Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A trusted, locally-owned plumbing company serving Chapel Hill for over 30 years. They specialize in both residential and commercial plumbing, offering 24/7 emergency response. Known for their expertise in water heater services, repiping, and trenchless sewer repair.
A highly-rated, family-operated plumbing service known for prompt and professional work. They excel in kitchen and bathroom plumbing renovations, leak detection, and drain cleaning. They offer a strong warranty on all work and use high-quality materials.
A reliable provider offering comprehensive plumbing services for homes and businesses in the Triangle area. They are particularly noted for their fast emergency response times and skilled handling of complex sewer line and gas line projects.
The plumbing market in Chapel Hill is characterized by a mix of historic homes, modern developments, and a large university campus, leading to diverse needs from emergency repairs in older properties with aging pipes to new fixture installations. Local plumbers must be well-versed in a range of systems and the specific local codes. Common issues include tree root intrusion in sewer lines due to the heavily wooded areas, repairs on older galvanized steel pipes, and water heater services for both student housing and single-family homes. The presence of UNC also creates a steady demand for commercial plumbing services.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Chapel Hill regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
For standard service calls in Chapel Hill, you can expect an hourly rate between $75-$150, plus parts. Costs vary based on the plumber's licensing level (like a "Class I" or "II" journeyman license required in NC), the job's complexity, and the time of year. Emergency calls, especially during our occasional winter freezes when pipes burst, often carry premium rates. Always request a detailed, written estimate before work begins.
The heavy, expansive clay soil common in Chapel Hill can shift and put stress on underground pipes, leading to cracks and misalignments. Combined with our abundant tree roots from oaks and pines, this creates a high risk for sewer line intrusions and blockages. Homeowners should be proactive about slow drains and consider periodic sewer line camera inspections, especially in older neighborhoods like Colony Woods or Pine Knoll.
Yes. All plumbing work in Chapel Hill must be permitted and inspected by the Town's Inspections Department, with the exception of minor repairs like faucet replacements. This is crucial for ensuring compliance with the North Carolina State Plumbing Code. Furthermore, if you live in a historic district like Greenwood, there may be additional exterior preservation guidelines affecting visible pipe work.
Before winter, insulating exposed pipes in crawl spaces is critical, as we can experience sudden hard freezes. In spring and summer, check for increased water pressure from municipal supply changes and consider installing a pressure regulator to protect appliances. Also, the high pollen count can clog outdoor faucet aerators and sprinkler heads, requiring cleaning.
Always choose a plumber licensed by the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. Verify they carry both general liability and workers' compensation insurance. For local reliability, check reviews and ask neighbors for referrals, as a company familiar with Chapel Hill's specific infrastructure and water quality will be more efficient. Be wary of door-to-door solicitors after major storms.