Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Ames, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, full-service company known for its rapid response times and professional technicians. They offer a wide array of plumbing services for both residential and commercial clients, with a strong emphasis on customer service and 24/7 emergency availability.
A highly reputable local company that has built a strong name on reliability and honest, upfront pricing. They are known for their "Golden Rule" philosophy of treating customers fairly and provide comprehensive plumbing solutions, including complex pipe replacement and leak detection.
A trusted, long-standing local contractor with deep roots in the community. They specialize in both plumbing and HVAC services, making them a convenient choice for multi-system homes and businesses. They are praised for their expertise with older homes and commercial systems.
** The plumbing market in Ames, Iowa, is characterized by a mix of long-standing local companies and regional service providers, creating a healthy and competitive environment. The presence of Iowa State University and a significant number of older homes drives consistent demand for both routine maintenance and emergency repairs. The overall quality of service is high, with several providers boasting decades of experience and strong community reputations. Competition is moderate, which helps keep pricing fair and competitive. Typical service call rates (before parts and labor) generally range from $75 to $150, with emergency and after-hours services commanding a premium. The top contractors are known for their professionalism, licensing, and strong customer service focus, providing residents with reliable options for all plumbing needs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ames regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Ames, Iowa.
Ames has very hard water, which leads to significant mineral buildup (limescale) in pipes, water heaters, and fixtures, reducing efficiency and lifespan. The freeze-thaw cycles of Iowa winters also stress pipes, increasing the risk of bursts. We recommend installing a water softener to combat scale and ensuring pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces are properly insulated before winter.
Costs vary by job complexity and parts, but for standard services, Ames homeowners can expect: fixing a leaky faucet ($150-$300), clearing a main drain line ($200-$500), and replacing a standard 50-gallon water heater ($1,200-$2,500 installed). Always get a detailed, written estimate. Note that Iowa's 7% sales tax applies to both parts and labor for plumbing services.
Late summer and early fall are ideal for scheduling non-urgent projects, as plumbers are less busy with winter emergencies. For urgent issues, yes, emergency service (nights, weekends, holidays) typically incurs a higher trip charge, often 1.5x to 2x the standard rate. Proactive maintenance in the fall to prevent frozen pipes is always more cost-effective than a winter emergency repair.
Always verify the plumber is licensed by the State of Iowa and insured. For Ames-specific work, choose a company familiar with local codes, the age of housing stock (including many older homes near ISU), and our soil conditions that can affect sewer lines. Check for local reviews and memberships in organizations like the Ames Chamber of Commerce for established community reputation.
In Ames, you own the sewer lateral from your house to the connection at the city's main sewer line in the street. Blockages in this private line are your responsibility to repair. However, if multiple neighbors are experiencing issues simultaneously, it could indicate a city main problem. You can contact the City of Ames Public Works Department at (515) 239-5150 to report and inquire before calling a plumber.