Last Updated January 29, 2022

Almost everyone can think back to a time where they’ve thought, “Oh crap, am I going to need a plumber for that?” The resounding answer to that question is most often, “YES!” Water damage can do harm to your home and end up costing you much more than an experienced plumber. The next time you’re thinking about getting some work done on your pipes or drains, consider this list of the Top Plumbers in San Francisco for all of your maintenance, repair, and installation needs. Why is this list free?

Discount Plumbing
Top Featured San Francisco Plumber
★★★★★

Discount Plumbing operates with the mission to provide quality plumbing for the health and safety of the community while focusing on doing what is best for their customer. Discount Plumbing wants to drain your sink, not your wallet, and strives to provide quality service in a timely fashion. It’s no wonder they are one of the best plumbing companies in San Francisco, as they have earned their customers’ trust and respect through quality craftsmanship and customer service. Consider Discount Plumbing for any and all of your plumbing needs.

Priding themselves on promptness and efficiency, Chosen Rooter & Plumbing will take care of all your plumbing problems without breaking the bank. Boasting a full selection of residential plumbing services, as well as commercial and restaurant work, Chosen Rooter & Plumbing is your go to for any emergency plumbing disaster. The expert plumbers at Chosen Rooter & Plumbing are qualified, background checked, and drug tested, and offer a full range of plumbing repairs, maintenance, replacements, and installation for any customer.

Fast Response Plumbing & Rooter is a full-service residential and commercial plumbing contractor in San Francisco committed to offering unmatched service at competitive prices. Fast Response provides the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment necessary to accomplish your job on time, within your specified budget, and to your total satisfaction. With the main objective of developing long-term relationships with their customers through uncompromising excellence, Fast Response Plumbing & Rooter makes every effort to be approachable, honest, and dependable. Whatever your plumbing needs, you can rely on Fast Response Plumbing and Rooter to be on time and provide fair and straightforward service.

Kenneth Asire Plumbing in San Francisco, California is dedicated to resolving all of your plumbing concerns. With effective methods  to fix and prevent leaks and blockages in your pipes and drainage system, and fixtures. plumbers will go above and beyond to get you your peace of mind back. Their team of expert plumbing technicians, led by owner Kenneth Asire, is dedicated to taking care of all your plumbing needs. Not only does Kenneth Asire offer maintenance and repair of existing systems, they will install new ones as well. Consider Kenneth Asire Plumbing if you’re looking for amazing services at a reasonable price.

De Jager and Reilly Plumbing and Heating has been offering great services to their clients in San Francisco since 1963 with a high level of professionalism that has come to set them apart. As a plumbing company that specializes in servicing and repair as well as other heating services, The De Jager family is committed to offering high-quality solutions at an accessible price. After emigrating from Holland with his wife Maria in 1963, Leendert “Leo” De Jager founded his company  on the foundation of providing honest, dependable, and neighborly service. These values continue to drive this company forward to this day.

Pipeline Plumbing
#4 of 21 Best Plumbers San Francisco
★★★★★

Established in 2011, Pipeline Plumbing has grown from helping friends and family and some select accounts to proudly serving numerous residential clients and businesses across San Francisco. Having serviced some of the city’s oldest buildings as well as many modern residences, Pipeline Plumbing aims to exceed your expectations with their service. Offering professional, insured plumbers with years of knowledge and expertise gained through innumerable jobs, Pipeline Plumbing absolutely stands behind their work.

Ace Plumbing & Rooter is delighted to be celebrating more than two decades of service in the San Francisco Bay Area, providing superior plumbing, sewer, and water heater solutions to residential and business clients alike. Covering all areas in San Francisco and surrounding cities, Ace Plumbing guarantees a seamless, superior approach that delivers on precisely what you need, without any added crap. As a Diamond Certified company since 2007, Ace Plumbing & Rooter has earned some of the highest customer service satisfaction ratings across the entire city. Ace Plumbing is available 24/7 to provide free estimates, so consider them for any of your plumbing needs.

One Source Plumbing and Rooter, Inc. is a full-service plumbing company serving residential and commercial clients throughout the San Francisco Peninsula. This organization is equipped and trained to build and repair various sorts of plumbing systems, and its professionals are accessible 24 hours a day to assist with emergencies. According to owner Mostafa Sowadah, One Source Plumbing and Rooter’s sustained success is due in large part to its customer-oriented approach to plumbing, and because One Source Plumbing and Rooter is committed to providing “long-term solutions” that extend the life of its clients’ plumbing systems. 

Heise’s Plumbing has been happily servicing San Francisco since 1954. Offering inexpensive, upfront pricing for all of your plumbing needs, Heise’s continues to make the customer their primary concern. Heise’s Plumbing specializes in water heaters, leaks, faucets, toilets, gas pipelines, showers, bathtubs, and sinks, as well as sewage and drain cleaning, and have extensive experience with both residential and commercial plumbing work.

If you have more upscale, premium plumbing needs, or want to combine the design and build pieces together with one company, then look no further than Lutz Plumbing Inc. As a family owned and operated operated business servicing San Francisco since 1929, Lutz Plumbing Inc. has been earning the trust of their customers through superior craftsmanship and strong values. If this is any indication, Lutz is the only plumbing company in the entire Bay Area with an adjacent decorative plumbing and hardware showroom.

