Areas served: Charlottesville, VA and surrounding Albemarle County
Charlottesville's plumbing infrastructure reflects both historic preservation needs in downtown areas and modern residential development across Albemarle County. This directory catalogs licensed plumbing contractors serving the region, from emergency repairs to water heater installations and sewer line work. Providers are documented with verified licensing, service areas, emergency response capabilities, and specializations relevant to both older homes near the University of Virginia and newer construction in surrounding communities.
Michael & Son Services is a full-service home care company serving Charlottesville and surrounding Virginia communities since 1976. With 500+ service trucks on the road and NATE-certified technicians available 24/7, they handle everything from emergency AC repairs and furnace installations to drain cleaning, electrical panel upgrades, and water damage restoration. Their Membership Plan offers priority service and exclusive repair savings, and they've earned 4.8 stars from over 3,000 Google reviews for their upfront pricing and reliability.
“I have used Michael & Sons once for electrical which was an excellent experience. At that time I bought a service contract which included maintenance. Today they checked my heating and cooling system. Turned out I had something that needed replacing. So glad to catch the problem early. My service tech was excellent, very friendly and professional. So pleased to find a family owned company to take care of my electrical, heating and plumbing needs. I highly recommend this company!”
— Eileen Spence, Google Review · 4.8 ★ avg from 3065 reviewsAlbemarle Heating & Air has been serving Charlottesville and surrounding counties since 1988 with comprehensive HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality services. This locally-owned company employs fully licensed, trained technicians who service all makes and models of heating, cooling, and plumbing systems. With a 4.9-star rating from over 2,200 Google reviews, they're known for punctual service, upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency availability, and a customer-first approach that prioritizes health, safety, and comfort. Their team handles everything from routine maintenance and repairs to full system installations, plus specialized services like whole-home air purification, dehumidification, and water heater replacement.
“We’ve used AHA for years and they’ve always been great. Chris and Denis came by today and helped fix a simple problem for me. They were super nice and very efficient. They took the time to explain how my dehumidifier works so I can address some basic maintenance myself.”
— Emily Daniel, Google Review · 4.9 ★ avg from 2178 reviewsSunwave Plumbing is a locally-owned Charlottesville plumbing company founded by Levi and Thomas, focused on quality workmanship and clear communication. They provide comprehensive plumbing services including drain cleaning, water heater installation/repair, sewer line work, and fixture installations, with a 5-star rating from 543 reviews. The team is committed to transforming the plumbing industry through attention to detail, skilled technicians, and customer-first service.
The Otter Guys is a locally owned and operated HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality company serving Charlottesville and Central Virginia with licensed technicians, upfront pricing, and same-day service availability. With a 4.9-star rating from 973 reviews, they specialize in heating and cooling systems suited to the region's climate, comprehensive plumbing services from leak detection to sewer line repair, and indoor air quality solutions. Their commitment to honest recommendations and transparent pricing without pressure has made them a trusted choice for Charlottesville homeowners.
Fitch Services is a locally owned and operated provider of heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical services in Charlottesville, serving the area since 1983. Founded and led by John Fitch and his son Christopher Fitch—both Virginia-licensed Master Electricians, Master HVAC Technicians, and Master Plumbers—the company is known for completing most repairs on the first visit with fully stocked trucks and expert technicians who receive annual training. They offer 24/7 emergency service and free second opinions on major projects.
Robertson Electric is a full-service HVAC, electrical, and plumbing company serving Charlottesville, VA since 1968. With a 4.8-star rating across 1,189 reviews, they're known for prompt same-day appointments, expert technicians, and transparent communication. Their longevity and local awards reflect their commitment to treating customers like family.
W.E. Brown is a full-service home comfort company with over 100 years of experience serving Charlottesville and Albemarle County. They provide electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and smart home technology services with a 4.8-star rating from 540 reviews. Their legacy of expertise combined with pioneering new technologies makes them a trusted partner for comprehensive home system needs.
Beck Cohen is a highly-rated electrical service provider in Charlottesville, VA, with an impressive 4.9-star rating from over 1,500 reviews. They offer comprehensive electrical services for residential and commercial clients, handling everything from routine maintenance to complex installations and repairs.
