Emergency Plumbing in London, ON: How to Choose the Right Contractor and What to Expect During Your Repair Call

When a plumbing emergency strikes in London, Ontario, your best outcome depends on calling a licensed, insured 24-hour plumber who offers upfront pricing, fast response times under 60 minutes, and expertise in urgent repairs like burst pipes, sewage backups, and water heater failures.
Key Takeaways
24/7 availability matters — True emergency plumbers in London, ON operate around the clock, including weekends and holidays, so you’re never left waiting during a crisis.
Licensing and insurance protect you — Always verify your plumber holds a valid Ontario license and carries liability insurance before any work begins.
Response time is critical — For burst pipes or flooding, every minute counts; reputable emergency plumbers typically arrive within 30–60 minutes.
Upfront pricing prevents surprises — The best emergency plumbing contractors provide clear quotes before starting repairs, even for after-hours calls.
Not every issue is a true emergency — Understanding what qualifies as urgent (burst pipes, sewage backup, no water) versus what can wait saves you money on premium call-out fees.
By the Numbers: Emergency Plumbing in Ontario
- The average cost to unclog a drain in Ontario ranges from $150–$350,$350 to $950, while emergency after-hours calls can add $100–$200 to standard rates.
- Burst pipes cause an average of $5,000–$70,000 in water damage when not addressed within the first hour (Insurance Bureau of Canada).
- Water damage represents a growing concern for Canadian homeowners, with 93% of incidents preventable through prompt professional intervention.
- Licensed plumbers in Ontario typically charge $85–$150 per hour, with emergency rates reaching $150–$250 per hour after hours.
- The average emergency plumber response time in urban Ontario centres like London is 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Hire the Best Emergency Plumber for Urgent Leaks and Repairs Near You
A plumbing emergency won’t wait for business hours. Your basement floods at 2 AM. Sewage backs up on Thanksgiving weekend. These crises demand immediate help from a reliable emergency plumber in London, Ontario.
Burst pipes spray water throughout your home. Sewage creates health hazards in living spaces. Gas leaks threaten your family’s safety. Water heaters rupture and flood entire floors. Each situation requires immediate professional attention—not just to stop the damage, but to prevent thousands of dollars in repairs.
Smart homeowners save a trusted plumber’s contact information before disaster strikes. Those precious minutes you save by having the number ready can mean the difference between a minor repair bill and a catastrophic insurance claim.
Need immediate help? Contact Jumbo Plumbing’s emergency team now for 24/7 service in London, ON.
Who Is the Best Emergency Plumber in London, Ontario?
The “best” emergency plumber isn’t always the one with the flashiest advertising or lowest advertised rate. You need someone who shows up fast, fixes the problem right, and doesn’t surprise you with the bill.
Look for valid Ontario licensing first. Add comprehensive liability insurance. Check for consistently fast response times—not just promises, but verified customer experiences. Read recent reviews that mention after-hours service specifically. Verify they offer transparent pricing before work begins.
When water actively damages your home, reliability matters more than saving fifty dollars on the service call.
Is the Plumber Licensed and Insured?
Ontario law requires plumbers to hold valid licenses issued by the Ontario College of Trades. This isn’t bureaucratic red tape—it confirms your plumber completed proper training, passed competency examinations, and understands current building codes.
Unlicensed contractors put you at serious risk. Your homeowner’s insurance may refuse to cover damage they cause. If they get injured on your property, you face personal liability. Their work won’t meet Ontario Building Code requirements, which means you’ll pay twice—once for the improper work, again to fix it properly.
Licensed plumbers carry liability insurance. This coverage handles accidental property damage during repairs. You’re protected if equipment malfunctions or complications arise. Always ask to see the license number and current insurance proof before authorizing any work.
Do Plumbers Offer Upfront Pricing?
Reputable emergency plumbers in London Ontario, provide clear quotes before starting work—even at 3 AM. This transparency protects you from billing surprises and lets you make informed decisions about repairs.
A proper quote details the specific work needed, parts and materials required, labor costs, and the total expected price. If complications arise during repairs, ethical plumbers explain the new issues and provide updated pricing before expanding the work scope.
Avoid plumbers who won’t discuss pricing until after completing repairs. Avoid vague estimates. Avoid pressure to authorize work before understanding costs. These practices signal trouble.
| Factor | Licensed Emergency Plumber | Unlicensed Handyman |
| Ontario License | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Liability Insurance | ✅ Included | ❌ Rarely |
| Upfront Pricing | ✅ Standard | ⚠️ Variable |
| 24/7 Availability | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Warranty on Work | ✅ Typically 1 year+ | ❌ None |
| Code Compliance | ✅ Guaranteed | ❌ Not assured |
Jumbo Plumbing is fully licensed and insured for all emergency repairs. View our plumbing services.