What sets Genteel apart from other plumbers is our their price structure. Genteel Plumbers do not charge an hourly rate, but rather use a pre-determined pricing system so you no exactly what you’ll pay before they begin any work. Sounds great, right?! On top of that, Genteel will price match any other quote you get from any other plumber. However, they stand behind the quality of their plumbing services too, deploying cutting-edge technologies and eco-friendly practices and products to ensure they are contributing to the planets health, not demise.

Magic Plumbing
#10 of 21 Top-Notch Plumbers San Francisco
★★★★★

Since the late 1970’s, Magic Plumbing has been offering quality plumbing services to the residents of San Francisco. Their plumbers, who specialize in drain cleaning as well as plumbing repairs and installs, are here to ensure that all of your plumbing queries are handled honestly and with integrity. At Magic Plumbing, they fully guarantee that they will unclog your drain so that you are left completely satisfied. If your drain clogs again within 30 days after using their services, they will return and repair it free of charge.

Master Plumbing
#11 of 21 Top San Francisco Plumber
★★★★★

Since 1985, Meir “the Master Plumber” Steinberg has owned and maintained his own modest plumbing business in San Francisco. With more than three decades of experience working to provide plumbing services in the city, Master Plumber has earned a reputation for providing some of the highest-quality customer service and solution-oriented expertise in the business. As a perfectionist who refuses to take shortcuts, Meir is present on every job, known for resolving complicated problems where others have failed.

Cabrillo has been offering excellent plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and drain cleaning services to clients in San Francisco, San Mateo, Palo Alto, and the surrounding areas since 1961. Their bright red trucks, branded with “The People You Want in Your Home,” can be spotted all throughout SF, the Peninsula, and East Bay. Their plumbers and HVAC specialists have been hand-selected to deliver the highest quality plumbing and heating service and installs. When you contact Cabrillo, they will work with you to arrange a time that is convenient for you. They can give you a two- or three-hour window and will always call prior to arriving at your home.

A.B. Plumbing, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, was founded in 2003 by industry veterans with more than 15 years of expertise. Taking pride in their skilled and competent plumbers, as well as their commitment to maintaining high standards, A.B. Plumbing is one of the most trustworthy and dependable plumbing options in San Francisco. With the objective of developing long-term relationships via superior craftsmanship and an unmatched attention to detail, A.B. Plumbing can take care of all your plumbing needs.

Performance Plumbing has established themselves as one of the most trusted plumbing companies across the entire Bay Area through offering superior services to satisfied clients for 13 years. Along with providing superior service, homeowners may have peace of mind knowing that the fully licensed and certified crew at Performance Plumbing is there to respond quickly to any plumbing problem, day or night, 24 hours. Whether your plumbing difficulties are severe and demand immediate attention or are more long-term in nature, contact Performance Plumbing immediately to ensure that your plumbing requirements are met as soon as possible.

Atlas Plumbing and Rooter has been cleaning San Francisco’s drains for a long, long time. Atlas takes their work, their safety, and the quality of the service they provide extremely seriously. They will promptly detect the correct problem and get to work, which results in increased efficiency and saves money for their clients. Keep Atlas Plumbing and Rooter in mind while looking for a top-notch San Francisco plumber.

Dedicated to delivering the highest quality service, installation, and repair for all of their clients’ plumbing needs, Advantage Plumbing SF takes pleasure in the attention to detail that goes into each project they take on. Advantage Plumbing is well-known for their high-quality work and business ethics, and they look forward to developing long-lasting relationships with their clients. With fully certified and highly qualified plumbers, APSF has acquired the reputation as being one of SF’s most trusted plumbers, and look forward to winning your business.

Advanced Plumbing & Drain specializes in odd jobs; plumbing work that requires something new and unique. For more than 10 years, Advanced Plumbing & Drain has been satisfying their clients through extensive plumbing solutions, with years of experience working in new construction and remodel environments. Advanced Plumbing & Drain is committed to completing tasks correctly the first time and to exceeding their clients’ expectations. Their full-service plumbing firm provides plumbing services across the San Francisco Bay Area, including San Francisco, Burlingame, and San Mateo.

R&L Plumbing
#18 of 21 Leading San Francisco Plumber
★★★★

R & L Plumbing has been providing plumbing services to property managers and commercial clients for over 25 years. Trinity Properties, The Academy of Art, Azari Property Management, and SC Properties are just a few of their current and former clients. R & L Plumbing takes care of their employees so that you don’t have to (read: they won’t run up the price on you for their own commission), and you can feel confident that their plumbers are forthright, honest, and dependable. R & L serves the whole city of San Francisco and oversees the plumbing for more than 2,000 downtown structures. They are a family-owned business that takes prides themselves in consistently producing high-quality results.

Prompt Plumbing
#19 of 21 Top-Notch Emergency Plumbing Services in SF
★★★★

Since 1981, Prompt Plumbing has been collaborating with commercial contractors and residential property managers, garnering a reputation as a dependable and high-quality plumber. Prompt Plumbing is fully licensed, insured, and bonded and their plumbers possess a tough work ethic and an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. They have a professional staff comprised of highly skilled plumbers that services the entire San Francisco Bay Area, including the East, North, and South Bays. Prompt Plumbing is prepared to take on any project.

For more than a century, Malcolm Plumbing & Mechanical has provided dependable service in San Francisco, offering plumbing services, water heater installation, and drain cleaning. Specializing in residential as well as commercial plumbing projects, Malcolm Plumbing and Mechanical, provides comprehensive plumbing inspections, repairs, replacements, and installations. Their highly qualified plumbers can assist you with a leaking bathroom faucet, a sewer backup, or a complete kitchen redesign. No project is too big or too small for their team of experienced plumbers, who are BBB accredited and fully licensed and insured.

