for prompt response times and expertise in everything from minor leaks to major sewer line replacements. They are a franchise of a national brand with strong local technicians.
A long-standing local provider offering comprehensive plumbing, heating, and cooling services. They have deep roots in the community and extensive experience with the plumbing systems in Wilmington's mix of historic and modern homes. They handle complex installations and repairs with a focus on quality craftsmanship.
Serving the broader Delaware area including Wilmington, this company is renowned for its rapid emergency response and high-quality work. They specialize in a wide array of plumbing services with a strong emphasis on customer service and using top-tier equipment for diagnostics and repairs.
The plumbing market in Wilmington, DE, is characterized by a mix of historic row homes and modern commercial buildings, leading to a high demand for both routine maintenance and emergency repairs. Common issues include pipe corrosion in older properties, basement drain backups due to aging sewer infrastructure, and the need for water heater replacements. Local providers must be well-versed in a range of systems from old cast iron pipes to modern PEX installations. The presence of major corporations and dense residential areas supports a competitive market with several established, high-quality plumbing contractors offering 24/7 emergency services.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Wilmington regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Wilmington, Delaware.
Wilmington's cold winters can lead to frozen and burst pipes, especially in older homes in neighborhoods like Trolley Square or the Riverfront with less insulation. Furthermore, the city's many historic homes have aging clay sewer lines and galvanized steel water pipes that are prone to corrosion, root intrusion, and failure, making sewer line inspections and replacements a frequent need. Seasonal temperature swings also stress pipe joints and water heaters.
Costs vary, but typical ranges in Wilmington are $150-$450 for a drain clearing, $300-$800 for a toilet repair/replacement, and $1,200-$4,000+ for a water heater installation. A key local factor is the age and accessibility of plumbing in historic districts, which often requires more labor and specialized parts, increasing the price. Always get a detailed, written estimate from a licensed plumber before work begins.
First, verify they hold a valid Delaware Division of Professional Regulation license and carry both liability insurance and worker's compensation. For Wilmington specifically, choose a company experienced with the common materials in older homes, like cast iron and clay pipes. Check for local references and reviews, and ensure they pull proper permits from the City of Wilmington for major work, which is a sign of a reputable provider.
Yes, scheduling is key. Have your sewer line inspected and drains professionally cleaned in the late fall to prevent winter backups when the ground is hard. Early autumn is the best time to service your water heater and insulate pipes before freezing temperatures hit. Spring is ideal for checking sump pumps and outdoor faucets after the thaw to handle Delaware's seasonal rains and prevent basement flooding.
In Wilmington, the homeowner is typically responsible for the sewer lateral (the pipe from your house to the city main) and any blockages in it. The city maintains the main sewer line in the street. If multiple neighbors are experiencing issues simultaneously, it may be a city problem. However, for a single-home backup, you should call a plumber to inspect and clear your lateral, as root intrusion and line breaks in older laterals are very common here.