Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Big Pine Key, Florida. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, full-service plumbing company with a strong local presence in the Lower Keys. They are known for their rapid response times, especially for emergencies, and their expertise in dealing with the unique challenges of island plumbing, such as saltwater corrosion and high water tables.
Serving the entire Florida Keys from their base in Marathon, this provider is highly regarded for professional and clean service. They have a fleet of trucks and are a common choice for both residential and commercial clients in Big Pine Key for installations and major repairs.
A true local business that combines plumbing services with locksmithing, offering a convenient solution for homeowners and businesses. They are praised for their personalized service, fair pricing, and deep roots in the Big Pine Key community. They handle a wide range of common plumbing issues.
** The plumbing market in Big Pine Key is characterized by a limited number of dedicated, locally-based plumbing contractors, leading residents and businesses to frequently rely on established providers from nearby keys like Marathon. This creates a semi-competitive environment where service quality and reliability are the primary differentiators rather than price. Due to the island's location, service calls often include travel time, which can influence response times and cost. The plumbing needs are heavily influenced by the local environment, including corrosion from salt air, shallow bedrock complicating pipe laying, and the critical importance of functioning sewer and water systems in a sensitive ecosystem. Pricing is typically above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living, specialized knowledge required for island infrastructure, and the operational costs of serving a dispersed island community. Emergency and after-hours services are available but often command a significant premium.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Big Pine Key regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Big Pine Key, Florida.
The corrosive salt air and shallow, brackish groundwater in the Keys accelerate corrosion on exposed metal pipes, fittings, and water heaters. We strongly recommend scheduling annual inspections for corrosion, ensuring all exterior pipes are properly insulated, and considering corrosion-resistant materials like PVC, CPVC, or PEX for repairs and new installations. Installing dielectric unions on your water heater can also prevent galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals.
Yes, plumbing services in Big Pine Key typically have higher costs due to the "island factor," which includes travel time and ferry logistics for contractors based on other keys, higher business operating costs, and the specialized knowledge required for local conditions. The specific cost will depend on the urgency of the job, the need for specialized equipment (like jackhammers for our solid coral rock), and the price of materials, which may incur additional freight charges to the island.
Always verify they hold a valid Florida state plumbing license and are insured. Crucially, choose a plumber with extensive, proven experience in the Florida Keys, as they will understand our specific building codes, the challenges of working with cisterns and shallow foundations, and the best practices for preventing saltwater corrosion. Ask for local references and if they have experience with the Monroe County permitting process for any major work.
This is very common. Big Pine Key's high water table means that during the rainy season or extreme high tides, groundwater can infiltrate older sewer lines through cracks or poor seals, causing back-ups and slow drainage. Tree roots from native Gumbo Limbo or Spanish Stopper trees are also attracted to the moisture in pipes and are a frequent cause of blockages. A local plumber can perform a camera inspection to diagnose infiltration versus root intrusion.
Before hurricane season, have a plumber inspect and secure your water heater and well pump (if applicable). As a storm approaches, fill your bathtubs and spare containers with water from your cistern or well for sanitary use, as municipal water pressure may be lost. If you have time and are evacuating, shut off your main water valve at the meter to protect your home from potential catastrophic leaks if pipes are damaged during the storm.