The Best Plumbing Contractors in Carter, MT

Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Carter, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Big Sandy Plumbing & Heating

4.7
(85 reviews)
Verified

A long-standing, family-owned business known for its reliability and deep roots in the local community. They offer a comprehensive range of residential and commercial plumbing, heating, and excavation services, making them a one-stop shop for many property needs. They are praised for their honest pricing and experienced technicians.

103 Main St, Big Sandy, MT 59520 (Approx. 30 miles from Carter)

Specialties & Features

Emergency plumbing repairs
Water heater installation and repair
Drain cleaning and sewer services

Business Information

Years in Business:25 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Havre Plumbing & Heating

4.5
(120 reviews)
Verified

A well-established and highly professional provider serving north-central Montana. They have a strong focus on both installation projects and emergency repairs, backed by a team of licensed plumbers. Their larger operation allows them to handle complex commercial jobs as well as standard residential services.

439 1st St, Havre, MT 59501 (Approx. 40 miles from Carter)

Specialties & Features

Pipe installation and replacement
Commercial plumbing services
Bathroom and kitchen plumbing

Business Information

Years in Business:20 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

B & D Plumbing LLC

4.8
(65 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, smaller contractor known for exceptional customer service and personalized attention. They specialize in residential plumbing systems and are frequently commended for their prompt response to emergencies and meticulous workmanship on repairs and installations.

Serves the Fort Benton & Geraldine area (Approx. 35-45 miles from Carter)

Specialties & Features

Leak detection and repair
Residential plumbing services
Water heater installation and repair

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in Carter

** The plumbing market serving Carter, Montana, is characteristic of a rural region. There are no large corporate franchises; instead, the market is composed of established, local, family-owned businesses and independent master plumbers who service a wide geographic area. Competition is moderate but based heavily on reputation, reliability, and long-term community relationships rather than marketing. Due to the significant travel distances involved (service calls can easily be 30-50 miles one-way), customers should expect trip charges or higher minimum service fees compared to urban areas. However, this is standard and reflects the cost of doing business in a rural setting. The overall quality of service is high, as these businesses rely on word-of-mouth and cannot afford a poor reputation in a close-knit community. Pricing for labor is competitive within the region, but parts may have a slight markup due to logistics and availability. For emergency services, especially, it is crucial to confirm service areas and response times directly with the provider.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Carter regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in Carter

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Carter, Montana.

1How do Carter's harsh winters impact my plumbing, and what preventative maintenance should I prioritize?

Carter's sub-freezing winter temperatures pose a significant risk of frozen and burst pipes, especially in crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls. Homeowners should prioritize insulating exposed pipes, disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses, and ensuring their home's heat is never set too low. It's also wise to know the location of your main water shut-off valve for emergencies, as a burst pipe in winter can cause extensive water damage before a plumber can arrive.

2What is a typical price range for common plumbing services in the Carter area?

Pricing in Carter is influenced by travel distances for providers who may service a wide rural area. A simple service call (e.g., unclogging a drain) typically ranges from $150-$300, while more complex jobs like water heater replacement can range from $1,200 to $2,500+ depending on the unit and installation complexity. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes potential trip charges, especially given Montana's lack of state sales tax on services, which keeps costs more straightforward.

3Are there any local well and septic system regulations in Carter I should know about before repairs or installation?

Yes, as a rural community, many Carter homes rely on private wells and septic systems, which are regulated by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and local Prairie County regulations. Any new installation or major repair to a septic system requires a permit and likely a site evaluation. For wells, state law requires licensed well drillers and pump installers, so always verify your plumber holds the appropriate Montana licenses for this specific work.

4What should I look for when choosing a reliable plumber in Carter?

First, verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured to work in Montana. Given the rural setting, choose a provider with a proven local reputation for reliability and prompt response, especially during winter emergencies. Ask if they have specific experience with common Carter home systems, such as older galvanized pipes, well pumps, and septic fields. Checking local references from neighbors is invaluable.

5Why is my water pressure suddenly low, and is this a common issue in Carter?

Low pressure is a frequent concern and can have several causes. In Carter, a primary suspect is often a failing or clogged pressure tank on a private well system. Other common local issues include mineral buildup in pipes from hard well water or a partially closed main shut-off valve. Before calling a plumber, check if the problem is isolated to one fixture or whole-house, as this helps diagnose whether it's an internal fixture issue or a system-wide problem with your well or pressure regulator.