Easy 1-2 hours research $150-$500 typical service call

How to Hire a Plumber in Ontario

A step-by-step guide to finding, vetting, and hiring a reliable plumber for your home project.

How to Hire the Right Plumber

This Old House · 350K+ views

What This Video Covers

How to identify your plumbing issue before calling a pro
Key questions to ask plumbers before hiring them
Red flags to watch for when getting plumbing quotes
How to verify licensing and insurance credentials

Safety Warnings

Never attempt to work on main water lines or sewer connections yourself.
If you smell gas near water heaters or pipes, evacuate immediately and call your gas utility.
Always shut off the water supply before attempting any minor plumbing repairs.

Step-by-Step Guide

Define your plumbing issue

Identify whether you need a repair (leaky faucet, running toilet), an installation (new fixtures, water heater), or an emergency service. Knowing the scope helps you get accurate quotes.

Check ProScore ratings

Search for plumbers in your area on ProScore. Filter by city and look for contractors with a ProScore of 70+ (Trusted tier or higher). Review their verification status across up to 15+ data sources.

Verify licensing and insurance

Ontario plumbers should carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage. Check their ProScore profile for verified credentials. Ask for proof of insurance before work begins.

Get at least 3 quotes

Contact your top 3 rated plumbers for written quotes. A good quote includes labour, materials, timeline, and warranty terms. Be wary of quotes significantly lower than others.

Check reviews across platforms

Read Google Reviews, BBB ratings, and other verified platform reviews on their ProScore profile. Look for patterns in feedback about reliability, communication, and quality of work.

Confirm the details in writing

Before work starts, get a written agreement covering scope of work, total cost, payment schedule, timeline, and cleanup expectations. Never pay the full amount upfront.

Inspect the completed work

After the job is done, inspect the work thoroughly. Run water, check for leaks, and ensure everything functions properly. Most reputable plumbers offer a workmanship warranty.