Book an Emergency Plumber for Same-Day Water Damage Repairs
Water damage doesn’t wait. A small leak today is warped flooring tomorrow, and mould within 48 hours. When you have active water intrusion, you need same-day emergency plumbing service—it’s not about convenience, it’s about protecting your home investment.
How Fast Should Help Arrive?
A professional emergency plumber typically arrives within 30–60 minutes of your call. Factors like severe winter storms or high call volume might affect the timing, but a reputable company tracks their team and will give you a realistic arrival window and updates. If a plumber consistently promises 20 minutes but takes two hours, find different service.
Can a Burst Pipe Wait?
Absolutely not. A burst pipe can spray litres of water into your home every single minute. Every minute you wait multiplies the damage exponentially.
Your First Priority: Locate and shut off your main water valve immediately. This is the single most important step you can take to save your home.
Your Second Priority: Call a 24-hour professional. Don’t attempt DIY repairs on pressurized lines—they rarely work and can make a bad situation worse.
Facing water damage right now? Jumbo Plumbing offers rapid response for burst pipes across London, Ontario. Call us immediately.
Find Licensed Emergency Plumbing Services in London, Ontario, Available 24/7
True 24/7 emergency plumbing service means something specific. A real person answers your call immediately—not an answering service that takes messages. Dispatchers send qualified technicians within minutes. Fully stocked service vehicles arrive ready to complete repairs on the spot. The same quality standards apply at 3 AM as at 3 PM.
Are There 24-Hour Plumbers Available Near Me?
Yes, several licensed plumbing companies in London, ON offer genuine 24-hour emergency service. These companies maintain on-call technicians around the clock. They stock multiple service vehicles with common replacement parts, specialized equipment, and diagnostic tools.
Verify they offer real emergency service rather than an after-hours answering service that schedules next-day callbacks. Read recent customer reviews focusing on after-hours experiences. Call the emergency line yourself to test response quality. A professional operation answers promptly with a knowledgeable person who can dispatch help immediately.
Are Emergency Plumbing Services Available on Weekends or Holidays?
Professional emergency plumbers work every day of the year. Christmas, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Victoria Day—plumbing emergencies don’t respect holidays, and neither do quality plumbers.
Some companies charge premium rates for holiday service calls, typically an additional $50–$150 above standard emergency rates. This premium compensates technicians for working holidays and ensures adequate staffing when most people want time off. Reputable companies disclose holiday pricing upfront.
What Is the Response Time for Emergencies?
Professional emergency plumbers typically respond within 30–60 minutes. “Response time” means the technician arrives at your property ready to assess and begin repairs—not when the dispatcher acknowledges your call.
Priority dispatch systems ensure critical emergencies receive the fastest response. A burst pipe flooding an occupied home gets priority over a dripping faucet. When you call, describe your situation accurately so dispatchers can prioritize appropriately.
What 24/7 Really Means
- Phone answered by a real person (not voicemail)
- Technicians dispatched within 15 minutes of call
- Arrival typically within 30–60 minutes in London
- Same rates quoted regardless of call time (at reputable companies)
Jumbo Plumbing’s emergency line is staffed 24/7, 365 days a year. Call us anytime.
Get Quotes from Certified Emergency Plumbers in London Ontario for Burst Pipes
Water actively damages your home while you make pricing decisions. Understanding emergency plumbing costs helps you act confidently in crisis moments.
Here’s how the quoting process typically works: The technician arrives and assesses your situation. They explain what repairs are necessary and why. They provide an upfront quote including parts, labor, and any applicable emergency fees. They obtain your authorization before beginning work. If complications arise during repairs, they explain new issues and provide updated pricing before proceeding.
How Much Does an Emergency Plumber Cost?
Emergency plumbing costs in London, Ontario, vary based on several factors: time of day, repair complexity, parts required, and damage extent.
At Jumbo Plumbing, we charge a $79 diagnostic fee to send a licensed plumber to assess your specific situation—this fee is waived for drain and hot water tank services. Every plumbing job is unique, and getting a customized quote ensures completely clear and accurate pricing for your emergency.
