Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Melville, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A full-service, family-owned plumbing and HVAC contractor known for professional and reliable service. They offer 24/7 emergency response and serve both residential and commercial clients throughout Sweet Grass County, making them a top-tier choice for the Melville area.
A local, highly-rated contractor specializing in both plumbing and heating systems. They are praised for their prompt communication, quality workmanship, and deep knowledge of the systems common in rural and older homes in the region.
A versatile and responsive local plumbing service known for handling a wide array of jobs, from minor faucet repairs to major installations. They are a go-to for many local residents and businesses for their dependable and straightforward service.
** The plumbing market serving Melville, Montana, is characterized by a small but highly competent and localized group of contractors based in nearby Big Timber. Due to the rural nature of the area and the lack of large national franchises, the market is dominated by long-standing, family-owned or locally-owned businesses. This fosters a competitive environment based heavily on reputation, reliability, and community trust rather than price alone. **Average Quality:** The quality of service is generally very high, as these businesses rely on repeat customers and word-of-mouth referrals within the small community. Poor service providers are unlikely to remain in business long. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there are only a handful of dedicated plumbing companies, they are well-established and cover a broad range of services. Many also handle heating (HVAC) work, which is common for contractors in rural climates. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typically at or slightly above the national average. This accounts for the higher operational costs associated with serving a widespread rural population, including longer travel times and vehicle wear-and-tear for service calls to outlying areas like Melville. However, customers generally report high value for the cost, citing the expertise and reliability of the local providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Melville regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Melville, Montana.
Melville's harsh winters with deep frost lines (often 5-6 feet deep) make frozen and burst pipes a primary risk. The most critical preventative steps are to fully drain and winterize outdoor spigots and irrigation systems each fall and to ensure any pipes in unheated crawl spaces or along exterior walls are properly insulated. It's also wise to know the location of your main water shut-off valve in case of an emergency freeze-up.
Costs can vary based on the plumber's travel distance in our rural area and the job's complexity. Generally, you can expect service call fees starting around $75-$125, with hourly labor rates between $90-$150. For example, repairing a leaky faucet might cost $150-$300, while a water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 installed, depending on the unit type and fuel source (propane is common here).
Yes, plumbing work in Montana must comply with the state-adopted Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). In rural areas like Melville, permits are often required for major work like installing a new septic system, adding a bathroom, or replacing a water heater. It's best to consult with your local Sweet Grass County building department or choose a licensed plumber who will handle all necessary permits for you.
First, verify they hold a current Montana Journeyman or Master Plumber license. Given our remote location, choose a provider with a proven service area that includes Melville and ask about their emergency response times, especially in winter. Look for established local companies with strong community references, as they understand the specific challenges of well water, septic systems, and freeze protection common to our homes.
Common well-related issues include failing pressure tanks, sediment clogging fixtures due to hard water, and pump failures. For septic systems, the main concerns are backups due to lack of regular pumping (recommended every 3-5 years) and drain field failure, often caused by system overload or compaction from vehicles. Seasonal thaws can also saturate drain fields, so managing water usage in spring is crucial.