Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Carthage, Missouri. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing, family-owned business based directly in Carthage, specializing in sewer and septic services. They are the go-to local expert for drain and sewer line issues, including video inspections and jetting. Their deep community roots and focus on a key specialty make them a trusted name.
A highly reputable and well-established plumbing and HVAC contractor from nearby Joplin. They have a strong track record for both residential and commercial plumbing, including new construction, remodels, and emergency repairs. Their professional team handles everything from simple leaks to complex water heater and pipe system installations.
A prominent regional service provider known for its broad service range and responsive emergency team. Based in Joplin, they serve a wide area including Carthage. They receive consistent praise for professionalism, fair pricing, and their ability to handle a full spectrum of plumbing needs, from emergency leaks to drain cleaning and fixture installation.
** The plumbing market in Carthage, Missouri, reflects its status as a small city with a population of approximately 15,000. The local market is not saturated with a high number of competitors, leading residents and businesses to rely on a mix of one or two highly specialized local contractors (like A-1 Sewer & Septic) and several established, full-service providers from the larger Joplin metro area just 15 minutes away. **Average Quality:** The quality of service is generally high, with an emphasis on personal reputation and long-term community presence. Companies that succeed in this market are those with strong word-of-mouth referrals and proven reliability. **Competition Level:** Competition is moderate. While there aren't dozens of companies vying for business, the top providers from Joplin actively serve Carthage, creating a competitive environment that benefits consumers through quality service and reasonable pricing. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typical for the Midwestern rural/small-city market. Emergency or after-hours services command a premium. For standard jobs, pricing is considered fair and competitive, with most companies offering free estimates. The cost of living in the area helps keep labor rates more affordable than in major metropolitan areas.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Carthage regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Carthage, Missouri.
Carthage's clay-rich soil expands when wet and contracts during dry spells, which can lead to shifting and stress on underground sewer lines, causing cracks, blockages, or misaligned pipes. Furthermore, our cold Missouri winters require special attention to prevent frozen pipes; uninsulated pipes in crawl spaces or against exterior walls are particularly vulnerable. It's a local best practice to insulate pipes and have your main sewer line inspected with a camera every few years to catch root intrusion or soil movement early.
Always verify that a plumber is licensed by the State of Missouri (required for any work beyond simple repairs) and carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation. For extra assurance, seek out plumbers who are familiar with Carthage's older housing stock and its specific plumbing materials, like galvanized steel pipes common in mid-century homes. Checking for membership in a local organization like the Carthage Area Chamber of Commerce can also indicate a established, community-focused business.
Costs vary based on the job's complexity and parts, but for common services, Carthage homeowners can expect to pay $150-$450 for a standard service call and repair (like a faucet or toilet fix), $1,000-$3,000 for a water heater replacement, and $2,500-$8,000+ for major sewer line repair, which is a frequent need here. Always request a detailed, written estimate before work begins, as prices can be influenced by local material availability and the difficulty of excavating in our dense soil.
The ideal times are late fall (before freezing temperatures hit) to winterize outdoor faucets and inspect indoor pipe insulation, and early spring to check for any winter damage and assess your sump pump before the rainy season. Scheduling non-emergency services like drain cleaning or water heater maintenance during these shoulder seasons is often easier, as plumbers are extremely busy during sudden winter freezes and the peak summer construction period.
In Carthage, you are responsible for the sewer lateral from your house all the way to the connection with the city's main sewer line in the street or alley. The city maintains the main line itself. If you experience a backup, it's crucial to call a plumber first for a camera inspection to diagnose the location and cause of the blockage. If the camera shows the problem is at or past the city's cleanout, then you would contact Carthage Water & Electric Plant (CWEP) for assistance.