Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Portsmouth, Virginia. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, full-service plumbing company serving Portsmouth and the Hampton Roads area. They specialize in emergency repairs, drain cleaning, and sewer services with rapid response times. Known for their expertise with older homes common in Portsmouth.
A trusted local family-owned plumbing business with deep roots in the Portsmouth community. They offer comprehensive residential and commercial services with a focus on quality workmanship and customer service. Experienced with local codes and historic home plumbing systems.
A well-established plumbing contractor providing 24/7 emergency service to Portsmouth and the surrounding Tidewater area. They are known for their skilled technicians, professional leak detection services, and handling complex pipe replacement projects.
Portsmouth, Virginia, presents a unique plumbing market due to its many historic homes and its coastal location. Older properties often have outdated galvanized steel or cast iron pipes that are prone to corrosion and failure. The high water table and occasional flooding in low-lying areas can exacerbate sewer and drain issues. Local plumbing contractors must be well-versed in dealing with these specific challenges, including navigating the city's older infrastructure and adhering to local codes designed for historic preservation. Emergency services are in high demand due to the age of many plumbing systems.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Portsmouth regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Portsmouth, Virginia.
Due to our humid, subtropical climate and older housing stock, common issues include pipe corrosion from hard water, slow drains from sediment buildup, and sewer line problems from invasive tree roots. Seasonally, winter freezes (though brief) can cause pipe bursts if not insulated, while summer humidity exacerbates drain clogs and can stress water heaters working harder.
Always verify a plumber holds a valid Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) license, which is legally required for work over $1,000. For reliability, choose a local, established company familiar with Portsmouth's specific infrastructure, such as older galvanized pipes in historic homes, and check for positive reviews on local community pages.
Costs vary but local market rates for a standard service call start around $80-$120. Common repairs like fixing a leaky faucet range from $150-$300, while water heater replacement typically costs $1,200-$2,500, influenced by Portsmouth's high humidity requiring corrosion-resistant models. Always request a detailed, written estimate before work begins.
Yes. Portsmouth follows the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC). Homeowners can perform their own plumbing only in their primary, single-family residence; any work in multi-family dwellings or rental properties requires a licensed professional. Major work, like moving pipes or installing new fixtures, often requires a permit from the Portsmouth Department of Permits and Inspections.
Low pressure is common, often due to aging galvanized steel pipes in older Portsmouth homes that corrode and restrict flow internally. It can also stem from the city's water main scale or a faulty pressure regulator. We recommend a professional diagnosis, as solutions range from cleaning aerators to full pipe replacement with more durable materials like copper or PEX.