In & Out Plumbing is a well-known plumbing business with years of expertise serving the San Francisco Bay Area. Their 24-hour emergency plumbers provide affordable services to residential and business customers. In & Out Plumbing employs a staff of highly qualified plumbers that deliver superior plumbing services at competitive pricing for long-term, effective solutions.

WHY THIS LIST IS FREE TO USE

The above list includes Plumbers In SF that SFist believes actively provides superior services. In some cases, they are among the most successful teams in San Francisco. In some cases, variable, sponsorship listing fees or commissions effect the ranking position of the teams, but every one has a history of providing great services. To learn more about SFist’s classifieds listings read more here.

SFist / Best of San Francisco / 23 Best Plumbers In SF

The post 21+ Finest SF Plumbers for Repairs, Upkeep, and Installs appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Plumbers in San Francisco can help you address common plumbing problems, like leaky faucets and clogged drains. These contracts can also perform regular maintenance to keep your plumbing system in tiptop shape.

We compared the top platforms to find plumbers in San Francisco, starting with our top pick Networx. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or searching for plumbers in San Francisco for the first time, this guide will empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your plumbing needs.

Finding the Best Plumbers in San Francisco

• Networx – Top platform for finding plumbers in San Francisco
• Thumbtack – Best for affordability
• TaskRabbit – Best for minor plumbing issues

1. Networx – Top Platform for Finding Plumbers in San Francisco 

Pros:

• Helpful Cost Guide: The website features a handy service cost guide.
• Contractor Profiles: The platform allows contractors to create profiles to showcase their services
• 24/7 Services: It is the go-to option, with appointments available around the clock
• Transparent Pricing: Customers appreciate Networx for its upfront and transparent pricing, minimizing surprises

Cons:

• Appointment Scheduling Delays: Some users mention delays in scheduling appointments, which could be inconvenient for urgent matters

Why Choose Networx?

Networx is our top choice if you need plumbers in San Francisco, with an extensive network of professionals. With upfront pricing and a selection of plumbing services, Networx stands out as a reliable, trustworthy option for homeowners in the city.

Services Offered

Networx connects customers with plumbers offering a comprehensive range of services. These include full-service repairs and installations, remodeling and renovation services, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, water heater installation and repair, gas line repair and installation, and leak detection and repairs.

Contacts

The platform’s user-friendly website and mobile apps facilitate seamless communication with contractors. Customer support is available via the online form on the official website, email, phone, and its Georgia-based office.

Summary

Networx is a top choice if you’re on the lookout to connect with plumbers in San Francisco that can help you with your project or repairs. Networx connects you with contractors who can perform repairs, installations, remodeling projects, and more*.

2. Thumbtack – Best for Affordable Plumbers in San Francisco

Pros:

• Competitive Pricing: Comparing quotes from multiple plumbers ensures you get the best deal for smaller jobs
• Convenience and Ease of Use: The user-friendly platform simplifies the process of finding and hiring a plumber
• Transparency: Access to plumber profiles and reviews helps you make informed decisions
• Wide Range of Services: Thumbtack covers various plumbing needs, from faucet repairs to appliance installation and repair

Cons:

• Mixed Reviews on Several Contractors: While many customers praise the platform’s convenience, there are mixed reviews regarding several contractors and pricing quotes

Why Choose Thumbtack?

Thumbtack is a top pick for those seeking budget-friendly plumbers in San Francisco. Its competitive pricing model and user-friendly interface streamlines the search process. The company grants flexibility to customers through its broad range of plumbing solutions.

Services Offered

The platform provides various plumbing services, including faucet, toilet, sink, and drain repairs, garbage disposal installation, as well as water heater installation and repair. There are also plumbers who can handle appliance installations and repairs. Additionally, some contractors may offer specialized services as seen in their profiles.

Contacts

Thumbtack simplifies communication between users and plumbers in San Francisco on its website. Users can discuss project details, ask questions, and receive quotes effortlessly through the Thumbtack platform. Aside from the official website, customer support is available via email, phone, and the Utah-based office.

Summary

Thumbtack emerges as the go-to platform for budget-conscious customers who prefer affordable services by plumbers in San Francisco. It caters to homeowners looking for competitive prices through its user-friendly interface that facilitates easy comparison of quotes and reviews from multiple plumbers.
 

3. TaskRabbit – Best for Minor Plumbing Issues

Pros:

• Speed and Convenience: TaskRabbit’s on-demand service allows users to find and book a handyman for quick fixes
• Flexibility: Perfect for minor tasks like installing fixtures or fixing minor leaks
• Affordability for Small Jobs: Taskers often offer lower rates than traditional plumbers

Cons:

• Limitations for Complex Issues: While suitable for minor tasks, complex plumbing issues may require better expertise

Why Choose TaskRabbit?

TaskRabbit addresses minor plumbing issues through its network of Taskers. The platform allows homeowners to find and book a handyman for quick fixes. It emphasizes speed and convenience, making it ideal for tasks like installing fixtures or fixing minor leaks at more affordable rates than traditional plumbers in San Francisco

Services Offered

TaskRabbit features various Taskers ready to take on minor plumbing repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets or installing fixtures. Additionally, Taskers can handle tasks like mounting and installing fixtures, caulking, and sealing around sinks and bathtubs. While some Taskers may offer specialized services, they may not be able to address complex plumbing issues.

