If you’re staring down a plumbing emergency like a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet, you’ll want to know who to call right away. That’s why Yahoo Local puts so much effort into rounding up the best service providers in your area, so you can connect with a trustworthy plumber without having to do hours of research yourself.

For this guide, we researched more than 100 plumbing companies throughout L.A. County to bring you the four best plumbers in Los Angeles. We considered everything from customer reviews and Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation to state licensing status, online presence and more. We even reached out to our top picks directly to source up-to-date details about pricing, warranties and diagnostic fees. If you’re looking for a reliable plumber in L.A., whether it’s for a simple drain clog or new plumbing for a whole house, this guide will point you in the right direction.

Top Los Angeles plumbers

The best plumbing company in Los Angeles for YOU

This guide exclusively features vetted, top-rated plumbers, but not every plumber will be right for your needs. To find the right one for you, you should consider your budget, the specific services you need and your ideal project timeline. In most cases, people need plumbers on short notice, so you’ll most likely want to find one who offers same-day service.

If you need a plumber who can arrive as fast as possible to fix something like a clogged drain, leaky shower or overflowing toilet, start by calling Sal’s Plumbing, our top pick, which offers 24/7 emergency service. The other plumbers on this list also offer same-day service in most cases, but they do not specify being available for round-the-clock emergencies.

For those looking for an affordable fix, consider Service Champions, which offered the most competitive quote of the plumbers we spoke with. Sal’s Plumbing came in at a close second on price. Neither of these plumbers charge service fees, which helps cut down on costs, and Service Champions can even inspect and unclog your drain for less than $60.

Best plumbing companies in Los Angeles, Calif.

Sal’s Plumbing is the best overall Los Angeles plumbing company

Owned and operated by Sal and Joe Grammatico, Sal’s Plumbing has been in business since 1979. This Torrance-based plumbing company offers residential and commercial services, including drain cleaning, leak detection and repair, repiping, water heater services and more. These plumbers are also trained to work on gas lines. With strong reviews across Google (4.4 stars), Yelp (4.8 stars) and Angi (4.6 stars) from more than 1,400 reviews, Sal’s Plumbing is our pick for the overall best plumber serving Los Angeles.

When we reached out to the company, a representative told us that they charge a $105 minimum fee for drain clearing, though this price could increase if complications arise. A free visual estimate is included, but camera inspections (if one becomes necessary) cost extra. Sal’s Plumbing does not charge any additional diagnostic fees or service fees, and it provides financing options through U.S. Bank.

Services offered

• Residential and commercial plumbing

• Leak detection and repair

• Water heater and fixture installations (including tankless water heaters)

• Gas line inspection and leak repairs

• Epoxy pipe lining and trenchless sewer repair

A major plus of working with this plumber is that its technicians provide 24/7 emergency service. After you call, a plumber will be sent to your property as soon as possible, usually within a few hours. The customer service representative we spoke with was extremely helpful, friendly and happy to answer our questions.

Helping it stand out from the competition, Sal’s Plumbing offers an impressive 30-day warranty on all drain cleanings, which is not something most plumbers offer. The company also provides a 10-year transferable warranty for its epoxy pipe lining services. Sal’s Plumbing provides all warranties in writing.

This business is accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating and two registered complaints, both of which have been addressed by the company. We were not able to confirm whether or not this company conducts background checks on its technicians.

Sal’s Plumbing is open for service calls 24/7.

See Google reviews See Yelp reviews

Red Lilly Plumbing is our top alternative Los Angeles plumber

Founded by John W. Lilly in 1924, Red Lilly Plumbing is the longest-running L.A. plumbing company on this list. The company offers same-day service for plumbing emergencies Monday through Saturday, and its representatives and technicians can provide customer service in both English and Spanish.

Red Lilly Plumbing offers free on-site estimates, but quotes depend on the scope of service, according to the service representative we spoke with. Even for a simple drain clearing, the job may or may not require a camera inspection, and some clogs require deeper excavation than others. For these reasons, the representative explained, Red Lilly does not offer standardized pricing for its services.

That said, at the time of publication, Red Lilly is offering a promotion for a free camera inspection with any snaking or hydrojetting service. This offer will run through the end of 2029. The company also offers a variety of other discounts and promotions, which you can view on its coupons page.

Services offered

• Residential and commercial plumbing and HVAC

• Leak detection and repair

• Drain cleaning, hydrojetting and rootering

• Water heater installation and repair

• Earthquake shutoff valves

• Gas line installation and repair

While Red Lilly does not offer a formal service guarantee for drain clearings, there’s usually a brief grace period after the work is performed. If the clog returns within a couple days of being cleared, a Red Lilly technician will return and make things right, free of charge. For installations, Red Lilly offers robust warranties up to 50 years. It also offers limited lifetime warranties on sewer repairs, and it guarantees that all work performed is up to code.

