Compare the highest-rated plumbing professionals in Shell, Wyoming. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A family-owned and operated business based in nearby Greybull, offering comprehensive residential and commercial plumbing, heating, and AC services. They are known for their rapid response times for emergencies and are a trusted local contractor in the basin.
A well-established, full-service plumbing contractor based in Cody, serving the entire Bighorn Basin with a strong reputation for quality workmanship and professional service. They handle everything from small drain cleanings to major commercial projects.
This provider offers a broad range of plumbing and HVAC services for both homes and businesses. They are praised in customer reviews for being knowledgeable, honest, and effective at solving complex plumbing issues.
** The plumbing market serving Shell, Wyoming, is characteristic of a rural, sparsely populated region. There is no direct, in-town competition, as residents and local businesses rely on contractors from neighboring towns like Greybull (10 miles away) and the larger hub of Cody (40 miles away). The competition level is moderate among the handful of established regional providers. Service quality is generally high, as these businesses rely heavily on local reputation and word-of-mouth in a tight-knit community. Typical pricing reflects the rural nature of the service area. Customers should expect to pay a significant trip charge or mileage fee to cover the service provider's travel time and fuel costs to reach Shell. Labor and part rates are generally competitive with national averages, but the total cost for smaller jobs can be higher due to the mandatory travel surcharge. Emergency and after-hours services will also command a premium. For major projects, it is common to get quotes from the providers in both Greybull and Cody to compare total cost, including travel.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Shell regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about plumbing services in Shell, Wyoming.
Shell's harsh winters and very hard water from the Bighorn River aquifer create two major concerns. Freezing pipes are a critical risk, so insulating pipes in unheated spaces like crawl spaces is essential before winter. The high mineral content in the water also leads to scale buildup in water heaters and fixtures, making regular descaling and considering a water softener important preventative measures.
Pricing in Shell can be higher than in larger cities due to travel distances for parts and fewer local suppliers. A standard service call fee typically ranges from $100-$200, with emergency or after-hours calls costing more. For larger projects like water heater replacement, expect costs between $1,200-$2,500, influenced by the unit type and the complexity of installation in your specific home.
Yes, plumbing work in Shell and Big Horn County must comply with the Wyoming Uniform Plumbing Code. For any significant work like moving plumbing lines, adding a bathroom, or installing a new water heater, a permit from the Big Horn County Building Department is usually required. A reputable local plumber will handle this process, ensuring the work passes necessary inspections.
Prioritize plumbers licensed by the State of Wyoming and who carry full insurance, especially for liability given the rural setting. Look for established local companies familiar with Shell's well systems, septic tanks, and freeze-protection strategies. Strong local references and clear communication about service areas and response times are crucial due to the remote location.
Given Shell's older housing stock and the prevalence of mature trees, slow drains are often due to accumulated grease or invasive tree roots in the exterior sewer line. For interior clogs, try a plunger or a drain snake, but avoid chemical drain cleaners as they can damage older pipes. For recurring issues, especially in main drains, a professional camera inspection is recommended to check for root intrusion, which is very common here.