Contacts

TaskRabbit streamlines communication between users and contractors through its dedicated website. Additionally, you can get in touch with the support team through its email address, phone number, and its office located in San Francisco, California.

Summary

TaskRabbit stands out because of its on-demand service, providing quick fixes for minor plumbing issues in San Francisco. Homeowners can find and book local handymen within minutes and attend to simple plumbing problems through this convenient platform.

>>Find the best plumbers in San Francisco at TaskRabbit

Why You Need Reliable Plumbers in San Francisco

Whether it’s an emergency repair or routine maintenance, having a dependable plumber ready to face the challenge is crucial for ensuring the longevity and functionality of your plumbing system.

Prompt and Efficient Repairs

When plumbing issues arise, speedy and systematic repairs are essential to prevent further damage. A skilled plumber understands the urgency of repairs and can quickly diagnose and address issues such as leaks, burst pipes, or faulty fixtures. Timely repairs can help you save money and contribute to your home’s overall safety and integrity.

Knowledge of Local Plumbing Systems

San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods often mean different plumbing systems and challenges. A proficient plumber with local experience understands these nuances and may provide a more accurate diagnosis as well as efficient resolutions.

Compliance With San Francisco Codes

San Francisco has specific plumbing codes and regulations that must be followed during installations and repairs. A professional plumber is well-versed in these codes, ensuring that any work carried out on your plumbing system is compliant.

Long-Term Maintenance Solutions

Beyond quick fixes, a top-notch plumber offers long-term maintenance solutions. An experienced contractor can provide insights on how to prevent recurring issues and offer guidance on maintaining your plumbing system to extend its lifespan.

Reliable Emergency Services

Plumbing emergencies can happen anytime, and having a plumber you can rely on 24/7 is crucial. A dependable plumber provides prompt and effective services to minimize damage and inconvenience.

Common Plumbing Problems in San Francisco

San Francisco certainly has specific plumbing challenges for homeowners, and understanding these common issues is essential for proactive maintenance and repairs.

Hard Water Issues

San Francisco is known for its hard water, which can lead to mineral buildup in pipes and fixtures. A plumber can install water softeners or recommend solutions to mitigate the effects of hard water on your plumbing system.

Leaky Faucets and Fixtures

Dripping faucets and fixtures are common plumbing problems that, if left unattended, can lead to water wastage and increased utility bills. It’s essential to identify and repair leaks quickly.

Clogged Drains and Toilets

The city’s older infrastructure can contribute to issues like clogged drains and toilets. A skilled plumber has the tools and expertise to unclog pipes, preventing backups.

Sewer Line Blockages

Sewer line blockages can cause significant issues, including unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.

Water Heater Problems

Water heaters are crucial for comfort, ensuring a consistent hot water supply. However, a range of issues may arise, and most plumbers are equipped to tackle water heater repairs.

Tips for Hiring the Best Plumbers in San Francisco

Plumbers in San Francisco can help protect your house from water damage. Choose the right plumber by following these tips.

Get Referrals From Local Sources

Start by seeking recommendations from neighbors, friends, or local online communities. Personal referrals provide valuable insights into a plumber’s reputation and quality of service.

Research Multiple Plumbing Companies

Research multiple plumbing companies, read reviews, and compare their services and pricing to find the best fit for your needs. 

Check Credentials and Certifications

Verify that the plumber is licensed and certified to work in San Francisco. This guarantees that the contractor has the necessary expertise to meet the city’s plumbing regulations.

Ask For Detailed Estimates

Before hiring a plumber, request for detailed estimates outlining the labor cost, materials, and any potential additional charges. Clear communication on pricing can help you avoid surprises.

Seek Transparent Communication

A professional plumber must maintain open and transparent communication. The contractor should be willing to answer your questions, explain the proposed solutions, and keep you informed throughout the process.

>>Find plumbers in San Francisco with Networx

Emergency Plumbing Services in San Francisco

Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, requiring immediate attention. Plumbers offer a range of emergency services to address urgent issues and prevent further damage.

• Burst Pipe Repair: A swift response to burst pipes minimizes water damage and prevents potential structural issues.
• Emergency Leak Detection: Rapid detection and repair of leaks can help reduce water wastage and property damage.
• Sewer Line Cleaning: Urgent cleaning of sewer lines to address blockages and prevent backups.
• Water Heater Repairs: Immediate repairs to ensure a continuous supply of hot water, especially during colder seasons.

Benefits of Regular Plumbing Maintenance in San Francisco

Here are some of the significant benefits of availing the services of plumbers in San Francisco.

Prevention of Major Issues

Scheduled maintenance allows plumbers to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into costly problems. This proactive approach can help homeowners save money in the long run.

Improved Water Quality

Regular maintenance includes cleaning and inspecting pipes and improving water quality by removing sediment and mineral buildup.

Longevity of Plumbing Systems

Routine maintenance may extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. By addressing minor issues promptly, you can avoid premature wear and tear on pipes, fixtures, and appliances.

Cost Savings on Repairs

Investing in regular maintenance is a cost-effective strategy. It helps you avoid expensive repairs by addressing small issues early.

Enhanced Property Value

A well-maintained plumbing system adds value to your property. Regular maintenance ensures that your home’s plumbing meets high standards, contributing to property value.

Plumbing Regulations and Permits in San Francisco

Following plumbing regulations and getting the necessary permits is crucial for ensuring the safety and legality of plumbing work in San Francisco. Licensed plumbers play a vital role in complying with these regulations.

