Plumbing problems always seem to show up at the worst time, like when you’re getting ready for work or hosting guests. And as soon as you spot a leak or hear an odd noise under the sink, the first question that pops into your head is, “How much does a plumber charge for one hour?” 

It’s a fair question, especially when you’re trying to budget or avoid any surprise costs. In this post, we’ll break it all down in simple terms so you’ll know what to expect and how to make smart decisions when something goes wrong at home.

According to recent research, the Canadian plumbing services market is expected to develop at a 6.3% CAGR through 2030. Alberta’s plumbing industry is estimated to reach $3.3 billion by 2025.

The Average Hourly Cost of a Plumber

Most plumbers charge between $50 and $150 per hour. That’s the national average, but it can go higher depending on where you live, when you call, and what kind of plumbing job it is. Some quick examples:

• Basic weekday service (like fixing a clogged sink): $90–$120/hour
• Emergency late-night repair (like a burst pipe at 2 a.m.): $150–$250/hour
• High-end or specialized work (like working with older or luxury homes): $130–$200/hour

Why Do Plumbers Charge That Much?

You might be wondering: “It’s just fixing a pipe. Why does it cost so much?”

Here’s a peek behind the scenes:

1. Experience & Training

A good plumber isn’t just someone who owns a wrench. They’re licensed, trained, and know how to fix problems safely, often on the first try. That’s peace of mind you’re paying for.

2. Tools & Equipment

Plumbers don’t show up empty-handed. They carry specialized tools, pipe-cutters, leak detectors, and often have replacement parts ready in the van.

Analogy: It’s like hiring a mechanic to fix your car; they bring the shop with them.

3. Problem Solving

Plumbing can be like detective work. A leak in your bathroom might be caused by something in your walls or several rooms away. You’re paying for their skill to figure it out fast.

Do Plumbers Charge By the Minute or Hour?

Most plumbers charge by the hour, not by the minute. Even if the job only takes 25 minutes, you may still be billed for a full hour (kind of like a minimum service fee). This is common, especially for small repairs.

That said, some companies offer flat rates for common jobs, for example:

• Unclogging a toilet: $100 flat fee
• Replacing a faucet: $120 flat fee
• Drain cleaning: $150–$200

Always ask if the plumber offers flat rates or packages before booking.

Where You Live Affects the Price

Just like real estate, plumbing costs vary by location.

• Big cities (like Toronto or Vancouver) tend to be more expensive because of higher demand and the cost of living.
• Smaller towns or suburbs may offer lower rates, but availability can vary.

If you’re in our service area, PipeProof keeps pricing fair, whether you’re in the city or a nearby town.

What About After-Hours or Emergency Calls?

If you’ve got a pipe bursting at night or on the weekend, expect higher rates. This is called emergency or after-hours service, and the cost can jump to $150–$250/hour.

Pro Tip: If it’s not an emergency (like a slow drip), it’s usually cheaper to book during regular weekday hours.

What’s Included in That Hour?

Great question! Your plumber’s hourly rate usually includes:

• Travel to your home
• Diagnosing the issue
• Basic tools and labour
• A temporary or permanent fix (if possible, right away)

But here’s the catch: It doesn’t always include parts or materials. So if your fix needs a new valve, faucet, or pipe section, that’ll be added to the final bill.

Helpful Tips to Save on Plumbing Costs

• Act fast: Small leaks often turn into big problems.
• Bundle tasks: Have a list of plumbing concerns? Fix them in one visit to avoid multiple call-out charges.
• Ask about flat rates: Some repairs have set prices.
• Choose licensed plumbers: They fix things right the first time, saving you money in the long run.

Final Takeaway

So, how much does a plumber charge for one hour? On average, somewhere between $75 and $150, but that number can vary depending on your location, the time of day, and the kind of repair you need. What matters most is having a trusted expert who’s upfront about pricing, shows up on time, and gets the job done right the first time.

If you’re facing a plumbing issue and want honest, no-pressure help, PipeProof is just a call or click away. We keep things simple, explain what’s happening in plain English, and only fix what needs fixing, no upsells, no guesswork. Book your service today at Pipeproof and let’s get your home back to normal, fast.