Our licensed plumbers diagnose the problem, then educate you on all viable options for the repair. We present multiple solutions with corresponding price points, allowing you to decide which option fits your needs and budget best. Once you’ve decided, we begin work immediately to get your day back on track.
Common emergency repair costs in London, ON:
Minor service calls range $200–$350 without materials for straightforward repairs that can be completed quickly.
Burst pipe repairs typically cost $450–$1,200 for emergency service, depending on pipe location, material, accessibility, and the length requiring replacement.
Emergency drain unblocking runs $350–$950 based on drain size, equipment used (standard augering vs. hydrojetting), and access point—whether it’s a clean-out or requires toilet removal.
Water heater repairs vary widely based on the issue, with emergency service ranging based on whether it’s a minor component replacement or major system failure.
Holiday and after-hours premiums can add up to $300 to standard rates. These premiums compensate technicians for working irregular schedules and ensure service vehicles stay fully stocked with parts and equipment for immediate response.
Whilst these premiums increase your immediate cost, they’re typically far less than the property damage that results from waiting until regular business hours.
Do Emergency Plumbers Charge Extra?
Yes, emergency plumbers charge premium rates for after-hours, weekend, and holiday service. At Jumbo Plumbing, holiday and emergency premiums can add up to $300 to standard rates, depending on timing and urgency.
After-hours premiums compensate technicians for working irregular schedules. They cover costs of maintaining on-call staff around the clock. They ensure service vehicles stay fully stocked with parts and equipment for immediate response.
Whilst these premiums increase your immediate cost, they’re typically far less than the property damage that results from waiting until regular business hours. A $300 premium is negligible compared to thousands in water damage restoration.
What Is a Minimum Call-Out Charge?
A minimum call-out charge is a base fee covering the plumber’s travel and initial assessment. In London, Ontario, minimum call-out charges typically range from $75–$200 depending on regular hours versus emergency after-hours service.
This minimum applies even if repairs take less than an hour or require minimal parts. It ensures plumbers can profitably respond to service calls without losing money on travel time. It maintains the economic viability of 24/7 emergency response capabilities.
Once repairs exceed the time or complexity covered by the minimum charge, additional labor gets billed at the agreed hourly rate or project price.
| Service | Cost Range | Notes |
| Diagnostic Fee | $79 | Waived for drains and hot water tanks |
| Minor Service Call | $200–$350 | Without materials |
| Drain Unblocking | $350–$950 | Depends on size, equipment, and access point |
| Hydrojetting | $1,200–$2,200 | For severe blockages and main lines |
| Burst Pipe Repair | $450–$1,200 | Based on size, accessibility, and length |
| Hot Water Tank Installation | $2,000–$3,800 | Depends on size, type (gas/electric), and accessibility |
| Toilet Repair | $250–$700 | Based on toilet style and repair complexity |
| Holiday/Emergency Premium | Up to $300 additional | For after-hours, weekends, and holidays |
Prices are estimates for London, ON and may vary based on complexity.
Get an upfront quote with no surprises. Request emergency service from Jumbo Plumbing.
Who to Trust for Rapid-Response Emergency Plumbing in London, Ontario
Finding a reliable emergency plumber means looking for speed and honesty.
The best companies cut the noise: they answer your call within seconds, dispatch a licensed tech right away, and aim to arrive in under an hour. Crucially, they believe in upfront pricing.
The Transparency Test:
A company that values your trust will always be clear about the bill. Look for:
- Verbal Estimates: They clearly explain the fee structure over the phone.
- Written Quotes: They provide a final, written quote before they even touch a wrench. No hidden charges or billing surprises after the work is done.
- Cost Justification: They can easily break down why emergency rates (which are higher—usually $150–$250 per hour after hours, compared to $85–$150 during the day) are necessary to keep a 24/7 service ready to save your home.
When you’re in a crisis, you need a professional who combines that rapid response with total transparency. That’s the only way to turn an emergency into a manageable repair with minimal stress.
When Should I Call an Emergency Plumber?
Not every plumbing problem qualifies as a true emergency. Understanding the difference saves you money on premium emergency call-out fees while ensuring you get help quickly when it matters.
What Is an Example of a Plumbing Emergency?
Burst or frozen pipes — Pressurized water lines that rupture spray water throughout your home at 2–4 gallons per minute. Frozen pipes that haven’t burst yet still require immediate attention to prevent rupture.
Sewage backup into the home — Raw sewage backing up through drains, toilets, or floor drains creates immediate health hazards. Sewage contains dangerous bacteria and pathogens that threaten your family’s health.