Important plumbing regulations and permits include:

• San Francisco Plumbing Code: Adherence to the local plumbing code is mandatory for all plumbing work in the city.
• Building Permits: Certain plumbing projects, such as major installations or renovations, may require permits.
• Inspections: San Francisco mandates inspections for various plumbing projects to verify compliance with codes and regulations.

What Are the Different Types of Plumbing in My House?

Here are the primary types of plumbing in your home:

• Water supply lines: Responsible for bringing clean, potable water into your home, these pipes connect to fixtures such as faucets and toilets, and appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. Common materials for supply lines are copper, PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene), and CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride).
• DWV system: Crucial for removing wastewater and sewage from your home, it consists of pipes that carry used water away from fixtures and appliances, preventing the buildup of waste. Key components of the DWV system include drain pipes, waste pipes, and vent pipes.
• Gas lines: These pipes bring gas to home appliances such as stoves and water heaters.

Questions to Ask Best Plumbers in San Francisco

Here are some of the things you can ask when interviewing plumbers in San Francisco:

Are You Licensed and Insured?

Ensure that the plumber holds a valid license and insurance, providing protection in case of accidents or damage during their work.

What Plumbing Services Do You Offer?

Clarify the range of services that each plumber provides. Some may specialize in certain areas, so confirming they can meet your needs is essential.

Can You Provide References or Past Work Examples?

Ask for references or examples of past work to gauge the plumber’s expertise and the quality of the contractor’s services.

What Is Your Pricing Structure?

Understanding the plumber’s pricing structure, including labor, materials, and potential additional charges, helps you avoid getting surprised by the final bill.

How Quickly Can You Respond to Emergencies?

For emergency situations, inquire about the plumber’s response time. A prompt response is crucial to minimize damage in such circumstances.

Our Selection Criteria for Top Platforms Featuring the Best Plumbers in San Francisco

Choosing the right platform that can assist you in finding the right plumber involves considering various factors to ensure you receive reliable and high-quality services.

Availability

We prioritize platforms with plumbers who offer prompt and flexible scheduling, making sure that they can address your plumbing needs in a timely manner.

Qualifications

Licensed and certified plumbers in San Francisco guarantee the necessary qualifications and expertise to meet the unique plumbing challenges of your home.

Reputation

We consider the reputation of plumbing companies available based on user reviews, testimonials, and their overall standing in the local community.

Experience

Platforms featuring plumbers in San Francisco with a proven track record in handling diverse plumbing issues are prioritized for their ability to provide effective solutions.

Professionalism

We assessed the professionalism of available plumbers in San Francisco. We considered factors such as communication on the platform, general punctuality, and overall customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Plumbers in San Francisco

Here are some frequently asked questions about dealing with plumbing issues and hiring plumbers in San Francisco

Can I Repair My Own Plumbing?

While some minor plumbing repairs can be tackled by homeowners with basic DIY skills, it’s crucial to recognize the limits of your expertise. Simple tasks like fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain may be within reach. However, major issues such as burst pipes, sewer line problems, or water heater malfunctions require professional attention. 

Do Plumbers in San Francisco Handle Water Heater Repair?

Yes, most professional plumbers are well-equipped to handle water heater repairs. Whether you’re dealing with a lack of hot water, strange noises coming from the tank, or a water heater leak, a licensed plumber has the expertise to diagnose and address these issues. 

>>Find plumbers in San Francisco with Networx

How Often Should I Replace the Plumbing in My House?

The lifespan of your plumbing system depends on various factors, like the materials used, maintenance practices, and the local water quality. Generally, copper pipes can last 50 years and galvanized steel pipes from 20 to 50 years. If your home has older pipes, consider a replacement and upgrading to modern materials to enhance efficiency and prevent issues..

Can I Hire Emergency Plumbing Services?

Yes. Many plumbing companies offer emergency services to address urgent issues requiring immediate attention. Emergency plumbing situations include burst pipes, severe leaks, sewer backups, or water heater malfunctions. Emergency plumbers in San Francisco are available 24/7 to respond to these critical situations to restore the functionality of your plumbing system.

What Do I Do If My Sewer Backs Up?

A sewer backup is a serious plumbing issue that requires immediate attention. If you notice multiple drains clogging simultaneously or hear gurgling noises from your plumbing fixtures, it may indicate a sewer line blockage. Contact a licensed plumber immediately for a thorough inspection and efficient problem resolution.

Do Plumbers in San Francisco Work on Gas Lines?

Yes, some licensed plumbers are qualified to work on gas lines. Handling gas lines requires specific expertise to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Whether you need a new gas line installed for a stove or dealing with a gas leak, hiring a professional plumber with the necessary credentials is essential.

Final Thoughts on the Best Plumbers in San Francisco

Finding the right plumbers in San Francisco is paramount to repairing and maintaining your plumbing system. Platforms like Networx make it easier for you to hire contractors who can help you with plumbing issues and projects.

We hope our guide has empowered homeowners like you to decide which platform can help you find the best plumbers in San Francisco for your individual needs.

*Upon application, customer information will be submitted to Networx and Networx Buyers and users are consenting to contact by Networx, Networx Buyers and any other service professionals via calls, texts, and emails using artificial voice calls, pre-recorded calls, or calls placed with the assistance of auto-dialer technology at the telephone number and email address provided. Such consent is not a condition of purchasing any property, goods or services.

SPONSORED ADVERTISING CONTENT

This content was provided by our sponsor, General Fanager. The FOX editorial team was not involved in the creation of this content.