Rooter-Man is a locally-owned plumbing and drain cleaning company serving Charlottesville, VA with over 50 years of industry experience. They offer comprehensive plumbing services including emergency repairs, drain cleaning, sewer line work, and water heater installation—with same-day service for most non-emergencies. With a 4.8-star rating from 386 verified reviews, they're known for professional technicians, guaranteed repairs, and fair pricing.
Roto-Rooter is Charlottesville's trusted 24/7 emergency plumbing service, operating as an independent contractor with over 90 years of industry experience. They specialize in comprehensive plumbing solutions including drain cleaning, water heater repair/installation, sewer line service, and emergency repairs for both residential and commercial properties. Licensed, insured, and equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, they offer same-day service, transparent upfront pricing, and flexible financing options.
Rogers Plumbing is a licensed Class B contractor in Charlottesville serving residential and commercial plumbing needs with a focus on quality workmanship and clear communication. They handle everything from routine repairs like faucet and toilet work to major projects including kitchen and bathroom remodels, new construction, and water line replacements. With a 5-star rating from 35 reviews, they're known for reliability and customer satisfaction.
ALKOH Supply Inc is a woman-owned plumbing supply distributor founded in 1991 and family-operated for over three decades in Charlottesville, VA. They specialize in high-quality plumbing materials for both contractors and homeowners, stocking everything from pipes and valves to fittings, and serve as one of central Virginia's largest Milwaukee Tool distributors. Known for their reputation built on word-of-mouth referrals, ALKOH sources products from reputable manufacturers like Delta Faucet, Niagara Toilets, and Klein Tools.
Ferguson Plumbing Supply is the nation's largest distributor of residential and commercial plumbing products, with a full-service location on Garrett Street in Charlottesville. They stock water heaters, pumps, pipe, valves, fittings, fixtures, and accessories for any plumbing project. Their knowledgeable staff provides technical expertise and engineered solutions for homeowners, contractors, and commercial projects.
Advanced Plumbing Services is a locally-owned plumbing company serving Central Virginia with over 20 years of experience since 2006. They specialize in residential and commercial plumbing repairs, offering 24/7 emergency services to keep homes and businesses running smoothly. Their team provides affordable, dependable solutions for everything from leaky pipes to major plumbing emergencies.
Absolute Plumbing & Drain Cleaning Services Inc is a full-service plumbing company serving Charlottesville with expertise in drain cleaning, repairs, and general plumbing work. With a 4.8-star rating from 11 reviews, they've built a reputation for reliable, professional service in the local community. They handle both emergency and scheduled plumbing needs for residential and commercial clients.
Rooter Guy Plumbing is a locally owned and operated plumbing company serving Charlottesville and surrounding areas since 1996. They specialize in drain clearing, sewer cleaning, video pipe inspection, water heater repair, and general plumbing services with 24-hour emergency availability. Known for quality workmanship and personalized service, they offer senior citizen and student discounts to make plumbing repairs more affordable.
Perfect Plumbing Services has been serving Charlottesville with over 30 years of plumbing experience. They offer comprehensive services including water heater installation and repair, fixture installation (bathtubs, sinks), drain cleaning, gas line installation, well pump service, and general plumbing repairs at competitive pricing.
SAS Plumbing is a local plumbing service serving the Charlottesville area with a focus on reliable, professional repairs and installations. Based on their strong 5-star rating, they are known for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. The business handles general plumbing needs for both residential and commercial clients.
T D Payne Plumbing & Heating is a locally-operated plumbing and heating service in Charlottesville serving residential and commercial clients. With a perfect 5-star rating, they provide reliable plumbing and heating solutions for the local community.
Charlottesville Plumbing Solutions provides plumbing services to the Charlottesville area from their Cherry Avenue location. With a current rating based on customer reviews, they offer local plumbing expertise for residential and commercial needs.
Michael & Son Services ranks #1 in Charlottesville with a Lantern Score of 95/100 and an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 3,065 reviews. They've been serving the area since 1976 with 500+ service trucks and NATE-certified technicians, offering comprehensive plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services. They're particularly valued for their 24/7 emergency availability, transparent upfront pricing, and proactive maintenance plans, making them ideal for homeowners who want one trusted company for all home repairs.
