How to Hire a Plumber in Prineville, OR

Written By Scott Simonson

Finding the right plumber can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a water leak or a clogged drain that needs fixing right away. Choosing the wrong person can lead to poor work and extra costs.

Here is a simple, step-by-step guide on how to hire a reliable plumber for your home.

1. Check for Oregon Licenses (CCB and BCD)

In Oregon, state law requires plumbing businesses to hold two different types of credentials. You should never hire a plumber who cannot provide both of these numbers:

  • CCB License: The business must be licensed by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). This proves they are legally allowed to operate a trade business in the state.

  • BCD License: The specific person doing the work must hold a professional license from the Building Codes Division (BCD), such as a Journeyman Plumber license.

Tip: You can easily check if a company is active and in good standing by typing their name or license number into the official Oregon CCB License Search website before you hire them.

2. Verify Insurance, Bonds, and Workers' Comp

A licensed plumbing contractor in Oregon is required by law to carry specific protections. This ensures that you, the homeowner, are not held financially responsible if something goes wrong. Always verify they have:

  • General Liability Insurance: In Oregon, residential contractors must carry liability insurance. This protects your home and property if the plumber accidentally causes damage, like a major leak.

  • A Surety Bond: Oregon CCB licenses require a consumer protection bond. This gives you financial protection if the contractor fails to finish the job or does fraudulent work.

  • Workers’ Compensation: If the plumbing company has employees, they must carry workers' comp. This ensures that if a worker gets hurt while inside your Prineville home, their medical bills are covered by the company, not your homeowner's insurance.

3. Ask About Experience

Do not hesitate to ask how long the company has been in business. A plumbing company with years of experience in Central Oregon has a track record you can trust. It also means they are familiar with the common plumbing issues that happen in our local climate, like frozen pipes during our cold Prineville winters.

4. Get a Clear Price Estimate

Before any work starts, ask for an estimate. A good plumber will look at the problem and give you a clear breakdown of the costs.

  • Avoid plumbers who give you a firm price over the phone without seeing the issue first.

  • Ask if the estimate includes both parts and labor.

  • Find out if they charge a flat rate or an hourly fee.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Word of mouth is a great way to find local plumbing services. Look up the company on Google or Facebook to see what other people in Prineville are saying about them. Look for comments about showing up on time, honest pricing, and cleaning up after the job is done.

6. Ask About a Warranty

A reliable plumber stands behind their work. Ask if they offer a guarantee or warranty on the parts they use and the labor they provide. If something goes wrong shortly after the repair, you want to know they will come back and fix it without charging you again.

Need a Licensed Plumber in Prineville?

If you are looking for an experienced, fully licensed, and insured local plumber, we are here to help. Contact us today to ask questions or schedule an appointment for your home.



Scott Simonson