The post Greatest Plumbers in San Francisco of 2024: Plumbing Companies & Repairs appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Got a plumbing emergency in San Francisco and don’t know who to call? We’ve all been there. A burst pipe or a major leak can be a real headache and needs quick action to stop water damage. But finding a reliable plumber, especially one who can rush over in an emergency, is another problem. 

We’ve checked out the top online platforms where you can find emergency plumbers in San Francisco, starting with Networx. So, sit tight and read on to find out who can help when the pipes start acting up.

Emergency Plumbing in San Francisco

• Networx – Connect to a network of plumbers in San Francisco
• Thumbtack – Best for accurate quotes
• Taskrabbit – Best for availability and quick task completion

We start this overview with the intricacies of each platform housing plumbers, looking to help make informed decisions when urgency strikes. As we explore Networx, Thumbtack, and TaskRabbit, you’ll gain valuable info on their features, advantages, and considerations.

1. Networx – Connect To a Network of Plumbers in San Francisco

Pros:

• Large network of plumbers
• 24/7 availability through some plumbers for urgent needs
• Comprehensive range of services, from clogged drains to emergency repairs
• Offers cost guide to estimate project expenses
• Custom contractor profile

Cons:

• Pricing transparency may not apply to all services

Why Choose Networx?

Networx stands out as the go-to platform for finding a plumber in San Francisco due to its extensive network. With a large pool of plumbers, Networx significantly boosts your chances of securing assistance promptly, even during peak hours. Some plumbers are available 24/7 and may offer a reliable solution for urgent needs.

Services Offered

Networx covers a comprehensive range of plumbing services in San Francisco, as plumbers on the platform can offer the following services including:

• Clogged drains and toilets
• Leaky pipes and faucets
• Water heater repair and replacement
• Garbage disposal repair and installation
• Sewer line repairs
• Gas line repair and installation

Contacts

Networx facilitates communication between users and contractors through its online platform. Users can describe their emergency plumbing needs, receive quotes, and discuss details directly with contractors. For additional assistance, users can reach Networx customer support through:

• Website: https://www.networx.com/
• Email: Use the online form on the website
• Phone: (888) 612-8043

Summary

Networx is our top choice for finding a plumber in San Francisco for your emergency project. It boasts a large network of professionals.*

2. Thumbtack – Best for Accurate Quotes

Pros:

• Detailed project posting system leads to accurate quotes
• Readily available reviews from past customers
• Convenient mobile app for managing plumbing needs on the go
• Wide coverage of common and emergency plumbing needs

Cons:

• Potential for miscommunication due to reliance on customer project descriptions

Why Choose Thumbtack?

Thumbtack is a solid pick for emergency plumbing needs offering a detailed project posting system and accurate quotes. This approach ensures that plumbers with the right expertise and tools are attracted to specific projects. It also offers a convenient mobile app and readily available contractor reviews.

Services Offered

Thumbtack covers a wide range of standard and emergency plumbing needs. It often caters to more specialized or unique projects due to the detailed project descriptions provided by users. Users post what they need and get recommendations on plumbers dealing with minor and complex issues. 

Contacts

Thumbtack encourages direct communication between users and contractors. Detailed project descriptions help set clear expectations, and users can discuss project details directly. Thumbtack’s customer support is available through:

• Website: https://www.thumbtack.com/
• Email: Use the ticket system through the Help Center
• Phone: (866) 501-5809

Summary

Thumbtack offers a reliable solution for finding your emergency plumber in San Francisco, leveraging a detailed project posting system to ensure accurate quotes. The platform’s apps enhance user convenience with efficient plumbing services.

3. Taskrabbit – Best for Availability and Quick Task Completion

Pros:

• Emphasis on speed and flexibility for urgent plumbing
• Fastest response time for immediate attention
• Hourly rates, non-traditional project capabilities for flexible service
• User-friendly interface for easy plumber booking

Cons:

• Plumbers may not always be equipped for complex or major emergencies

Why Choose Taskrabbit?

Taskrabbit emphasizes speed and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for urgent plumbing needs. The platform prioritizes connecting users with readily available plumbers in their area. This ensures the fastest possible response time with many Taskers ready to tackle non-traditional projects.

Services Offered

Taskrabbit focuses on smaller, quicker plumbing jobs such as drain cleaning, faucet repair, and appliance installation. However, it may not always have plumbers equipped for complex plumbing emergencies.

Contacts

Taskrabbit facilitates communication through its user-friendly interface, where users discuss project details with plumbers to ensure their needs are understood and met. Users can also contact Taskrabbit through:

• Website: https://www.taskrabbit.com/
• Email: Use the online form on the website
• Phone: (844) 340-8275

Summary

Taskrabbit is a great choice for people seeking immediate availability and quick task completion for urgent plumbing needs. With a focus on speed, flexibility, and a user-friendly interface, Taskrabbit offers a hassle-free solution for simple tasks and smaller plumbing jobs.

>>Find emergency plumbers using Taskrabbit

Why You Need a Professional Emergency Plumber in San Francisco

Plumbing emergencies can strike unexpectedly, causing stress and potential damage to your property. This section delves into why seeking a professional emergency plumber in San Francisco is crucial for effective solutions.

Expertise in Critical Situations

Having a professional plumber on hand can make all the difference when facing a plumbing emergency. They are trained to handle critical situations with precision and efficiency. Plus, their extensive knowledge allows them to assess and address the problem.

Quick Response and Efficient Solutions

In emergencies, time is of the essence. An emergency plumber in San Francisco will understand the situation’s urgency and be equipped to respond swiftly. Their efficiency minimizes the immediate damage and prevents potential long-term consequences.

