How to Find a Reliable Plumber
What to look for, what questions to ask, and how to avoid costly mistakes when hiring a plumber.
In this article
Plumbing problems never wait for a convenient time. Whether it's a burst pipe at midnight or a slow drain ruining your morning routine, finding a reliable plumber quickly — and without overpaying — is a skill worth having.
Check for licensing and insurance
In Ontario, plumbing is a compulsory trade — a plumber needs a Certificate of Qualification from Skilled Trades Ontario (or to be a registered apprentice). Ask to see it before any work begins. A licensed plumber has passed exams on local codes and standards.
Insurance matters too. Liability insurance protects your home if something goes wrong during the job. Workers' compensation covers the plumber and their team if anyone is injured on your property.
Read reviews from real jobs
Generic star ratings can be misleading. Look for platforms where reviews are tied to completed jobs — not just star-clicks. On FivsPro, only a customer with a completed booking can leave a review.
Pay attention to reviews that mention timeliness, cleanliness, and whether the final price matched the quote.
Get at least two quotes
For any job over $200, get quotes from two or three plumbers. A quote should be itemised — labour, parts, and any call-out fee listed separately. Be wary of quotes that arrive as a single round number with no breakdown.
Ask the right questions before hiring
- How long have you been licensed in this state/province?
- Do you carry liability and workers' comp insurance?
- Will you pull the required permits for this job?
- Is there a warranty on parts and labour?
- What's your call-out fee and how is it applied to the final bill?
Red flags to watch for
Avoid plumbers who demand full payment upfront, refuse to provide a written quote, or can't produce proof of insurance on request. Legitimate professionals have nothing to hide.
Compare plumbers on FivsPro
FivsPro is a meeting place for independent plumbers and the customers who need them. Compare profiles, reviews from completed bookings and any documents a plumber uploaded — then confirm their licence and insurance yourself before you hire.
FivsPro Editorial
Editorial Team
The FivsPro editorial team creates practical guides to help homeowners make better hiring decisions and help service professionals grow their businesses in Ontario, Canada.
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