Find the Best Plumbers in Bakersfield, CA

Getting plumbers in Bakersfield

Bakersfield has a wide selection of plumbing companies, but not all companies focus on the same things. With many new homes being built in Bakersfield, some plumbers specialize in constructing new plumbing systems or remodeling existing kitchens and bathrooms. Others focus on basic repairs and emergency service.

Some of the most common repairs in Bakersfield are:

• Water heater repair or replacement: While some water heaters need to be replaced because of age or failure, saving energy and water is important to California residents as well. Many homeowners choose to upgrade to energy-efficient water heaters to cut their utility bills and conserve water.
• Leaking pipes: Some Bakersfield residents experience line leaks because of polyethylene pipes that were installed during the 1960s. Although cheaper than copper pipes, the pipes degrade when they come into contact with chlorine, which is used as a disinfectant with water.
• Replacing old fixtures or sewer lines: Even the best-made equipment eventually fails over time, and owners of older homes, like those in Oleander Sunset or Westchester, find they need to replace aging equipment to fix or prevent failures.

The cost of plumbing repair in Bakersfield

Some plumbers offer free estimates for repairs, while others charge a fee to visit your home and diagnose the problem. In many cases, the company applies the fee toward your final bill if you hire the company to perform the needed work. Be sure to get a written estimate that includes parts and labor before beginning any repairs.

Some companies may charge additional fees for same-day service or repairs made after regular business hours. If you live outside a company’s regular service range, you may also be billed for travel time. Ask the company about any additional costs that could cause your final bill to be more than expected.

Average costs for common plumbing projects in Bakersfield

Choosing a plumber in Bakersfield

California requires plumbing contractor businesses to carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Plumbers must also be licensed with California’s Department of Consumer Affairs’ Contractors State License Board. A company’s license number should be displayed on its website or readily available when you call. Consumers can check a plumber’s license status on the board’s website.

Certain types of repairs, including installing or replacing a water heater, require a permit in Bakersfield. Your plumber will be able to help you determine whether you need to apply for a permit. Kern County also provides information on what types of projects require building permits.

If a permit is not obtained at the time the work is performed, the county may levy fines later. Additionally, homeowners who do not have proper permits will not be able to sell their homes until fines are paid and inspections are performed.