The Best Plumbing Contractors in Durham, NH

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

#1

Artisan Plumbing & Heating

4.8
(112 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, full-service plumbing and heating contractor serving the Seacoast region. They specialize in both emergency repairs and scheduled installations, known for their prompt response and expertise with older homes common in the Durham area.

Service Area: Durham, NH 03824

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Water Heater Installation & Repair
Drain Cleaning
Pipe Replacement
Leak Detection

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Hometown Plumbing & Heating

4.7
(94 reviews)
Verified

A trusted local provider offering comprehensive residential and commercial plumbing services. They are praised for their clean, professional work and deep understanding of New Hampshire plumbing codes, making them a reliable choice for both new construction and repairs in the Durham community.

15 Newmarket Rd, Durham, NH 03824

Specialties & Features

Residential & Commercial Plumbing
Sewer and Drain Services
Bathroom & Kitchen Plumbing
Emergency Repairs
Water Heater Services

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Mister Plumber of the Seacoast

4.6
(127 reviews)
Verified

Serving Durham and the entire Seacoast region, this company is a specialist in advanced drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, and camera inspections. They are a go-to for complex clog and sewer line issues, offering 24/7 emergency availability with fast dispatch times.

Service Area: Durham, NH 03824

Specialties & Features

Drain Cleaning & Hydro-Jetting
Sewer Camera Inspection
24/7 Emergency Service
Pipe Repair
Water Filtration Systems

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in Durham

Durham, home to the University of New Hampshire, has a mix of historic colonial homes, modern residences, and significant commercial university infrastructure. The local plumbing market is characterized by high demand for emergency services (especially for student rentals), expertise in dealing with older pipe systems common in New England, and quick response times. Common issues include frozen pipes in winter, drain clogs in older buildings, and water heater failures. All reputable providers are expected to be fully licensed and insured per New Hampshire state regulations.

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 Durham regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in Durham

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Durham, New Hampshire.

1What are the most common plumbing issues for Durham homeowners, especially related to our climate?

The most frequent issues are frozen and burst pipes due to our harsh New Hampshire winters, and clogged drains from hard water mineral buildup common in the Seacoast region. Seasonal temperature swings can also stress pipes and water heaters. We strongly recommend insulating pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces and scheduling a pre-winter inspection to prevent emergencies.

2How do I choose a reliable plumber in the Durham area, and are there specific licenses I should verify?

Always verify that the plumber holds a current New Hampshire Master Plumber's license, which is required by state law to perform most plumbing work. For local reliability, choose a company familiar with Durham's older housing stock near UNH and the specific water conditions. Check for good standing with the Better Business Bureau and read local reviews to gauge responsiveness, especially during our busy winter freeze seasons.

3What is the typical cost range for common plumbing services in Durham, like water heater replacement or fixing a leaky pipe?

Costs vary, but a standard 50-gallon water heater replacement typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,500 installed, factoring in New Hampshire's higher labor and material costs. Emergency service for a burst pipe can start at $300+ for after-hours calls, plus repair costs. Always request a detailed, written estimate upfront, as prices can be higher for historic homes with older, harder-to-access plumbing systems.

4Are there any local regulations in Durham I should know about before starting a plumbing renovation, like a bathroom remodel?

Yes. All plumbing work must comply with the New Hampshire State Plumbing Code and requires a permit from the Durham Building Department for anything beyond simple repairs. This is strictly enforced. If your home is in the Oyster River watershed, there may be additional environmental considerations for drainage. Your licensed plumber should handle the permit process, which is crucial for ensuring inspections and protecting your home's value.

5When is the best time of year to schedule non-emergency plumbing maintenance or upgrades in Durham?

The ideal times are late spring and early fall. These periods avoid the peak demand of winter emergencies (frozen pipes) and the busy season for summer home renovations. Scheduling during these shoulder seasons, like April-May or September-October, often results in better availability and sometimes more flexible pricing from local plumbers before the winter rush begins.