Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Columbia, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, family-owned and operated business known for its prompt, professional, and clean service. They emphasize customer education and transparent, upfront pricing. They offer 24/7 emergency services and are known for their expertise in both residential and commercial plumbing.
Blue Dot Services is a well-established, local company providing plumbing, electrical, and HVAC services. They are praised for their professional technicians, thorough diagnostics, and excellent customer service. They offer membership plans for preventative maintenance and prioritize same-day service for many calls.
Plumb Doctor is a reputable contractor known for handling a wide range of plumbing issues, from simple repairs to complex installations. They serve both residential and commercial clients and are frequently noted for their honesty, fair pricing, and ability to solve difficult problems that other plumbers couldn't fix.
** The plumbing market in Columbia, South Carolina, is competitive with a mix of long-standing local family businesses and larger regional companies that also offer HVAC and electrical services. The overall quality of service is high, with several providers consistently earning 4.5+ star ratings across multiple review platforms. Customers in the area appear to value transparency, prompt emergency response, and technical expertise. Competition is strong, which generally benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for standard service calls (not including parts or major repairs) in the Columbia area ranges from $75 to $150 for the initial diagnostic or trip fee. Emergency and after-hours rates are significantly higher. The market shows a clear demand for reliable, 24/7 emergency services, particularly for issues like burst pipes, severe drain backups, and water heater failures, which are common concerns for homeowners in the region.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Columbia regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Columbia, South Carolina.
Due to our local climate, two seasonal issues are prevalent. In summer, high groundwater levels and sudden heavy rains can lead to basement or crawl space flooding and sump pump failures. In winter, while generally mild, occasional hard freezes can cause pipes in uninsulated crawl spaces or exterior walls to burst, making pipe insulation a critical local preventative measure.
Regional labor rates and material costs influence pricing. For example, repairing a leaky faucet typically ranges from $150-$300, unclogging a main sewer line can cost $350-$700, and replacing a water heater (including the unit) often falls between $1,200-$2,500. Always get a detailed, written estimate that includes all parts, labor, and any potential City of Columbia permit fees before work begins.
First, verify they are licensed by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SC LLR). Second, choose a plumber familiar with local building codes and the specific challenges of our older neighborhoods like Shandon or Earlewood, which may have galvanized pipes or clay sewer lines. Finally, check for strong local reviews and proof of insurance.
A sudden spike is often due to a hidden leak, such as a running toilet, a leak under the slab foundation common in our soil, or a dripping irrigation system. First, check your toilet flappers and visible fixtures. If the issue isn't obvious, contact a licensed plumber for a leak detection service. You can also contact Columbia Water to rule out a meter error or review your usage history.
Yes. The City of Columbia requires permits for most major work, like replacing a water heater or re-piping a house. Reputable plumbers will pull these permits, which ensure the work is inspected for safety and code compliance. This is especially important for compliance with local cross-connection control ordinances that protect our public water supply. Always ask your plumber if a permit is needed for your job.