The Best Plumbing Contractors in South Orange, NJ

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

#1

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

4.8
(145 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated plumbing service known for its punctuality and professional technicians. They specialize in both residential and commercial plumbing with a strong focus on emergency services, water heater installation/repair, and comprehensive drain cleaning. They serve the South Orange area and are known for their upfront pricing.

Serving South Orange, NJ 07079 (Based in nearby Maplewood)

Specialties & Features

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

Business Information

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

Gold Medal Service

4.7
(220 reviews)
Verified

A family-owned and operated provider offering full-service plumbing, heating, and air conditioning. They have a strong reputation for emergency plumbing repairs, expert leak detection, and handling complex kitchen and bathroom plumbing projects. Their team is well-versed in local NJ codes and regulations.

Serving South Orange, NJ 07079 (Based in East Hanover)

Specialties & Features

Emergency Plumbing Repairs
Bathroom & Kitchen Plumbing
Leak Detection & Repair
Water Heater Services
Sewer and Drain Cleaning

Business Information

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

ProActive Plumbing & Drain

4.6
(89 reviews)
Verified

A local, reliable plumbing contractor that specializes in drain cleaning, sewer line services, and emergency repairs. They are known for their quick response times and use of advanced diagnostic tools for pinpointing plumbing issues without unnecessary damage to property.

Serving South Orange, NJ 07079 (Based in West Orange)

Specialties & Features

Drain Cleaning & Hydro-Jetting
Sewer Line Repair & Replacement
24/7 Emergency Service
Pipe Installation
Camera Inspections

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in South Orange

South Orange, NJ, features a mix of historic homes and modern constructions, leading to a diverse range of plumbing needs. Common issues include repairs for older galvanized steel pipes, drain blockages in mature sewer systems, and emergency leaks. The local market is served by a combination of highly-rated national franchises and reputable local contractors from surrounding Essex County towns. Homeowners and businesses prioritize quick response times for emergencies and expertise in dealing with the specific challenges of older building infrastructure.

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 South Orange regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in South Orange

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in South Orange, New Jersey.

1What are the most common plumbing issues for South Orange homeowners, especially related to our climate and older housing stock?

Given South Orange's many historic homes and our Northeast climate, the most frequent issues are frozen and burst pipes in winter, sewer line backups from invasive tree roots (common with our mature oaks and maples), and corrosion or failure of old galvanized steel pipes. Seasonal temperature swings also stress plumbing systems, making spring a common time for leaks to appear as pipes thaw and contract.

2How much should I expect to pay for common plumbing services in South Orange, and are there specific local cost factors?

Plumbing costs in South Orange are generally aligned with the higher regional rates of Northern New Jersey. For example, a standard water heater installation typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500, while emergency after-hours calls have higher minimum fees. A key local cost factor is working in historic homes, which often requires specialized techniques to access pipes and may involve compliance with township preservation guidelines, potentially increasing labor time.

3Are there any local South Orange or New Jersey regulations I should know about before starting a plumbing project?

Yes, significant plumbing work in South Orange requires a permit from the Township Building Department, and all work must comply with the New Jersey State Plumbing Code. Furthermore, if your home is in the Historic Preservation Commission district, exterior work or modifications visible from the street may need additional approval. Always hire a plumber licensed by the State of New Jersey, as this is a legal requirement for performing contracted plumbing work.

4What should I look for when choosing a reliable plumber serving South Orange?

Prioritize plumbers who are both licensed by the State of New Jersey and insured, and who have verifiable experience with South Orange's older home infrastructure. Look for providers familiar with the township's permit process and ask for local references. A reputable South Orange plumber will offer clear, upfront pricing and be able to discuss common local issues like dealing with cast iron drains or Essex County's hard water.

5When is the best time of year to schedule non-emergency plumbing maintenance or replacements in South Orange?

The ideal times are late spring and early fall. These periods avoid the peak winter emergency season for frozen pipes and the high summer demand for HVAC-related service. Scheduling during these milder seasons ensures better availability and often more competitive pricing. It's also the perfect time to prepare your system for winter by insulating pipes and servicing your water heater before cold Essex County temperatures set in.