Are Plumbing Estimates Free?

Plumbing estimates and on-site quotes should always be free and are really a mandatory requirement for many reasons. You should view any plumbing service that quotes you over the phone with caution since that company will not be able to collect enough information to provide a truly accurate estimate.

As a plumbing service in Tucson, AZ, we receive calls daily asking us what our costs are. They are usually from homeowners who have experienced some sort of emergency and want to make sure that our costs fit their budget-and we definitely understand this.

Unfortunately, in 99% of such cases, we cannot provide a truly accurate quote over the phone. This is really for the customer’s protection. Plumbers that do provide a quote are attempting to book the job so that they can be the first on-site for the service repair. They may underprice and then overcharge after the fact.

Often times when this happens, the estimate they provided over the phone changes, because the plumber, now having been on-site, has a clearer understanding of the intricacies involved in performing the work and completing the job.

Hourly Vs Flat Rate Plumbing Estimates

In addition to understanding why plumbing estimates or on-site quotes should be free, it is also good to understand the difference between Flat Rate and Hourly Pricing.

As it pertains to hourly pricing, it is priced exactly how it sounds – by the hour. While this type of estimate is popular among some plumbers it also leaves room for inconsistencies in cost. If the job ends up taking longer than the plumber estimated it may begin to endure extra costs.

In contrast, flat rate pricing is a price that is provided on a plumbing estimate that does not take hours into consideration. Whether it takes the plumber 3 hours to be completed or 8 hours, the price will remain exactly the same.

Between both types of plumbing estimates, flat rate prices help keep you, as a customer, safe from further project costs down the road. At Al Coronado Plumbing we only believe in flat-rate pricing, as any experienced plumber should know how long the job is going to take if they have been diligent in their inspection.

The Average Plumbing Estimate Nationally

While plumbing estimates are free, we have taken the time out to provide you with information regarding the average cost of repair at flat rate fees.

Note: These are not Al Coronado’s Prices, they are a national average.

Slab Leak Estimate

Fixing a slab leak under concrete can cost anywhere from $500 – $4000 depending on the equipment needed and the obstacles in the way of displacing foundation in order to get to the leak.

Leaking or Burst Pipe Estimate

Leaking or burst pipes can cost anywhere from $150 to $350, with the diagnosis of the leak costing anywhere from $100 – $200. This does not include drywall or the repair cost of the sub-wall or floor.

If the pipe bursts it is likely for a homeowner to pay anywhere from $1000 to $4000 in water damage cleanup and repair fees.

Main Water Line Estimate

If a main water line leaks or needs repair it can cost anywhere from $300 to $4000 depending on where the leak takes place along the line.

In some instances, if the line depth is deeper than average or in a location that is hard to access, there may be additional fees associated with the main water line plumbing estimate.

Drain and Clogged Pipe Estimates

The average estimate of clearing a drain or pipe is roughly $200 – $500 depending on where the drain is located and if there are junctions or bends in it that make it more complicated to unclog.

All sinks or drains in your home should utilize a catcher to prevent problems with draining in the future and may save you hundreds down the line.

Sewer and Septic Estimates

Because of how important sewers are to your house and the surrounding homes, they are usually expedited jobs and tend to cost more than other plumbing jobs because of this.

The average price of installing a sewer main is $3,000, with a cleaning coming in at $300 – $600. If the mainline is needing to be repaired it can be upwards of $4500 or more.

If your problem is with a septic tank, the issue must also be expedited. An average septic estimate cost may be in the low range of $500 for pumping the tank, while repairs and replacements can cost upwards of $7000.

Toilet Repair Estimates

The average cost of a toilet repair round from $140 to $400 depending on the various parts and amount of labor required to fix it.

Plumbing Estimate Conclusion

As you can see, when it comes to plumbing estimates, the price can vary from relatively low to incredibly high. Because of this, we always recommend having a certified technician from a reputable plumbing company to physically come out to your house before assuming that the price they provide will be accurate.

At Al Coronado Plumbing, we value getting the price right the first time. Get in touch today for more information, or a free plumbing estimate or on-site inspection in your area. We look forward to hearing from you!

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