The Best Plumbing Contractors in Philadelphia, PA

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

#1

John Cipollone Inc.

4.8
(325 reviews)
Verified

A family-owned and operated plumbing and HVAC company serving Philadelphia since 1952. They are highly regarded for their expertise in handling both routine plumbing and complex emergencies, particularly in the city's older homes with unique plumbing challenges. They offer 24/7 emergency service and are known for their skilled technicians and high-quality workmanship.

514 Thomas Ave, Haverford, PA 19041

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Water Heater Specialists
Gas Line Repair
Sewer and Drain Cleaning
Whole-House Repiping

Business Information

Years in Business:72 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

William Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling

4.7
(412 reviews)
Verified

A premier provider of plumbing services in the Philadelphia area with a strong focus on customer service and technical expertise. They handle a wide range of services from minor faucet repairs to major commercial plumbing installations. Their team is well-versed in Philadelphia's plumbing codes and is known for quick response times for emergency calls.

1619 John F Kennedy Blvd #1240, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Bathroom Remodeling Plumbing
Tankless Water Heaters
Drain and Sewer Services
Leak Detection

Business Information

Years in Business:35 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Drain Rescue Plumbers

4.6
(288 reviews)
Verified

Specializes in solving tough drain, sewer, and water heater problems for both residential and commercial customers in Philadelphia. They are particularly noted for their advanced drain cleaning techniques, including hydro-jetting, and camera inspections to accurately diagnose sewer line issues. They offer free estimates on most services.

8001 Castor Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19152

Specialties & Features

Drain and Sewer Cleaning
Water Heater Installation
Sewer Camera Inspections
Emergency Plumbing
Commercial Plumbing

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Plumbing Contractors in Philadelphia

The Philadelphia plumbing market is heavily influenced by the city's vast inventory of historic and aging homes, which often have outdated galvanized steel pipes, lead service lines, and complex drain systems. Common issues include frequent drain clogs, sewer line problems from invasive tree roots, and leaks in old piping. Local plumbing codes are strict, especially concerning work on historic properties, requiring contractors with specific local experience and knowledge. The market is competitive with many providers, but the top-tier companies distinguish themselves with 24/7 emergency availability, expertise in dealing with old infrastructure, and strong reputations built over decades.

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 Philadelphia regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing in Philadelphia

Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

1How much should I expect to pay for common plumbing repairs in Philadelphia?

Costs vary, but for context, a standard water heater replacement in Philly typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500, while fixing a leaky pipe under a sink might cost $150-$350. Philadelphia's older housing stock can increase costs if repairs involve outdated materials like galvanized steel or lead pipes, which require special handling. Always request a detailed, written estimate that includes labor, parts, and any potential permit fees before work begins.

2Why is my basement drain backing up, and is this a common issue in Philadelphia homes?

Basement drain backups are extremely common in Philadelphia due to the city's combined sewer system and many homes having 100-year-old clay sewer laterals. During heavy rainfall, the public system can become overloaded, causing water to back up into residential basements. Proactively installing a backwater valve is a highly recommended local solution to prevent this costly and unsanitary problem.

3What should I look for when choosing a plumber in Philadelphia?

Always verify the plumber holds a valid Philadelphia-issued plumbing license, which is required by law and ensures they understand local codes. Choose a company experienced with Philly's historic rowhomes, as they often have unique plumbing layouts and materials. Check for positive reviews on local platforms and confirm they are fully insured, protecting you from liability for any accidents on your property.

4How do Philadelphia's cold winters affect my plumbing, and what specific preventative steps should I take?

Philadelphia's freezing temperatures can cause pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls to burst. Before winter, you must disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and insulate exposed pipes, especially in your basement. During a deep freeze, letting a faucet drip and keeping cabinet doors open can help, but addressing drafty areas in your home's insulation is a key long-term fix.

5My water pressure seems low. Could this be related to Philadelphia's water infrastructure?

Possibly. While the issue could be a home-specific problem like a faulty pressure regulator or clogged aerator, Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) work on aging mains in your neighborhood can also cause temporary pressure changes. First, check if neighbors are experiencing the same issue. If it's isolated to your home, a licensed plumber can diagnose internal causes, which in older homes are often due to corroded galvanized steel pipes that need replacement.