Minimizing Risks and Further Damage

Attempting to handle plumbing emergencies without professional assistance can lead to unintended consequences. A qualified emergency plumber in San Francisco minimizes risks by implementing proper safety measures and using the right tools.

How to Find the Best San Francisco Emergency Plumbing Companies

Choosing the right emergency plumber in San Francisco is crucial for promptly and effectively resolving your plumbing issues. This section provides guidance on selecting the best professionals for your needs.

Seek Recommendations

Word of mouth remains a powerful tool when seeking reliable emergency plumbing services. Reach out to friends, family, or neighbors who have experienced plumbing emergencies in San Francisco. Their recommendations can provide valuable insights into companies’ responsiveness, professionalism, and effectiveness.

Check Licensing and Insurance

Ensuring that the emergency plumbing company is licensed and insured is paramount. A valid license demonstrates that the company meets industry standards and regulations. Meanwhile, insurance protects you and the plumber in case of accidents or damages during the repair process.

24/7 Availability

Emergencies don’t adhere to a schedule, and neither should your emergency plumber. Look for an emergency plumber in San Francisco that offers 24/7 availability. This ensures that help is just a phone call away, regardless of when a plumbing crisis occurs.

Response Time

Prompt response time is critical during plumbing emergencies. A reputable emergency plumber in San Francisco prioritizes quick turnaround times to minimize damage. Check customer reviews to gauge the typical response times of different companies.

Range of Services

The best emergency plumber in San Francisco offers a comprehensive range of services. From common issues like clogged drains to more complex problems like burst pipes, a versatile plumbing service can handle any emergency.

Warranty and Guarantees

A reliable emergency plumbing service stands behind its work. Inquire about warranties and guarantees on the services provided. This means if problems persist following the initial repair, they will be promptly addressed without extra costs.

Emergency Preparedness

Evaluate the level of emergency preparedness demonstrated by a plumbing company. This includes having the necessary tools, equipment, and a well-trained team to respond to emergencies. Plumbers prioritizing emergency preparedness are better equipped to handle various plumbing issues efficiently.

>>Find an emergency plumber in San Francisco at Networx

Home Plumbing System Water Leaks

Plumbing system leaks can cause significant damage to your home if not addressed promptly, and this section explores the most common types of leaks and how to handle them.

Toilet Leaks

Toilet leaks are not only a nuisance but can also waste a substantial amount of water. Common causes include faulty flappers, damaged fill valves, or loose connections.

To address toilet leaks, consider replacing the flapper, adjusting the fill valve, or tightening loose connections. If the issue persists, professional assistance is recommended to prevent further damage.

Outdoor Leaks

Leaks in outdoor plumbing, such as in garden hoses, sprinkler systems, or outdoor faucets, can go unnoticed, leading to water wastage and damage to the landscape. Regularly inspect outdoor plumbing for leaks and promptly repair any issues.

Professional plumbers can assess the entire outdoor plumbing system to ensure efficient water usage and prevent potential leaks.

Faucet Leaks

A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it can waste significant water over time and increase your water bill. Worn-out washers, O-rings, or damaged valves often cause faucet leaks. DIY fixes like replacing washers may solve the issue. That said, it’s advisable to consult a professional plumber and address the root cause.

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent extensive water damage. Shut off the water supply to the affected area and contact a professional emergency plumber in San Francisco. 

While waiting for assistance, use towels or buckets to contain the water and minimize damage to your home. Burst pipes demand swift action, and professional plumbers are equipped to provide the necessary repairs.

Water Heater Leaks

Leaking water heaters can damage property and pose safety risks. If you notice water around your water heater, turn off the power supply or gas and the water supply.

Addressing water heater leaks requires specialized knowledge, so seeking assistance to diagnose and repair the issue is advisable.

Tips for Handling Plumbing Emergencies Before Professional Help Arrives

While waiting for professional assistance during a plumbing emergency, taking immediate action and implementing temporary fixes can help. This section provides practical tips for homeowners facing crises.

Immediate Actions for Damage Control

When confronted with a plumbing emergency, swift action is crucial to minimize damage. Shut off the water supply to the affected area or the entire house, depending on the severity of the issue. Locate and turn off the main water valve to prevent further water flow.

If the emergency involves a specific appliance or fixture, such as a burst pipe or a malfunctioning water heater, shut off the water supply to that appliance.

Temporary Fixes to Mitigate Issues

Consider implementing temporary fixes while waiting for a professional emergency plumber in San Francisco. For minor leaks, use plumbing tape or pipe clamps to secure the area temporarily. Placing buckets or towels can help contain water and prevent it from spreading.

Safety Precautions and Protocols

Prioritize safety during plumbing emergencies. If electrical appliances or components are involved, turn off the power to prevent electrical hazards. Exercise caution when dealing with water near electrical outlets or appliances.

For gas-powered water heaters or appliances, turn off the gas supply and ventilate the area if gas odors are present. If uncertain about safety protocols, evacuate the area and wait for professional guidance.