Ten plumbing companies in Charlottesville offer weekend service. For full weekend availability (Saturday and Sunday, 24 hours), consider Michael & Son Services, Robertson Electric, Fitch Services, Roto-Rooter, absolute plumbing & drain cleaning services, Perfect Plumbing services, or Charlottesville Plumbing Solutions. If you need Saturday morning service, Ferguson Plumbing Supply operates 8 AM-12 PM on Saturdays. The Otter Guys offers convenient 9 AM-4 PM hours both Saturday and Sunday, while Albemarle Heating & Air operates Saturday 8 AM-4 PM.
Sunwave Plumbing holds a perfect 5.0-star rating from 543 reviews with an 82 Lantern Score, making them the highest-rated established plumber in the area. Albemarle Heating & Air follows closely with 4.9 stars from 2,178 reviews and a 95 Lantern Score. The Otter Guys also maintains 4.9 stars from 973 reviews. Among smaller operations, Rogers Plumbing, SAS Plumbing, and T D Payne Plumbing & Heating each have perfect 5-star ratings, though with fewer reviews (35, 2, and 2 respectively).
Several top-rated plumbers provide round-the-clock emergency service. Michael & Son Services (#1, 95 Lantern Score) operates 24/7 with 500+ trucks. Robertson Electric (82 Lantern Score, 4.8 stars) and Fitch Services (82 Lantern Score, 4.8 stars) both offer 24/7 availability and are known for same-day emergency repairs. Roto-Rooter specializes specifically in 24/7 emergency plumbing with over 90 years of industry experience. Albemarle Heating & Air also provides 24/7 emergency service for customers concerned about urgent heating, cooling, or plumbing issues.
Both hold 95 Lantern Scores, but there are key differences. Michael & Son Services is a larger regional operation with 500+ trucks and has been in business since 1976, offering comprehensive multi-trade service (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) with 24/7 availability. Albemarle Heating & Air is locally-owned since 1988 and focuses more specifically on HVAC and plumbing with particular expertise in indoor air quality. Michael & Son has 3,065 reviews with 4.8 stars, while Albemarle has 2,178 reviews with a slightly higher 4.9-star rating. Both offer transparent pricing and maintenance plans.
Yes, several highly-rated locally-owned options exist. Albemarle Heating & Air (95 Lantern Score, 4.9 stars) has been locally-owned since 1988. Sunwave Plumbing (82 Lantern Score, 5 stars) is locally-owned by Levi and Thomas with a focus on quality workmanship. Fitch Services (82 Lantern Score) has been locally-owned since 1983 and is run by master technicians John and Christopher Fitch. The Otter Guys (82 Lantern Score, 4.9 stars) is also locally-owned with licensed technicians. Rooter-Man (82 Lantern Score) is locally-owned with over 50 years of industry experience.
While specific pricing isn't publicly listed by most Charlottesville plumbers, costs typically align with regional Virginia averages. Simple repairs like fixing a leaky faucet generally run $150-$300, while drain cleaning ranges from $150-$400 depending on severity. Water heater replacement typically costs $1,200-$3,500 based on tank size and type. Sewer line repairs can range from $1,500 to $10,000+ depending on extent of damage and access. Emergency after-hours service usually includes premium fees. Companies like Michael & Son Services and The Otter Guys emphasize transparent upfront pricing, so you'll know costs before work begins. Always request detailed estimates from multiple providers.
Specialized plumbers like Sunwave Plumbing or Rooter-Man focus exclusively on plumbing, offering deep expertise in pipes, drains, water heaters, and sewer systems—ideal for complex plumbing projects or when you want a true plumbing specialist. Multi-service companies like Michael & Son Services, Robertson Electric, or W.E. Brown offer the convenience of handling plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work under one roof, which is advantageous for whole-home maintenance plans, emergency situations where the problem source is unclear, or coordinating multiple home systems. If you have an older home requiring frequent maintenance across multiple systems, a multi-service provider may offer better value and relationship continuity. For straightforward plumbing-specific needs, a specialist often provides focused expertise.
Start by confirming they hold a valid Virginia Class A or B plumbing license and carry both liability and workers' compensation insurance. Ask about their experience with your specific issue—whether it's a simple repair, complex remodel, or emergency situation. Request a detailed written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and any potential additional costs. Inquire about warranties on both parts and labor. For emergency services, clarify their response time and after-hours fees. Ask if they offer maintenance plans or service guarantees. Check whether they provide upfront pricing or charge by the hour. Finally, request references or read recent reviews to verify their reputation for quality work and customer communication.