Complete loss of water — If your home suddenly has no water service and neighbors have water, you likely have a serious plumbing failure requiring immediate diagnosis and repair.
Gas line leaks — If you smell gas, evacuate immediately. Call your gas company’s emergency line first, then call a licensed plumber once the gas company secures the leak. Never attempt DIY gas line repairs.
Flooding from any source — Active flooding requires immediate response to minimize property damage, regardless of the source.
Water heater failure with leaking — A water heater actively leaking or spraying water can flood your home with 40–80 gallons of hot water, causing severe damage to flooring, walls, and possessions.
Is a Small Leak an Emergency?
A small leak isn’t automatically an emergency, but context determines urgency. A dripping faucet or slow leak under a sink that you’ve contained with a bucket can typically wait for regular business hours.
However, call an emergency plumber immediately if: the leak sits near electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring; it’s rapidly growing or spreading despite your containment efforts; it’s causing visible water damage to walls, ceilings, or floors; you cannot access or control it. What starts as a small visible leak often indicates larger hidden problems within your walls or beneath flooring.
How Urgent Is a Leaking Pipe?
The urgency depends on leak severity and location. A pipe actively spraying water requires immediate emergency response—shut off your main water valve and call an emergency plumber right away. A pipe with a steady stream or constant drip should be addressed within 24 hours before the leak worsens or causes water damage.
A minor drip you can catch in a container may not require emergency service, but shouldn’t be ignored. Schedule a repair within the week before the small problem becomes an emergency. Even minor leaks waste water, increase utility bills, and often indicate deteriorating plumbing that will eventually fail completely.
Quick Assessment Guide
Call immediately: Spraying water, sewage smell, no water at all, flooding
Call within 24 hours: Steady drip, water stains spreading, gurgling drains
Schedule this week: Minor drip, slow drain, running toilet
Not sure if your situation is an emergency? Call Jumbo Plumbing for a free assessment.
Can the Plumber Handle Sewage Backup?
Sewage backups rank among the most serious plumbing emergencies homeowners face. Raw sewage contains dangerous bacteria: E. coli, hepatitis A virus, salmonella, and other pathogens that threaten your family’s health. Professional emergency plumbers have the training, equipment, and expertise to safely handle sewage emergencies.
Qualified emergency plumbers first contain the contamination to prevent spread. They use specialized equipment to remove sewage safely. They identify and repair the underlying cause (usually main sewer line blockage or failure). They coordinate with professional cleaning services for proper sanitization. Never attempt DIY sewage cleanup—contamination risks are too severe.
Common causes of sewage backup include main sewer line blockages from tree root intrusion, collapsed or damaged sewer pipes, municipal sewer system backups, and improper disposal of grease, wipes, or other non-flushable materials. Emergency plumbers use video inspection cameras to diagnose the root cause and recommend permanent solutions.
What Are 5 Examples of Emergency Situations?
Main sewer line backup — When your main sewer line fails, all drains in your home back up simultaneously. Sewage may emerge from toilets, floor drains, or the lowest drains in your home. This requires immediate emergency response to protect health and prevent extensive contamination.
Burst water main — A burst water main flooding your property threatens your home’s foundation, basement, and landscaping. High-pressure water flow makes DIY repairs impossible and dangerous.
Flooded basement from pipe failure — A flooded basement requires immediate water extraction and repairs to prevent structural damage and mold growth, regardless of the source.
Water heater rupture — A ruptured water heater can dump 40–80 gallons of hot water throughout your basement or utility room in minutes, causing severe damage to flooring, walls, stored items, and nearby rooms.
Frozen pipes at risk of bursting — Frozen pipes expand and create enormous internal pressure. If you discover frozen pipes, call an emergency plumber immediately before they burst. Professional thawing prevents rupture and the catastrophic flooding that follows.
Do They Fix Hot Water Heaters or Boilers? (And How Much Will It Cost?)
Yes, a full-service emergency plumber handles residential water heaters and boilers, regardless of the brand—from tank models to tankless systems.
Common emergencies—like getting no hot water, a serious leak, or strange banging noises—can range from a simple fix to needing a whole new unit. If your tank is over 8–12 years old, we’ll often recommend replacing it, as fixing an old system can cost more than just putting in a brand new one.
The Cost of Emergency Water Heater Service:
Water heater problems range from simple fixes to complete replacements. If your tank is over 8–12 years old, replacement often makes more financial sense than repairs, as fixing an aging system can cost more than installing a brand new unit.
