Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Des Moines, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Gold Seal Plumbing is a highly-rated, family-owned and operated company known for its prompt, professional service and expertise in both residential and commercial plumbing. They emphasize upfront pricing and have a strong reputation for handling complex jobs, including repipes and large-scale water heater installations.
Consistently earning near-perfect reviews, Des Moines' Best Plumbing focuses on customer satisfaction and technical excellence. They are praised for their clean, respectful technicians and effective problem-solving, particularly for drain and sewer issues and emergency calls.
A well-established and trusted name in the area, Plumb-Rite offers comprehensive plumbing and HVAC services. Their longevity and large team allow them to handle a wide range of scheduled and emergency services reliably. They are known for their work on water heaters and general plumbing maintenance.
** The plumbing market in Des Moines is competitive and features a mix of large national franchises and strong, locally-owned contractors. The overall quality is high, with consumers showing a clear preference for local companies that demonstrate reliability, transparent pricing, and excellent customer service. The top-tier local providers, like those listed above, consistently outperform national chains in customer review ratings. Competition is robust, which helps keep pricing fair and encourages high service standards. Typical pricing for common services is in line with national averages; for example, a standard water heater installation typically ranges from $1,100 to $2,500, while emergency call-out fees often start between $75 and $150, plus the cost of repairs. The concentration of several highly-rated plumbing businesses in suburbs like Urbandale, which directly serves the Des Moines metro, indicates a strong and responsive service network for the entire area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Des Moines regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Des Moines, Iowa.
Des Moines' harsh winters with extended freezing temperatures pose a significant risk of frozen and burst pipes, especially in uninsulated crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls. Essential preventative steps include insulating exposed pipes, disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses, and keeping cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate. It's also highly recommended to know the location of your main water shut-off valve in case of an emergency freeze-related burst.
Costs vary based on job complexity and materials, but regional averages provide a guide. A standard 50-gallon gas water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 installed, including disposal. Professional drain cleaning for a main line clog averages $200-$400. Always get itemized estimates, as Des Moines' older housing stock (common in neighborhoods like Sherman Hill) may involve additional labor for access or updating outdated plumbing components.
Yes, plumbing work in Des Moines must comply with the Iowa State Plumbing Code and requires permits for most work beyond simple repairs, such as rerouting pipes, adding fixtures, or replacing water heaters. Reputable licensed plumbers will pull these permits on your behalf. Additionally, the Des Moines Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation District has specific rules about sump pump and downspout connections to the sanitary sewer, which are illegal and can result in fines.
Always verify that the plumber is licensed by the State of Iowa and carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation. Look for established local companies with strong community reputations and reviews that mention punctuality, clear communication, and neat work. For emergency services, which are critical during our cold snaps, prioritize plumbers who offer 24/7 Des Moines-area service with guaranteed response times.
This is often a sign of a blockage in your main sewer line or a problem with the city's public sewer. It's a frequent issue in Des Moines due to two main factors: older neighborhoods with aging clay sewer lines susceptible to root intrusion and collapse, and the region's expansive clay soil, which can shift and cause pipe misalignment. A professional can perform a camera inspection to determine if the blockage is on your property or in the public line, which you would then report to Des Moines Public Works.