Plumbing in Philadelphia: what to know
Philadelphia has cold winters with occasional snow and hot, humid summers. Rowhomes are everywhere, many over 100 years old, with shared walls, flat roofs and older plumbing and electrical systems.
- Frozen and burst pipes are a real risk in winter; pipes in exterior walls, garages and crawl spaces should be insulated.
- Older homes may still have galvanized steel or cast-iron drain lines that corrode and clog from the inside.
How much does plumbing cost?
- Plumber (per hour): $70 – $150
- Burst pipe repair: $200 – $980
- Main sewer line unclog: $340 – $630
Estimate only. Typical price ranges based on public US cost data, adjusted by state. Your actual quote comes directly from the pro and depends on your home and the job.
Get a quote from a local pro →How it works
What plumbing problem are you having, and is water actively leaking or overflowing now? Describe the problem, add your ZIP code and when you need help, and we look for an available local professional in the Philadelphia area. The request takes about 2 minutes, is free, and your address stays private until a professional is assigned.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for plumbing work in Philadelphia?
Repairs like fixing a leak or a clog usually do not need a permit, but replacing water or sewer lines, moving fixtures or re-piping usually does. In Philadelphia, permits are typically handled by the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). Rules change, so confirm with them before work starts.
Which parts of Philadelphia do you cover?
Requests are accepted from anywhere in the Philadelphia area, including Center City, Fishtown, South Philly, Northeast Philadelphia and Manayunk. Availability depends on local professionals in your ZIP code.
How much does plumbing cost in Philadelphia?
Typical price ranges for Pennsylvania are shown in the cost estimate above. The final price depends on the job, materials and access, and the professional gives you a quote before any work begins. Sending a request is free.