Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Burlington, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A full-service, family-owned plumbing and heating contractor serving Burlington and Chittenden County for decades. They are known for their rapid response emergency service and expertise in handling the unique challenges of Vermont's older homes, including pipe freezing prevention and repair.
A highly-rated, local provider specializing in both residential and commercial plumbing. They are praised for their professional technicians, clear communication, and expertise in bathroom and kitchen remodels, as well as complex sewer line projects. They offer upfront pricing and a strong warranty on their work.
A reliable and efficient plumbing service known for its excellent customer service and quick response times. They focus on a wide range of services from minor faucet repairs and drain cleaning to major water heater installations and emergency pipe bursts, serving the immediate Burlington area.
The plumbing market in Burlington, VT, is characterized by a mix of historic colonial and Victorian homes and modern constructions. Common issues include frozen and burst pipes during the harsh winters, aging clay sewer lines in older neighborhoods, and the need for preventative maintenance on heating systems. Local providers are well-versed in Vermont's specific building codes and the challenges of working on structures with basements prone to moisture and foundations that shift with the freeze-thaw cycles. The market is competitive with a focus on 24/7 emergency readiness due to the climate.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Burlington regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Burlington, Vermont.
Burlington's harsh winters make frozen and burst pipes a top concern, especially in older homes with poor insulation. Look for a plumber who offers 24/7 emergency winter services and specializes in pipe thawing, insulation, and repairs specific to freeze damage. Proactively, a local plumber can perform a "winterization" check on your exterior faucets (hose bibs), crawl spaces, and basement to prevent costly emergencies.
Costs vary but local service-call fees typically range from $100-$200, with hourly labor rates between $120-$180. For specific jobs, unclogging a drain may cost $150-$350, while installing a new water heater (including the unit) often ranges from $1,800-$3,500. Vermont's higher cost of living and the specialized knowledge required for older home systems in Burlington can influence these prices toward the higher end of national averages.
Yes, Vermont has strict plumbing codes, and in Burlington, most significant work requires a permit from the Department of Permitting and Inspections. This is especially important for projects involving water heaters, sewer lines, or bathroom additions. A reputable local plumber will be fully licensed, insured, and familiar with obtaining these permits, ensuring your project meets all state and city codes for safety and compliance.
Prioritize companies that are locally owned, licensed by the State of Vermont, and have extensive experience with Burlington's housing stock, including historic homes with galvanized steel or lead service lines. Check for positive reviews regarding responsiveness, especially in winter, and confirm they are insured. A trustworthy plumber will provide clear, upfront estimates and explain how Vermont's seasonal challenges impact the work.
In Burlington, homeowners are responsible for the sewer lateral (the pipe from your house to the city main) and any interior drains. Backups are often due to root intrusion, pipe collapse, or grease blockages in this private lateral, especially in older neighborhoods with mature trees. The City of Burlington Public Works Department is only responsible for blockages in the main public sewer line. A local plumber can perform a camera inspection to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the blockage.