Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Hays, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing, family-owned and operated business known for its reliability and broad range of services for both residential and commercial clients. They are a cornerstone of the Havre plumbing community and have a strong reputation for handling everything from routine maintenance to major installations and emergency repairs.
A highly-rated, modern plumbing service known for prompt response times and customer-focused service. They emphasize their expertise in diagnostics and repair, making them a top choice for leak detection and emergency situations. Their reviews consistently praise their professionalism and fair pricing.
A well-established provider based in Chinook that serves the entire northern Montana region, including the communities on the Fort Belknap Reservation. They offer a full suite of plumbing services and are known for their work on both older homes and new construction projects.
** The plumbing market serving Hays, Montana, is characterized by a reliance on regional contractors from larger hubs like Havre (approximately 30-40 minutes away) and Chinook. Due to the rural nature of the area, there are no large corporate plumbing chains; the market is exclusively served by local, family-owned or small businesses. This fosters a competitive environment based on reputation, reliability, and personal service rather than price alone. **Service Quality & Competition:** The quality of service is generally high, as these businesses rely heavily on word-of-mouth and long-term community relationships. Competition exists between the established Havre and Chinook providers for the broader regional territory. **Typical Pricing:** Consumers should expect pricing that reflects the rural service area. While hourly labor rates may be competitive with state averages, job quotes will often include a significant travel time and mileage charge to cover the distance to Hays and other outlying communities. For emergency calls after standard business hours, premium rates are standard. It is always advisable to request an estimate that clearly outlines both labor and travel costs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hays regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Hays, Montana.
Hays's harsh Montana winters and remote location on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation significantly impact plumbing services. Costs can be higher due to travel time for plumbers coming from larger towns like Havre, and emergency winter calls for frozen pipes are both urgent and more complex. Availability may be limited, especially during severe weather, so building a relationship with a local or regional plumber who serves the area is crucial for timely service.
The single most important task is preventing frozen pipes in the fall. Before temperatures drop, you must completely drain and winterize any exterior faucets and irrigation systems. For crawl spaces, ensure vents are closed and consider insulating pipes, as our extended sub-freezing periods can cause bursts inside homes, leading to major water damage. A proactive inspection in early autumn is highly recommended.
Yes, most homes in Hays rely on private wells and septic systems, not municipal water and sewer. Regular well water testing for minerals and bacteria is essential for health. For septic systems, the rocky soil common in the area can affect drainage, and systems must be pumped and inspected every 3-5 years to prevent backups and comply with local tribal and state environmental regulations.
Prioritize plumbers licensed to work in Montana and who have proven experience with rural, remote properties and well/septic systems. Ask for local references in Hays or nearby communities like Lodge Pole. Given the distance for parts and backup, choose a provider known for clear communication about scheduling and who offers emergency services for winter pipe emergencies, which are common here.
Immediately shut off the main water valve to prevent a burst pipe from flooding when it thaws, and gently apply heat (like a hairdryer) to the frozen section if accessible. For a long-term solution, a plumber can reroute vulnerable pipes to interior walls, install pipe insulation, or even add a heat trace cable—all common upgrades for our climate. Properly insulating your home's crawl space or foundation perimeter is also key.