Finding a good plumber in Chicago is harder than it should be. I say that as someone who has been in the plumbing trade since 2009 and earned my Illinois Apprentice Plumber license in 2014. I've seen the good, the bad, and everything in between. Here's what I wish every homeowner knew before picking up the phone.
1. Verify Their License
In Illinois, plumbers are required to be licensed through the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This is non-negotiable. A licensed plumber has demonstrated the knowledge and training necessary to work on your home's plumbing system safely. You can verify a plumber's license status directly through the IDPH website.
If someone can't provide a license number or gets defensive when you ask, that's your cue to move on. Legitimate plumbers are proud of their credentials.
2. Check for Insurance
A licensed plumber should carry both general liability insurance and workers' compensation. This protects you if something goes wrong during the job. Without insurance, you could be on the hook for property damage or injuries that happen on your property.
Ask for a certificate of insurance before any work begins. A professional plumber will have this ready to go.
3. Read Real Reviews
Google reviews are one of the most reliable indicators of a plumbing company's quality. Look for companies with a solid volume of reviews (not just 5 perfect scores) and pay attention to how they respond to negative feedback. A company that addresses complaints professionally is usually one that cares about their reputation.
Be cautious of companies with only glowing reviews and no specifics. Real reviews mention specific services, technician names, and details about the work performed.
4. Get Multiple Estimates
Never accept the first quote you receive. Get at least two or three estimates for any significant plumbing work. This gives you a baseline for what the job should cost and helps you identify outliers — both suspiciously cheap and unreasonably expensive.
A good plumber will provide a written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and any potential additional costs. If someone gives you a vague verbal quote, be wary.
5. Ask About Their Experience with Your Specific Problem
Plumbing covers a wide range of services — from simple faucet repairs to full sewer line replacements. Not every plumber specializes in every area. Ask specifically about their experience with the type of work you need done.
For example, if you need a sewer camera inspection, ask how many they've done, what equipment they use, and whether they own the equipment or subcontract the work.
6. Look for Transparent Pricing
The best plumbing companies are upfront about their pricing structure. Some charge by the hour, others use flat-rate pricing. Neither is inherently better, but you should understand how you'll be billed before work starts.
Watch out for “diagnostic fees” that get absorbed into the final bill vs. ones that don't. And always ask about overtime rates if the work might extend beyond normal hours.
7. Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, you're letting someone into your home. Pay attention to how they communicate. Are they patient with your questions? Do they explain things in terms you can understand? Do they show up on time?
The plumbing industry, like any trade, has its share of people who cut corners. But there are also incredible professionals who take pride in their craft. A little due diligence goes a long way in finding the right one.
Chicago-Specific Tips
Chicago has some unique plumbing challenges. The city's aging infrastructure means many homes still have lead service lines, galvanized steel pipes, and outdated sewer connections. If you live in an older neighborhood, make sure your plumber has experience working with these systems.
Additionally, Chicago requires permits for many types of plumbing work. A reputable plumber will pull the necessary permits and schedule inspections as required by the city. If someone suggests skipping the permit process to save money, that's a major red flag.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a plumber is about more than finding the cheapest option. It's about finding someone who is licensed, insured, experienced, and trustworthy. Your home's plumbing system is one of its most critical components — it deserves a professional who treats it that way.
If you're looking for a trusted plumber in the Chicago area, check out ThePlumbingDirectory.com — the most comprehensive plumbing directory in the United States, which I co-own and operate.
