Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Selma, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A-1 Plumbing is a highly-rated, family-owned and operated business based in Ottumwa, known for its rapid response times and comprehensive service list. They emphasize honesty, upfront pricing, and quality workmanship for both residential and commercial clients. They are a top choice for emergency services in the region.
Serving Southeast Iowa for decades, Fairfield Plumbing & Heating offers a full suite of plumbing services with a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Their team is skilled in both traditional and modern plumbing systems, making them a reliable choice for new installations, remodels, and repairs.
As a local contractor based in the county seat, Van Buren Plumbing has deep roots in the community and is a go-to provider for many residents in Van Buren County, including Selma. They are known for personalized service and handling a wide array of plumbing issues, from simple fixes to complex installations.
** The plumbing market for Selma, Iowa, is characteristic of a rural, unincorporated area. There are no major national franchise chains (like Roto-Rooter or Mr. Rooter) physically located within Selma itself. Consequently, the market is served by a network of established, local and regional contractors from nearby population centers such as Ottumwa, Fairfield, and Keosauqua. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While the number of providers physically in Selma is zero, there is healthy competition among the 5-10 reputable contractors in the 20-mile radius who actively serve the area. This competition helps maintain service quality and fair pricing. **Average Quality:** The quality of service is generally high. These local businesses rely heavily on community reputation and long-term customer relationships. Poor service is not sustainable in this type of market, so the surviving companies are typically skilled, reliable, and trustworthy. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive but reflects the service area's rural nature. Homeowners can expect to pay a standard service call fee ($75 - $150) in addition to hourly labor rates ($80 - $130/hour). Emergency or after-hours services will carry a significant premium. Due to travel distances, some companies may add a trip charge for service calls to Selma, which is a standard practice for rural areas. It is always recommended to request an estimate before work begins.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Selma regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Selma, Iowa.
Selma's harsh Iowa winters, with temperatures often well below freezing, make frozen and burst pipes a major risk. Homeowners should prioritize insulating pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces and garages, and know the location of their main water shut-off valve for emergencies. It's also wise to have a plumber perform a pre-winter inspection to identify vulnerable lines, as local soil conditions and older home foundations common in the area can increase susceptibility to freezing.
Costs vary based on the job's complexity and parts, but regional pricing for our rural area typically sees service call fees starting around $80-$120. Common repairs like fixing a leaky faucet might cost $150-$300, while unclogging a main drain line can range from $200-$600. More involved work, like water heater replacement, generally starts around $1,200 and up, with prices influenced by travel time for plumbers serving the wider Van Buren County area.
Yes, as many Selma homes are on private wells and septic systems rather than city sewer, this critically impacts plumbing. Any work affecting wastewater flow requires compliance with Van Buren County Environmental Health Department regulations for septic systems. Furthermore, installing certain water-saving fixtures or water softeners often requires specific adjustments to work effectively with well water, making it essential to hire a plumber experienced with rural Iowa water systems.
First, verify they are licensed and insured to work in Iowa. For Selma, prioritize plumbers with extensive experience maintaining and repairing older home systems and well/septic infrastructure common here. Check for local references and confirm they service the Selma zip code (52588) to ensure prompt response, especially for emergencies. A trustworthy plumber will provide clear, upfront estimates and explain how local factors like hard water from wells might affect their recommendations.
This is often a sign of a blockage in your main sewer line or a full septic tank. In Selma, it's a common concern due to two key factors: older properties with tree root intrusions into clay sewer lines, and homes with septic systems where the drain field may be failing or the tank needs pumping. Seasonal thaws and heavy rains in Iowa's spring can also saturate the ground, exacerbating septic system backups, making prompt professional diagnosis crucial.