Call a licensed plumber immediately for gas line issues, sewer backups, burst pipes, no hot water, or signs of foundation damage from plumbing leaks—these pose safety risks or can cause extensive property damage. Also seek professional help for permit-required work like water heater replacement, major remodels, or new fixture installations, as improper work may violate code and affect insurance coverage. DIY is generally safe for minor tasks like replacing washers in dripping faucets, unclogging slow drains with a plunger, or replacing toilet flappers. However, if a simple fix doesn't resolve the issue within 30 minutes, call a professional—continuing could worsen damage. Companies like Rooter-Man and Roto-Rooter specialize in emergency situations, while firms like Sunwave Plumbing handle routine maintenance that can prevent emergency calls.
Age is a primary factor: water heaters over 10-15 years old, galvanized pipes over 50 years, or fixtures with persistent problems despite repairs usually warrant replacement. Visible corrosion, rust-colored water, or frequent leaks indicate pipes nearing end-of-life. If repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, replacement is typically more economical. Multiple simultaneous plumbing issues often signal systemic problems requiring comprehensive replacement. Low water pressure throughout the house may indicate corroded pipes restricting flow. Companies like W.E. Brown with over 100 years of experience can assess whether your situation requires repair or replacement. For older or historic Charlottesville homes, The Otter Guys specializes in evaluating aging systems and recommending appropriate solutions.
Schedule annual plumbing inspections with companies offering maintenance plans like Michael & Son Services, Robertson Electric, or Albemarle Heating & Air—preventive maintenance identifies problems before they become emergencies. Never pour grease down drains and use drain screens to catch hair and debris. Know where your main water shutoff valve is located and test it annually. Insulate exposed pipes before winter to prevent freezing—particularly important in Charlottesville's variable climate. Replace washing machine hoses every 5 years and check under sinks regularly for small leaks. Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can corrode pipes; instead, use enzymatic cleaners or call drain specialists like Rooter-Man. Consider upgrading to modern fixtures and pipes if your home has original plumbing over 40 years old.
Charlottesville's many historic and older homes face specific plumbing challenges. Galvanized steel pipes installed before 1960 corrode internally, causing low water pressure and rusty water—eventual replacement is necessary. Clay sewer lines common in pre-1980 homes are susceptible to tree root intrusion, requiring camera inspection and potential replacement. Outdated fixtures waste water and may not meet current code for remodels. Cast iron drain pipes deteriorate over time, leading to leaks and drainage issues. Inadequate water heater sizing for modern usage patterns is common. Companies like The Otter Guys specifically mention expertise with aging and historic homes, while Fitch Services offers expert second opinions on major projects. Video pipe inspection services from providers like Rooter Guy Plumbing can reveal hidden issues before they cause expensive damage.
While specific financing terms aren't detailed in the listings, many established plumbing companies offer financing options for major repairs or installations. Larger companies like Michael & Son Services, Robertson Electric, and W.E. Brown typically provide financing through third-party lenders for expenses like water heater replacement, sewer line repair, or whole-home repiping projects. Some companies offer seasonal promotions or maintenance plan discounts. When calling for estimates, specifically ask about financing options, payment plans, senior or military discounts, and any current promotions. Rooter Guy Plumbing explicitly mentions discounts for seniors and students. For expensive emergency repairs, many plumbers work with financing companies that offer same-day approval, allowing you to address urgent issues without delay.
For DIY plumbing projects, ALKOH Supply Inc is a woman-owned, family-operated plumbing distributor founded in 1991 that serves both licensed plumbers and DIY homeowners with high-quality materials. They hold a 4.9-star rating and specialize in plumbing supplies for residential and commercial projects. Ferguson Plumbing Supply on Garrett Street is the nation's largest distributor with a full-service Charlottesville location stocking water heaters, fixtures, pipes, and supplies—they're open Saturdays 8 AM-12 PM and serve contractors, builders, and homeowners with complex projects. Both suppliers can provide expert guidance on materials selection. For straightforward DIY repairs, standard home improvement retailers also carry basic plumbing supplies, though specialty distributors offer broader selection and professional-grade materials.