Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Ellicott City, Maryland. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, family-owned and operated plumbing company known for its exceptional customer service and expertise in both residential and commercial plumbing. They offer 24/7 emergency response and are specialists in water heater services, drain cleaning, and repiping.
A large, trusted regional provider with a strong local presence in Ellicott City. They offer comprehensive plumbing, electrical, and HVAC services. Their plumbing division is well-staffed for rapid emergency response and handles everything from minor leaks to major commercial installations.
A veteran-owned local business that has served the Howard County area for decades. They are known for their technical expertise, professional crews, and focus on solving complex plumbing issues, including slab leaks and full sewer line replacements.
The plumbing market in Ellicott City is competitive and service-oriented, with a mix of long-standing local businesses and larger regional companies. A key local consideration is the area's hilly terrain and aging infrastructure in historic districts, which can lead to specific challenges with sewer line backups, pipe corrosion, and foundation shifting that affects plumbing. Many homes have older cast iron or clay sewer lines that are prone to root intrusion and collapse. Emergency services are in high demand due to these aging systems. Residents typically seek providers with strong reputations for honesty, expertise in trenchless repair technologies, and rapid response times, especially during the frequent heavy rain events that can stress drainage systems.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ellicott City regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Ellicott City, Maryland.
Ellicott City's freeze-thaw cycles in winter can lead to burst pipes in poorly insulated crawl spaces or exterior walls. Furthermore, many historic homes in the area have older galvanized steel pipes that are prone to corrosion and reduced water flow over time. Seasonal heavy rainfall can also overwhelm older drainage systems and sump pumps, leading to basement backups, a frequent local concern.
Pricing in the Baltimore metro area, including Ellicott City, is typically higher than national averages due to local labor and business costs. For example, a standard water heater installation might range from $1,200 to $2,500+, while fixing a running toilet could be $150-$350. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes parts, labor, and any potential permits required by Howard County.
Yes, Howard County requires permits for most significant plumbing work, including water heater replacements, re-piping, and adding new fixtures. Reputable local plumbers will handle this process. It's crucial to ensure any work is permitted and inspected to comply with Maryland's state plumbing code and local amendments, which protect your home's safety and resale value.
Prioritize plumbers who are licensed, insured, and have a physical local address. Check for membership in organizations like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of Maryland. Given the hilly terrain and flood history here, choose a provider with specific experience in basement waterproofing, sump pump systems, and navigating older home infrastructures common in our area.
This is a very common issue, often related to the area's clay soil and aging sewer lines. In spring and during heavy rainstorms, groundwater can infiltrate cracked sewer pipes, causing overload and backups. Tree roots seeking moisture are also a major culprit for invading older sewer lines. A professional video inspection is the best way to diagnose if the problem is in your home's line or the public main.