Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Oakes, North Dakota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally-owned and operated full-service plumbing and HVAC company known for its reliable and prompt service. They are a primary go-to provider for Oakes residents for both scheduled maintenance and emergency calls.
A highly-rated family-owned plumbing business based in Ellendale, serving a wide radius that includes Oakes. They are praised for their professionalism, quality workmanship, and expertise in both residential and commercial projects.
A larger, well-established regional plumbing contractor based in Jamestown, known for handling a wide range of complex plumbing issues. They offer comprehensive services from simple leak repairs to full system installations and are a trusted name for customers who prefer a company with extensive resources.
** The plumbing market in Oakes, ND, is characteristic of a small, rural community. The local competition is limited, with one or two primary local contractors like Oakes Plumbing & Heating serving the immediate area. For more specialized or large-scale projects, residents and businesses often rely on reputable contractors from nearby cities such as Ellendale (~20 miles), Aberdeen (~50 miles), or Jamestown (~50 miles). This creates a market where service availability is good, but for emergency or immediate needs, the local provider is the first choice. The average quality of service is high, as these are established, family-owned businesses that rely on community reputation. Pricing is generally competitive and reflective of the regional market, with emergency and after-hours services commanding a premium. Customers value responsiveness, honesty, and long-term relationships in this market.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Oakes regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Oakes, North Dakota.
Oakes experiences a deep frost line, typically 5 to 6 feet, which means unprotected water lines can freeze and burst during our harsh winters. A qualified local plumber should have specific expertise in proper pipe insulation, installing frost-free hydrants, and performing winterizations. They will also be familiar with the best practices for basement and crawl space insulation to prevent costly freeze-ups common in our region.
The most pressing seasonal issues are fall pipe freezing and spring thaw-related problems, such as sump pump failures or sewer line backups from saturated ground. The absolute best time to schedule preventative maintenance is in late summer or early fall. This allows a plumber to winterize your exterior plumbing, inspect your sump pump, and address any issues before the freezing temperatures hit, avoiding emergency call-out fees during peak season.
Yes, in North Dakota, all plumbing work must comply with the state-adopted plumbing code (based on the International Plumbing Code) and requires a permit for most projects beyond simple repairs. A reputable Oakes plumber will handle the permit process with the city. Furthermore, if you have a private well and septic system—common in the area—there are specific state and county health department regulations governing their installation and repair that your plumber must follow.
Pricing can vary, but for common services, expect: $150-$350 for a drain cleaning/toilet unclogging, $300-$600 for a water heater repair or replacement part labor, and $1,500-$4,500+ for a full water heater replacement (unit cost varies). Major projects like repiping or septic work are highly variable. Always get a detailed, written estimate. Local travel distances can slightly affect costs compared to larger cities, but you save on large metro-area trip charges.
Prioritize plumbers licensed, bonded, and insured in North Dakota. Ask for local references in Oakes or nearby towns like Ellendale or LaMoure. Specifically ask about their experience with well systems, septic systems, and freeze protection. A trustworthy plumber will provide clear, upfront pricing (hourly or project-based), warranties on workmanship, and will be willing to explain the necessary permits for your job. Checking with neighbors for recommendations is also very effective in our community.