Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Boston, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading full-service plumbing and heating company serving Boston since 2006. They specialize in both residential and commercial plumbing, with a strong emphasis on 24/7 emergency services. Known for their expertise in dealing with Boston's historic building plumbing systems and local codes.
Part of the national Roto-Rooter franchise with a strong local presence in Boston. They provide comprehensive plumbing services with rapid response times for emergencies. Their technicians are specially trained in drain cleaning and sewer line services using advanced hydro-jetting and camera inspection technology.
Specializes in emergency plumbing services with true 24/7 availability, including holidays. They focus on quick response times for Boston residents and businesses, handling everything from minor leaks to major pipe bursts. Known for their expertise in leak detection and repair without unnecessary demolition.
Boston's plumbing market is characterized by aging infrastructure in historic buildings, harsh winter conditions that cause pipe freezing and bursting, and strict local plumbing codes. Many homes have older cast iron pipes that require specialized knowledge for repair and replacement. The market demands providers with expertise in both historic preservation and modern plumbing technology, with emergency services being particularly valuable due to the city's extreme weather patterns.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Boston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Boston, Massachusetts.
Plumbing costs in Boston are influenced by higher business operating expenses, strict local building codes, and the prevalence of older housing stock with complex, outdated systems. For common services, you can expect to pay $150-$350 for a drain cleaning, $300-$600 for a toilet repair or replacement, and $1,000-$3,000+ for a water heater installation. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes labor, parts, and any potential Boston-specific permit fees before work begins.
Boston's harsh winters make frozen and burst pipes a major seasonal concern, particularly in older homes with poor insulation in basements and crawl spaces. Furthermore, the city's historic infrastructure means many homes have galvanized steel or lead service lines, which are prone to corrosion and restricted water flow. Proactive measures like insulating pipes and knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve are critical for Boston homeowners.
Always verify the plumber holds a valid **Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure (DPL) Journeyman or Master Plumber license**, which is legally required. For major work, ensure they carry both general liability and worker's compensation insurance. Given Boston's historic districts and complex codes, prioritize local companies with strong references for work on homes of a similar age and style as yours, as they will be familiar with local inspection requirements.
Yes, Boston has stringent regulations. Most plumbing work beyond simple repairs requires a permit from the **Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD)**. Crucially, the City of Boston's plumbing code has specific rules about lead abatement; if your home was built before 1978, special procedures are required when disturbing pipes. A reputable, licensed plumber will handle this permitting process and ensure compliance.
The most frequent emergencies are burst pipes in winter, severe basement backups due to combined sewer overflows in older neighborhoods, and failing water heaters. Response times vary, but many established Boston plumbing companies offer 24/7 emergency service with a 1-2 hour window. Be prepared for a higher emergency service call fee, especially during nights, weekends, or major winter storms when demand is highest.