The representative we spoke with was not able to confirm whether or not the company conducts formal background checks on its plumbing technicians. However, all staff members receive weekly safety training in accordance with standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Services also include heat pump installations and repairs, sewer inspections, repairs and replacements, and trenchless sewers.

The company is also committed to approaching plumbing in an eco-friendly way. For example, Red Lilly installs smart plumbing systems that can provide real-time water usage monitoring and leak detection to help reduce waste. The company also installs low-flow fixtures and energy-efficient water heaters.

Red Lilly Plumbing has received more than 1,000 positive reviews across Google (4.8 stars), Yelp (4.5 stars) and Angi (four stars) throughout its more than 100 years in business. The company is also accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating and just one complaint.

The office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It’s closed on Sundays.

See Google reviews See Yelp reviews

Service Champions is our best L.A. plumber for warranties and guarantees

Service Champions has been living up to its name as a leader in the Los Angeles plumbing field for more than 25 years. Founded in 2000, the company offers a 24-hour “fix it or hotel” guarantee for major plumbing issues, and its maintenance program Champ Rewards helps customers stay on top of plumbing maintenance throughout the year. Service Champions maintains strong reviews across Google, Yelp and BBB, and it promises zero hidden fees for its work.

For a simple drain clearing, Service Champions typically charges $99 flat, with no additional fees. However, at the time of publication, the company is offering same-day drain cleanings with a free camera inspection for just $57. All quotes are binding, meaning that the price will not increase once you agree to move forward with the work.

Service Champions does not accept payment until after all work is complete and the customer is satisfied with the service. If you need to hire the company for a larger project, Service Champions offers financing options for those who qualify. One of the only downsides of Service Champions is that the company only serves east LA, from Long Beach up to Pasadena and east to San Bernardino.

Services offered

• Water heater installation and repairs

• AC repair, installation and maintenance

• Furnace and heat pump repair, installation and maintenance

All Service Champions technicians are screened and background checked prior to hiring, and the company will email you a photo of your technician before they arrive. This helps you feel sure you’re letting the right person into your home. Service Champions also takes cleanliness seriously, using shoe covers and drop cloths during every project. Finally, the company emphasizes that every Service Champions technician undergoes 150 hours of training every year with a master technician.

Service Champions offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all jobs, including drain cleanings, and a lifetime guarantee on all installations to cover both parts and workmanship.

Service Champions is accredited by BBB with an A+ rating. It has received 21 complaints on the platform, all of which have either been resolved or addressed by the business. Service Champions currently holds a strong 4.9-star rating on Google from more than 660 reviews and a 4.2-star rating on Yelp from more than 180 reviews. Service Champions does not currently have any reviews on Angi.

The company is open for service calls 24/7.

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Monkey Wrench is the best Los Angeles plumber for comprehensive service

Founded in 1999 by Yossi Wachtel, Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric offers comprehensive home maintenance services throughout L.A. and surrounding areas. It offers same-day or next-day appointments depending on when you book, through an easy online booking system (or over the phone), and all jobs are protected by a workmanship guarantee. This includes basic jobs like drain cleanings, which often are not protected by other plumbers. “If something’s not done right, we make it right — no excuses, no runaround,” according to the company’s website.

Monkey Wrench charges $99 for a basic drain cleaning, on top of its standard $89 service fee. This fee applies to all on-site visits, regardless of whether you move forward with the service. If things get a bit more complicated and require a camera inspection, this will increase the price by $250. If the drain you need unclogged is a kitchen sink or shower drain, the base price will increase to $145. For those who qualify, Monkey Wrench offers financing options.

Services offered

• Residential and commercial plumbing, HVAC and electric

• Leak detection and repair

• Drain cleaning and repair

• Sump pumps, pipe repairs and sewer plumbing

• Water heater installations and repairs (including tankless)

Another unique perk of working with this plumber is its membership program. For a flat annual fee of $175, you’ll get access to things like zero service fees, routine plumbing tuneups, and a dedicated priority phone line for service calls.

The representative we spoke with could not confirm whether or not the company’s plumbing techs undergo formal background checks. However, she did let us know that all Monkey Wrench technicians are licensed and certified full-time employees, not subcontractors.

The company maintains solid reviews online, most notably with a 4.8-star average rating on Google from 465 reviews and 4.5 stars on Angi from 41 reviews. It currently holds a lower 3.6-star rating on Yelp from 306 reviews, but the majority of its customer reviews are still positive. Monkey Wrench is also accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating, and it has only received one complaint.

Monkey Wrench Plumbing is open for service calls 24/7. The office is located at 595 Monterey Pass Road, Monterey Park, Calif., 91754. Please note that the address listed on Google (and in the service module below) refer to a private Monkey Wrench supply warehouse, not a business office.

