How Much Does a Plumber Cost in Washington, D.C.? [2025 Data]

The cost to hire a plumber in Washington, D.C. ranges from $202 to $521, on average, but most homeowners paying $350. In addition to the size and complexity of the job, plumbing costs in D.C. are often influenced by the city’s abundance of historic homes, which can require extra labor and specialized expertise. Permitting requirements, emergency fees, and the accessibility of plumbing systems also play a big role in what you’ll ultimately pay. Below, we break down the most common cost factors for plumbing services in the nation’s capital.

Washington, D.C., Plumber Cost Factors

Before you hire a plumber in Washington, D.C., it’s important to understand the local factors that can affect your total bill. 

Project Complexity

The size and scope of your plumbing project will significantly influence your total cost. Small jobs—such as replacing a faucet, fixing a toilet, or clearing a simple clog—generally run $100 to $300. Mid-range jobs, such as installing a new water heater or repairing a section of pipe, can range from $400 to $700. More complex projects, such as repiping a section of a house, replacing a sewer line, or installing a gas line, often cost between $800 and $1,500 or more. 

Accessibility and Historic Homes

Washington, D.C. is known for its historic architecture—think century-old rowhouses, multi-unit buildings, and homes with unique layouts. Many of these properties have older, sometimes fragile plumbing that wasn’t designed for modern fixtures and appliances. Accessing pipes in tight crawl spaces or outdated basements often requires extra labor and specialized tools, which increases costs. Additionally, replacing or adapting plumbing to meet today’s code requirements in historic homes can take more time and coordination with local building departments, further driving up expenses.

Permits and Code Requirements

The D.C. Department of Buildings (DOB) requires permits for virtually all plumbing projects that modify or extend existing systems, especially those involving sewer, gas, or structural components. According to the DOB, permit fees for plumbing projects start at $26 and increase depending on the project scope. Additionally, DOB Inspection Services may require an inspection before work begins or is completed, which can introduce scheduling delays or incur additional administrative fees. Historic homes or properties in preservation districts may face stricter permit requirements. 

Emergency Services

If a plumbing issue arises outside of normal business hours—such as at night, on a weekend, or during a holiday—you should expect to pay premium rates. In D.C., emergency plumbing services cost 1.5 to three times the standard hourly rate, which can add hundreds of dollars to your bill. These services are common for burst pipes during winter freezes, sewer backups, or major water leaks that require immediate attention. To help avoid emergency costs, D.C. homeowners should consider scheduling preventative maintenance and addressing minor plumbing issues before they escalate.

Plumber Pro Costs in D.C.

Hiring a plumber in Washington, D.C. involves more than just comparing hourly rates. Factors like licensing, insurance, local labor standards, and even the neighborhood can affect what you pay. In a market with many historic homes and strict building codes, hiring a properly licensed professional is essential. Below, we break down what you need to know about plumber labor costs, local licensing requirements, and when it’s appropriate to tip your plumbing pro.

Hourly Rates

Plumbers cost an average of $45 to $200 per hour nationally. The rate often varies based on the plumber’s licensing level—apprentice, journeyman, or master—as well as the type of work being performed. Jobs that require diagnosing complex problems or involve older plumbing systems, typical of D.C.'s historic rowhouses, may command higher hourly fees.

Flat Rates

Many plumbing tasks are billed at flat rates, especially for common jobs with predictable scope. In Washington, D.C.—where many homes have tight, historic plumbing setups—these flat-rate fees help provide clarity and avoid unexpected time-based billing.

For example, a standard toilet replacement might cost an even $600, including labor and materials such as bolts and wax rings, or you may be quoted for the cost of gas line repair at $700. However, for larger projects, such as repiping, gas line installation, or bathroom rough-ins, you’ll likely receive a custom estimate based on labor hours, materials, and permitting costs.

Trip or Service Call Fees

Many plumbers in Washington, D.C. charge a trip fee or service call fee, typically between $100 and $300. However, most D.C. residents should plan to pay toward the top end of this range. This fee typically encompasses travel time and basic diagnostics.

Tipping and Gratuity

While tipping isn’t required for plumbing work, it is a welcome gesture for excellent service, emergency jobs, or large projects that span several days. A tip of $20 to $50 per plumber is appreciated for standout work. Alternatively, offering a positive online review can also go a long way in supporting plumbers near you.

Does Plumbing Work Increase Home Value in D.C.?

Upgrading the plumbing in a D.C. home can enhance its resale value, particularly in older rowhouses and historic properties. Modern systems boost energy and water efficiency, enhance functionality, and help avoid expensive emergency repairs. Updated plumbing also ensures compliance with local codes, which can be a selling point in D.C.'s competitive real estate market.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed over 30,000 real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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