The Best Plumbing Contractors in Portsmouth, OH

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

#1

A-1 Sewer Service

4.8
(180 reviews)
Verified

A family-owned and operated business with a stellar reputation for honesty, reliability, and expertise. They are a top-tier provider for both residential and commercial clients, known for their prompt emergency response and advanced drain and sewer solutions, including video camera inspections.

26 Center St, Portsmouth, OH 45662

Specialties & Features

Drain cleaning and sewer services
Emergency plumbing repairs
Pipe installation and replacement

Business Information

Years in Business:25 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

S & M Plumbing

4.7
(90 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated local contractor known for personalized service and quality workmanship. They handle a wide array of plumbing needs, from minor repairs and fixture installations to more complex water heater and repiping projects, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction.

3918 Gallia St, New Boston, OH 45662 (Serves Portsmouth)

Specialties & Features

Water heater installation and repair
Bathroom and kitchen plumbing
Leak detection and repair

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Dan's Plumbing Repair

4.6
(70 reviews)
Verified

A reliable and trusted local plumber praised for being fair-priced, thorough, and communicative. Dan's Plumbing specializes in residential service and repair, making them a go-to for homeowners for everything from leaky faucets and clogged drains to water heater issues.

Serves Portsmouth, OH and surrounding areas.

Specialties & Features

Residential plumbing services
Leak detection and repair
Drain cleaning

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in Portsmouth

** The plumbing market in Portsmouth, Ohio, is characterized by a mix of long-established, family-owned businesses and smaller, highly-specialized independent contractors. The level of competition is moderate, with a handful of dominant, well-regarded companies handling the majority of the market share, particularly for larger jobs and commercial contracts. The average quality of service is high, as these businesses rely heavily on local reputation and word-of-mouth referrals in a close-knit community. Typical pricing is generally in line with regional averages for Southern Ohio. For standard service calls (e.g., drain cleaning, faucet repair), homeowners can expect rates in the range of $75-$150 per hour, plus parts. Emergency and after-hours services command a premium. Larger projects like water heater installation typically range from $800 to $2,500+, and comprehensive sewer line replacement can be a significant investment of $3,000 to $10,000+, depending on the scope. The most successful providers differentiate themselves through rapid emergency response times, transparent pricing, and a commitment to long-term customer relationships.

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 Portsmouth regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in Portsmouth

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Portsmouth, Ohio.

1What are typical plumbing service costs in Portsmouth, and why might they vary?

In Portsmouth, typical service call fees range from $75 to $150, with hourly labor rates between $65 and $120. Costs vary based on the job's complexity, the age of your home's plumbing (many Portsmouth homes have older galvanized pipes), and the time of year, as emergency winter calls for frozen pipes often carry premium rates. Always request a detailed, written estimate before work begins to avoid surprises.

2How does Portsmouth's climate and Ohio River proximity affect my plumbing?

Portsmouth's cold winters make frozen pipes a common seasonal concern, especially in crawl spaces and uninsulated exterior walls. Furthermore, the area's clay-rich soil and proximity to the Ohio River can lead to shifting foundations, which may stress and crack sewer lines. We recommend insulating exposed pipes in the fall and being vigilant for slow drains, which can indicate a compromised sewer line.

3Are there local regulations for plumbing work I should know about as a homeowner?

Yes, all plumbing work in Portsmouth must comply with the Ohio Plumbing Code (based on the International Plumbing Code) and may require permits from the Scioto County or City of Portsmouth Building Department. This is especially important for major work like water heater replacements, sewer line repairs, or bathroom remodels. A reputable local plumber will handle permitting and ensure inspections are passed.

4What should I look for when choosing a plumber in Portsmouth, OH?

Prioritize plumbers who are licensed, insured, and have a strong local reputation. Look for providers familiar with the common issues in Portsmouth's older housing stock, such as dealing with cast iron or galvanized piping. Check for membership in local business associations and read verified reviews to gauge their reliability and customer service, especially for emergency response times.

5My drains are slow—is this likely a city sewer issue or a problem with my home's pipes?

In Portsmouth, it's often a private property issue. The city maintains the main sewer lines, but homeowners are responsible for the lateral line from the house to the street. Given the age of many local systems, tree root intrusion or collapse of old clay or cast iron pipes is common. A local plumber can perform a camera inspection to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the blockage.