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You can count on Yahoo Local plumbing advice, and this is why

Yahoo has decades of experience providing trustworthy information on local businesses — and now we’re continuing that tradition with our Yahoo Local business guides. Our custom ranking system incorporates rankings from major platforms like Google, Yelp, Angi and Facebook, and it also factors in BBB ratings and complaints, licensing status and more. Overall, we believe our local business rankings are the most accurate and comprehensive available. Plus, unlike some competitors, Yahoo Local never takes payment for inclusion, and our picks are not “sponsored.” For more, check out our full methodology page.

Here’s a look at what went into the rankings for our list of the best plumbers in Los Angeles:

• 48,617 customer reviews and ratings from five sources

• Eight ranking criteria incorporated

• Interviewed or connected with all four featured plumbers

• Independent price quotes sought from all four featured plumbing companies

• Independently researched and fact-checked by Yahoo

• Recommendations are maintained and updated regularly

California plumbing FAQs

How do I know if my water heater needs repairs or a full replacement?

Water heaters are complex, and diagnosing them accurately requires a professional. If you’re just struggling with temperature regulation, you may be able to get away with a repair, especially if your unit is relatively new. However, if your water heater is leaking or aging, it’s likely time for a replacement. For more guidance, see these eight surefire signs you need to replace your water heater.

How long does a water heater typically last in California?

Water heater lifespan largely depends on the type, brand and model of the unit, plus how well it’s maintained. Tankless water heaters tend to last longer (15 to 20 years) while tank-style water heaters typically only last between six and 12 years, according to The Home Depot. In California, water heaters may last slightly longer than expected, as they won’t have to work as hard in the state’s mild climate.

To help you water heater last as long as possible, see our guide to water heater maintenance.

What are the most common issues people call plumbers to fix?

Some of the most common household plumbing issues include clogged drains, low water pressure and leaky faucets. Other common issues include burst pipes (especially in cold climates) and water heater issues. Most plumbing companies offer services that cover all of these categories, though some plumbers may specialize in certain areas, like water heaters or pipe repairs.

How can I tell if I can fix a plumbing issue myself or if I should call a pro?

Some small household plumbing issues, like clogged drains or leaky faucets, can sometimes be fixed yourself without calling a plumber. However, even seemingly simple issues can be much more complicated than they appear. For example, a clogged drain may be symptomatic of a backup further into the plumbing system, and using household remedies like drain snakes and Drano won’t do the trick.

If you’re dealing with anything obviously major, like a significant leak or broken water heater, you’ll definitely want to call a pro. Remember that attempting to repair your own plumbing is a risk, which can create costly problems and even void warranties on certain fixtures and units.

For those who feel ready to dive into a DIY plumbing project, here are the best DIY plumbing tools to have on hand.

Is it better to go with a smaller plumbing company or a larger one?

Yahoo Local makes a point to recommend working with local service providers whenever possible. This is because small local companies usually offer personalized service, flexible pricing and localized expertise that most larger companies can’t match. However, working with a larger plumbing company is sometimes the better option, especially if you can’t get scheduled in with a local plumber soon enough.

Do plumbing companies in California need to be licensed?

This depends, but usually, the answer is yes. California requires any plumber working on projects valuing $500 or more to be licensed through the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), according to ServiceTitan. Unlicensed plumbers must also be directly supervised by a registered contractor.

Do all reputable plumbers do background checks?

No. While many plumbing companies run background checks on their technicians, not all do. That said, this shouldn’t be an immediate reason not to hire a plumbing company. For example, it’s very common for plumbing companies to be family-run businesses, so the owners may view background checks as unnecessary. Some plumbers also work with the same crews for decades at a time, so they may feel comfortable vouching for their employees even without formal vetting.

If you prefer to work with a plumber who conducts background checks on crew members, you can ask this question upfront, and you may even be able to find this information on the company’s website.

Do plumbers usually charge by the hour or flat rate?

Most plumbers charge flat rates for their services, though this is not always the case. Some plumbers may also use a mixed pricing system, where some jobs are billed flat while others are billed based on time and materials. In general, flat rates tend to benefit the customer more, as there’s less uncertainty about the final amount. Before agreeing to work with a plumber, get clear on their pricing structure and request a written estimate of costs. You should also confirm whether your estimate is binding or non-binding.

Should plumbers provide written estimates before beginning a job?

Yes. You should always get a written estimate from a contractor before approving work to begin, whether it’s a plumber, roofer or any other type of contractor. Most reputable plumbers will provide a written estimate by default, but if they don’t, you can either request one or choose a different plumber.

If a plumber tries to insist on using a “handshake agreement” instead of a written estimate, this may be a red flag.

Do plumbers usually offer warranties? If so, what kind?

Most plumbers offer warranties on product installations and large projects like repiping or pipe lining. However, it’s less common for plumbers to provide formal warranties for service-only jobs like drain cleaning, as many factors are beyond the plumber’s control.

That said, many top-rated plumbers (including some of the L.A. plumbing companies on this list) offer service guarantees, promising to stand by their work in the event that a repair doesn’t work. If a plumber offers warranties or service guarantees for all projects, this is a great sign, especially if they’re willing to warranty or guarantee a simple drain clearing.

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