We asked a plumber in Melbourne FL. some questions about plumbing renovations in the home. Here is what he had to say.
Q: What is the average cost for a plumbing renovation?
A: That number can range wildly depending on the home size and other circumstances. But for a mid-sized home the averages are between $5,000 – $12,000. If the home is large, the price can exceed $20,000.
Q: What Do Plumbers Charge per Hour for Miscellaneous Work?
A: The charge per hour is between $50-$200. This all depends on the experience of the plumber and the job requirements. But a good rule of thumb is to assume it will be $100 per hour.
Q: Are all Plumbers Licensed?
A: Your plumber should be licensed and will prominently display their license number. There is a plethora of “handy men” doing plumbing work though. They are not usually licensed to take on some of these jobs but that doesn’t stop them. Hire at your own risk.
Q: Do Plumbers Charge More in Larger Cities?
A: The answer is that they typically charge more there yes. This is because the cost of living is higher. They may also pay higher costs for licensing, unions and other overhead. Typically, a plumber in a large city will charge 50% more than one in a smaller town.
Q: What are the Costs of New Construction vs. Repiping?
A: Installing plumbing in new construction averages $4.50 to $5.90 per square foot, or $8,000 to $12,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home with 2-3 bathrooms. Repiping an existing home is typically cheaper, costing $0.40 to $2.00 per linear foot, or $3,000 to $16,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home, due to additional labor for accessing pipes through walls or floors. House renovation prices can vary wildly. Always get 2 or more quotes.
Q: Any Last Words of Advice for the Average Consumer?
A: Shop around. Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Also, visit their website. See if their license number is visible. Go to Google reviews and see what the overall reputation is for the business. You should be able to get a general feel for the company after just 5 minutes of research. It can end up saving you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Conclusion
Plumbing is a very complicated field. Plumbers will often study and apprentice for a decade before they are the lead plumber for any major job. Licensing ensures they passed tests and that they know what they are talking about. Making sure they are insured and that you are insured in case there is a disaster is paramount. You don’t want to be left footing the bill for a plumbing problem that is turned into a disaster by a bad plumber.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If your plumber is annoyed with you or short-tempered, it is probably a good idea to seek help elsewhere. After all, you are the paying customer, and you need to protect your interests. Stay vigilant and make sure your plumber knows your absolute maximum budget.