Hot water tank installation and supply ranges $2,000–$3,800, depending on accessibility, tank size, and style. Gas water heaters typically cost more than electric models due to additional venting and gas line requirements.
The Cost of Fixing a Pipe:
Pipe repairs vary wildly based on accessibility:
Easy Access: A simple, accessible leak might cost $450–$800 during emergency hours.
Hidden Trouble: If we need to open drywall or flooring to find the leak, costs jump significantly. Factor in demolition and reconstruction, and you’re looking at $1,000–$3,000+.
Repair vs. Replace:
Should you repair a pipe or replace a whole section? An experienced plumber provides honest recommendations based on:
Your Pipe’s Age: If your plumbing is over 40 years old, or if you have corroding galvanized steel pipes, replacement is usually the smarter long-term investment.
The Damage: Multiple leaks throughout your system signal systemic failure—patch jobs won’t solve the underlying problem.
We assess your specific situation and guide you toward the best choice for your budget and the long-term health of your London, Ontario home.
Water heater problems don’t wait for business hours. Jumbo Plumbing repairs all major brands.
What to Expect During Your Emergency Plumbing Call
When you call a professional emergency service, they follow a solid plan to get the job done right, fast.
Making the Call
First, the dispatcher picks up immediately—no machines! They’ll get the key details from you and offer quick tips (like shutting off the main water valve) to minimize damage before the technician is even out the door.
To make your call smooth, be ready with:
- The Problem: Say exactly what’s happening. Not “a leak,” but “My basement has two inches of water from a burst pipe.”
- The Shut-Off: Tell them if you’ve turned off the main water. This is crucial!
- The Location: Give your precise address and any specific access info (gate codes, etc.).
- The Basics: Confirm the estimated arrival time and ask about their service call fee and rates.
The Visit
When the technician arrives in their fully stocked van, they should introduce themselves and show you their credentials. They will then:
- Assess: Thoroughly check the problem and explain exactly what needs fixing.
- Quote: Give you a written, upfront quote before they start any work.
- Repair & Review: Fix the issue, test the system, clean up their mess, and provide the warranty papers.
They are also experts in code—like the “1-3-5 Rule” that ensures your drains slope correctly. This means their repairs aren’t just quick fixes; they are built to last and follow the Ontario Building Code, preventing recurring headaches down the road.
Understanding Emergency Plumbing Costs in London, Ontario
Let’s be upfront: emergency plumbing costs more. This isn’t because plumbers are trying to cash in; it’s what keeps them ready to drop everything and drive to your home at 3 AM on Christmas Day. That higher rate covers 24/7 availability, training, licensing, and the guarantee that they’ll be there fast enough to prevent a disaster. You’re paying a premium to stop catastrophic damage before it happens.
What to Expect for Common Emergency Fixes:
- Drain Clogs: A regular unclog during business hours might be $150–$350. But if you need someone after hours, expect $250–$500, going higher for major issues like a blocked main sewer line that needs hydro-jetting.
- Leak Repairs: Simple faucet leaks are usually $150–$300. If the leak is hiding behind a wall or under a floor, the job gets complicated—and expensive—quick. You could easily pay $400–$1,500 just because of the demolition and reconstruction needed to reach the pipe.
- Hourly Rates: Licensed plumbers typically charge $85–$150 per hour during the day. If you need them at 1 AM, expect to pay $150–$250 per hour. This rate covers their full professional overhead and accountability.
The takeaway? That higher emergency fee isn’t just for labor; it’s the cost of instantly protecting your property and getting guaranteed expertise when you need it most.
Worried about costs? Jumbo Plumbing provides free estimates before any work begins.
How Quickly Should a Plumber Respond in an Emergency?
When you call an emergency plumber in London, Ontario, you need a person, not an answering machine. A good company will have a technician dispatched within 15 minutes of your call, with an estimated arrival at your door in 30 to 180 minutes under normal conditions.
Keep in mind, a few things can shift that timeline:
- Location: If you’re out in the far reaches of London, it might take a little longer.
- Widespread Crisis: During massive weather events (like a huge freeze), response times might slow as everyone calls at once. Plumbers will prioritize the most urgent situations.
- Traffic/Weather: Simple travel delays are always possible.
If your plumber is running late, don’t hesitate to call them back for an update. A professional service tracks their team and should be able to tell you exactly where your technician is. If a company can’t give you a clear update, that’s a sign to find someone else.
In the meantime, keep fighting the damage! Shut off the main water valve if you can, grab towels or a shop vac to pull up standing water, and move valuables out of the splash zone. Also, snap a few photos for your insurance, and call 911 if things get dangerous (like if water is hitting electrical outlets).
