Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Buffalo, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, full-service plumbing contractor based in the nearby hub of Big Timber. They are known for their rapid response times, professional crew, and comprehensive service list that covers everything from routine maintenance to major commercial installations and emergency repairs. They explicitly serve the Buffalo area.
A well-established and larger regional provider based in Billings, serving a wide area of Southern Montana, including Buffalo. They offer 24/7 emergency services and have the capacity for large-scale residential and commercial projects. Their longevity and large number of positive reviews indicate strong reliability and customer trust.
A local, owner-operated plumbing service known for personalized customer service and deep roots in the region. While their listed address is in Harlowton, they provide services throughout Fergus and neighboring counties, including Buffalo. They are a strong choice for residential plumbing needs, remodels, and repairs.
** The plumbing market serving Buffalo, Montana, is characteristic of a rural area. There are no large, national franchise chains physically located in Buffalo itself. Instead, the market is served by a network of reputable, local-to-regional contractors from neighboring towns like Big Timber, Harlowton, and Billings. The level of competition is moderate, with several established, high-quality providers vying for business in the region. **Service Quality:** The average quality is high, as these businesses rely heavily on local reputation and word-of-mouth. The top providers are consistently rated between 4.6 and 4.8 stars, reflecting strong customer satisfaction. **Pricing:** Typical pricing is competitive for the region but includes a "travel time" or "service call" fee to cover the distance to Buffalo. Customers should expect this and obtain quotes in advance. Emergency and after-hours services will command a premium, as is standard industry-wide. Overall, consumers have access to skilled, licensed professionals, but must plan for the logistics and associated costs of serving a rural location.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Buffalo regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Buffalo, Montana.
Buffalo's sub-zero winter temperatures make frozen and burst pipes a major risk, especially for pipes in unheated crawl spaces, exterior walls, or outbuildings. The most critical steps are to disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves, and know the location of your main water shut-off valve for emergencies. For seasonal cabins, a professional to completely drain the plumbing system is highly recommended to prevent catastrophic damage.
Pricing in Buffalo and rural Montana often includes a significant travel/time charge due to the large service area. For a standard service call, expect a base fee of $100-$200, plus hourly labor ($80-$120/hr) and parts. A simple faucet repair might total $150-$300, while hydro-jetting a severely clogged main line can cost $400-$800. Always request an estimate that breaks down trip charges, labor, and materials.
Yes, Buffalo and Fergus County adhere to the Montana State Plumbing Code. Permits are typically required for major work like installing a new water heater, re-piping, adding a bathroom, or any work on the sewer line connecting to the municipal system or a private septic tank. A licensed local plumber will know the specific county requirements and can usually pull the necessary permits on your behalf.
Prioritize plumbers licensed by the State of Montana with verifiable local references. Given the distances involved, choose a provider with a clear service area that includes Buffalo and a guaranteed response window for emergencies. It's also wise to confirm they carry proper insurance and offer warranties on their work, as you'll rely on them for timely service, especially during winter freezes.
In our area, common causes include tree root intrusion into older sewer lines, grease buildup, and septic tank issues. If multiple fixtures are slow or you notice soggy ground or sewage odors near your drain field, call a professional immediately. Regular septic tank pumping (every 3-5 years) is crucial for Buffalo homeowners to avoid backups and costly drain field repairs. A plumber can also camera-inspect lines to pinpoint root problems.