Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, franchise plumbing service known for its punctuality and professional "on-time" guarantee. They offer a comprehensive range of residential and commercial services and emphasize their emergency response capabilities.
Part of the national Mr. Rooter franchise, this provider specializes in solving complex drain and sewer problems. They are well-regarded for their professional diagnostics, including video camera inspections, and their upfront, flat-rate pricing.
A well-established local, independent plumbing contractor known for personalized service and deep roots in the community. They handle everything from minor repairs to major installations for both homes and businesses.
** The plumbing market serving Saint Matthews, SC is characterized by a reliance on established contractors from the larger nearby hub of Orangeburg, located approximately 15-20 minutes away. As a smaller town, Saint Matthews itself has limited dedicated plumbing companies, creating a service area that is competitively served by these Orangeburg-based providers. The competition is moderate, with a focus on reputation and reliability rather than price alone. The leading providers are either established local independents or nationally-backed franchises, both of which bring a high level of professional licensing, insurance, and standardized training. Typical pricing in the area is competitive with regional averages. Customers can expect standard service call fees, with hourly labor rates for repairs and project-based quotes for installations (e.g., water heater replacement) or major repairs. The presence of franchises often means more transparent, upfront pricing models, while local independents may compete on personalized service and potentially lower overhead. For emergency services, especially after hours, premium rates are standard across all top-tier providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Saint Matthews regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Saint Matthews, South Carolina.
The humid subtropical climate and older housing stock in Saint Matthews lead to frequent issues like pipe corrosion and root intrusion in sewer lines from local trees like live oaks and pines. Seasonally, winter freezes (though brief) can cause pipes in uninsulated crawl spaces to burst, while summer droughts can shift soil and stress underground pipes. We also see increased water heater strain from hard water common in our area.
Always choose a plumber licensed by the South Carolina Contractor's Licensing Board, which requires proof of experience and passing an exam. For Saint Matthews specifically, also verify they carry proper insurance and are familiar with local codes, which can affect repairs in historic homes or properties near the Lake Marion watershed. Check for membership in local chambers or positive reviews from neighbors in Calhoun County.
Costs in Saint Matthews are generally aligned with regional South Carolina averages but can be lower than major metros like Columbia. A standard 50-gallon water heater replacement typically runs $1,100-$1,800, including installation and disposal. Drain cleaning for a main line can range from $150-$400, with potential for higher costs if tree roots, prevalent here, have caused significant blockage requiring specialized jetting.
While Saint Matthews follows South Carolina state plumbing codes, there are no unique town ordinances beyond standard fixture requirements. However, homeowners can benefit from South Carolina's sales tax exemption on Energy Star certified water heaters and certain efficient appliances. Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures is also wise given occasional summer water advisories and can reduce strain on private wells common in the surrounding rural areas.
Most reputable local plumbers offer 24/7 emergency service with response times often within 2 hours for critical issues. True emergencies include major sewage backups, burst pipes (especially during a freeze warning), and complete loss of water. For non-emergencies like a slow drain, scheduling may take 1-2 days. It's advisable to know your main water shut-off valve location, as response can be slightly longer for homes in outlying rural parts of the county.