Look, when a pipe bursts in your London, Ontario home, you don’t have time to mess around searching Google. That first critical hour is the only thing standing between a minor repair and a flood that ruins everything.
That’s why a truly reliable emergency plumber is worth every penny. You’re not just paying for a repair; you’re paying for someone who’s licensed, insured, and guaranteed to show up fast—usually within 30 to 60 minutes, 24/7. That kind of speed prevents devastating damage, protects your home investment, and instantly gives you back your peace of mind.
Don’t wait for water to spray from your ceiling to figure out who to trust. Do the quick research now, verify their credentials, and save their number. That one little act of preparation can turn a potential disaster into a quick fix.
Don’t wait for an emergency to find a plumber you trust. Save Jumbo Plumbing’s number today — we’re London Ontario’s 24/7 emergency plumbing experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best emergency plumber in London, Ontario?
A: The best emergency plumber holds a valid Ontario license, carries comprehensive insurance, offers genuine 24/7 availability, provides upfront pricing, and has strong verified local reviews. Look for companies with proven fast response times and expertise handling urgent situations like burst pipes, sewage backups, and water heater failures.
Are there 24-hour plumbers available near me in London?
A: Yes, several licensed plumbing companies in London, ON offer true 24/7 emergency service. Verify they answer calls with a real person immediately and dispatch technicians within minutes—not just an after-hours answering service that schedules next-day callbacks.
How fast can a plumber arrive for a burst pipe?
A: Most emergency plumbers in London arrive within 30–60 minutes of your call. Response time depends on your location within the city, current call volume, and weather conditions. Reputable companies provide realistic arrival estimates when you call.
Do emergency plumbers charge extra?
A: Yes, after-hours and emergency calls typically include a premium of $50–$150 above standard rates. These premiums reflect costs of maintaining 24/7 availability, paying on-call technicians, and ensuring immediate response capability regardless of when emergencies occur.
Is the plumber licensed and insured?
A: Reputable emergency plumbers carry valid Ontario licenses issued by the Ontario College of Trades and comprehensive liability insurance. Always verify licensing and insurance coverage before authorizing any work to protect yourself from legal and financial risk.
Can the plumber handle sewage backup?
A: Qualified emergency plumbers have equipment and training to handle sewage backups safely. This includes sewage removal, identification and repair of the underlying cause, and coordination with professional cleaning services for proper sanitization. Never attempt DIY sewage cleanup due to severe health risks.
Do they fix hot water heaters or boilers?
A: Most emergency plumbing services include water heater and boiler repair for all major brands. Emergency plumbers can diagnose problems and complete repairs for tank water heaters, tankless systems, and boiler heating systems during emergency calls.
What is the response time for emergencies?
A: Professional emergency plumbers typically arrive within 30–60 minutes in the London, ON area. “Response time” means the technician arrives at your property ready to assess and begin repairs—not simply when the dispatcher acknowledges your call.
Do plumbers offer upfront pricing?
A: Reputable emergency plumbers provide upfront quotes before beginning any work, even for after-hours calls. These quotes should detail specific repairs needed, parts and materials required, labor costs, and total expected price with no hidden fees.
Is a small leak an emergency?
A: A small leak is generally not an emergency unless it sits near electrical components, grows rapidly, causes visible water damage, or you cannot access or control it. Even minor leaks should be addressed within a week before they worsen.
Can a burst pipe wait for a plumber?
A: No—shut off your main water valve immediately and call an emergency plumber to prevent extensive water damage. A typical burst pipe releases 2–4 gallons per minute, meaning even a 30-minute delay results in 60–120 gallons flooding your property.
What is the average cost to unclog a drain?
A: Drain unblocking in London, ON typically costs $350–$950 depending on drain size, equipment used (standard augering vs. hydrojetting), and access point—whether it’s a clean-out or requires toilet removal. Severe blockages requiring hydrojetting can cost $1,200–$2,200.
What is a minimum call-out charge?
A: A minimum call-out charge is a base fee (typically $75–$200) covering the plumber’s travel to your location and initial assessment. This minimum applies even if repairs take less than an hour or require minimal parts.
How much should you pay for a plumber per hour?
A: Standard hourly rates in Ontario range from $85–$150 during regular business hours, with emergency rates reaching $150–$250 per hour. These rates reflect the plumber’s training, licensing, insurance, equipment investment, and business overhead.
