The Best Plumbing Contractors in New York, NY

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

#1

Harris Water and Sewer

4.8
(425 reviews)
Verified

A premier, family-owned plumbing and sewer contractor with over a century of experience serving NYC. They are experts in handling the complex infrastructure of the city, specializing in water main and sewer line replacements, which are common issues in older buildings. They are known for their 24/7 emergency response and deep knowledge of local codes.

255 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Water Main Replacement
Sewer Line Replacement
Municipal Work
Pipe Installation

Business Information

Years in Business:68 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service

4.7
(580 reviews)
Verified

A highly respected and longstanding provider in the NYC area, Balkan specializes in the most complex sewer and water main jobs. They are a go-to for co-op and condo boards, handling large-scale projects and emergency repairs with a team of master plumbers. Their expertise is particularly focused on the critical infrastructure connecting buildings to city lines.

133-03 32nd Ave, Flushing, NY 11354

Specialties & Features

Sewer Services
Water Main Service
Emergency Repairs
Commercial Plumbing
Excavation

Business Information

Years in Business:72 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

John the Plumber

4.6
(210 reviews)
Verified

Offering a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services across the five boroughs, this company is known for its responsive emergency service and customer-focused approach. They handle everything from minor leaks and drain cleaning to full bathroom remodels and water heater installations, making them a versatile choice for most plumbing needs.

Service Area: New York, NY (Headquartered in Long Island City)

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Drain Cleaning
Water Heater Installation
Leak Detection
Bathroom Plumbing

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in New York

The New York City plumbing market is characterized by its unique challenges, primarily due to the city's aging infrastructure. Many buildings are over 50-100 years old, leading to frequent issues with cast iron pipes, lead water service lines, and clay sewer pipes. Local plumbing codes are stringent and complex, requiring highly specialized knowledge. Emergency services are in high demand due to the high density of residential and commercial properties. Common issues include clogged drains in high-rises, water main breaks, and sewer line backups. Reputable providers must be licensed by the NYC Department of Buildings and have extensive experience navigating city agencies for permits and inspections.

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 New York regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in New York

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

1Why are plumbing service calls in NYC so expensive, and what is a typical cost range?

Costs are higher due to NYC's high business overhead, insurance requirements, and travel/parking logistics for technicians. For common services, expect a diagnostic fee of $150-$300, with hourly labor rates between $200-$450. Major repairs like sewer line or full bathroom repipes can cost several thousand dollars, influenced by your building's age and accessibility.

2How do NYC's cold winters specifically affect my plumbing, and what preventative maintenance should I do?

NYC's freeze-thaw cycles can cause pipes in unheated spaces (like exterior walls in pre-war buildings) to burst. Before winter, insulate exposed pipes, disconnect garden hoses, and know the location of your main water shut-off valve. For buildings with boilers, scheduling a pre-season inspection is crucial to avoid no-heat emergencies during a cold snap.

3What should I look for when choosing a plumber in New York City to ensure they are reputable and compliant?

Always verify the plumber holds a valid NYC Master Plumber license, which is required by law and ensures they know local codes. Choose a company that is fully insured and has strong reviews specific to your borough or building type (e.g., co-op, brownstone). Be wary of those who cannot provide a license number or a detailed, written estimate.

4My building is very old. Are there special considerations for plumbing repairs in historic NYC homes?

Absolutely. Many older buildings have original galvanized steel or cast-iron pipes that are prone to corrosion and scale buildup, affecting water pressure and quality. Repairs often require specialized knowledge and parts. Furthermore, work in landmark districts may require approvals, so choose a plumber experienced with historic NYC properties to navigate these challenges.

5What are the most common plumbing emergencies you see in NYC apartments and houses, and how can I avoid them?

The top emergencies are clogged drains from grease/food waste, sewer line backups (especially in spring with root intrusion), and failing water heaters. To avoid them, never pour grease down drains, consider annual drain cleaning if you have an old sewer line, and replace water heaters proactively after 10-12 years, as NYC's hard water accelerates sediment buildup.