Costs Associated With Emergency Plumbing in San Francisco

Understanding the potential costs associated with emergency plumbing services in San Francisco is essential for budgeting and making informed decisions. Below are typical costs and brief explanations for each:

• Service Call Fee: Plumbing companies charge this standard fee for dispatching a plumber to your location. It covers the plumber’s travel expenses and the initial assessment of the plumbing issue.
• Hourly Rates: Many emergency plumbers charge by the hour for their services. The hourly rate typically includes the plumber’s labor, expertise, and the use of tools or equipment.
• Materials and Parts: The cost of materials and replacement parts, such as pipes, fittings, or fixtures, is typically added to the hourly rate. The type and quantity of materials required depend on the nature and extent of the plumbing repair.
• Emergency or After-Hours Surcharge: Emergency plumbing services often incur additional fees for after-hours or urgent responses. This surcharge compensates for the immediate attention provided outside regular business hours.
• Diagnostic Fee: Some plumbers may charge a separate diagnostic fee for identifying the cause of the plumbing issue. Diagnostic fees are distinct from the service call fee and cover the plumber’s time and expertise in diagnosing the problem.

Selection Criteria

Choosing the right emergency plumber in San Francisco involves considering various factors to ensure a reliable and efficient service. This section outlines key selection criteria for homeowners seeking emergency assistance.

Offers a Website

A reputable emergency plumbing service typically has a professional and informative website. A well-designed website demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing clear information about its services and expertise.

Hours of Operation

Emergency plumbing issues can arise anytime, so selecting a service with extended hours of operation or 24/7 availability is crucial. Plumbing companies that offer round-the-clock services prioritize customer convenience. Plus, they are usually better equipped to handle urgent situations.

Ratio of Complaints to Reviews

Researching customer reviews and complaints provides insights into the overall satisfaction of previous clients. Assessing the ratio of complaints to positive reviews helps gauge the reliability and professionalism of the emergency plumbing service.

Response Time

Prompt response time is a critical factor in emergency plumbing situations. Evaluate customer reviews to find the typical response time of the plumbing service. Companies that consistently provide quick responses demonstrate a commitment to addressing emergencies.

>>Find an emergency plumber in San Francisco at Networx

Frequently Asked Questions

Need help finding an emergency plumber in San Francisco? Consult our list of easy-to-digest answers to common questions.

When Should You Call an Emergency Plumber?

You should call an emergency plumber when you encounter sudden and severe plumbing issues that require immediate attention. Examples include burst pipes, major leaks, and sewage backups.

How Much Does Toilet Repair Cost?

The cost of toilet repair can vary depending on the nature and extent of the issue. On average, toilet repair costs in San Francisco can range from $75 to $200 for minor fixes and $200 to $700 for more complex repairs.

Do Emergency Plumbers in San Francisco Operate on Holidays or Weekends?

Yes, many emergency plumbers in San Francisco operate on holidays and weekends. 

Do Plumbers Work on the Weekend?

Yes, many plumbers work on the weekend. Some may have reduced availability, while others may charge higher rates during weekends.

What Constitutes a Plumbing Emergency?

A plumbing emergency involves sudden and severe issues that require immediate attention to prevent damage or hazards. An emergency plumber in San Francisco may help with burst pipes, major leaks, sewer backups, and/or gas leaks.

Are There Preventive Measures to Avoid Plumbing Emergencies?

Yes, several preventive measures can help avoid plumbing emergencies. These include:

• Regular maintenance
• Timely repairs of minor issues
• Proper disposal practices
• Winterizing pipes
• Conducting routine inspections

What Should I Do if I Encounter a Plumbing Emergency at Odd Hours?

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the affected area. Prioritize safety precautions and mitigate damage with buckets and towels. Contact an emergency plumber immediately.

How Quickly Should I Expect a Response During an Emergency?

Response times during a plumbing emergency can vary depending on the service provider and the nature of the situation. Reputable emergency plumbers aim to respond promptly, typically within an hour.

Are Emergency Plumbing Services Covered by Insurance?

In many cases, homeowners’ insurance covers emergency plumbing services, especially if the issue results in property damage. It’s crucial to check your insurance policy.

Final Thoughts

A plumbing emergency requires prompt and reliable action, and finding the right emergency plumber is crucial. 

Our guide through the top online platforms, beginning with Networx, aims to alleviate the stress of such situations. These platforms not only offer quick access to professional services but also provide insights into their reliability and expertise through reviews and ratings.

Remember, time is of the essence in an emergency, so choosing a platform that can swiftly connect you to a skilled plumber is vital. So next time the pipes give you trouble, refer back to our recommendations and get the help you need without delay.

*Upon application, customer information will be submitted to Networx and Networx Buyers and users are consenting to contact by Networx, Networx Buyers and any other service professionals via calls, texts, and emails using artificial voice calls, pre-recorded calls, or calls placed with the assistance of auto-dialer technology at the telephone number and email address provided. Such consent is not a condition of purchasing any property, goods or services.

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The post Emergency Plumber in San Francisco: Plumbing Repairs 24/7 appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

It was as if someone tugged at a thread that long weekend in November, split the nation’s seam and exposed a nasty wound in its guts.

It happened first in downtown Baltimore. On Nov. 8, a 20-inch pipe burst, sending hundreds of thousands of gallons of water into the streets, closing businesses, snarling traffic and flooding the underground, where cars floated in garages.

Then in Chicago, a broken water main created a 43-foot sinkhole that swallowed several cars as millions of gallons of water gushed onto streets near busy Lake Shore Drive on the city’s North side.

Finally on Nov. 10, near San Francisco, a pipe that carries water to 2.4 million people burst, shooting a 100-foot geyser into the air. A shut-off valve was jammed for three days, and the area lost more than 70 million gallons of water.

By and large, Americans have a safe, plentiful and cheap water supply, but those three days in 2002 were a case study in the nation’s water woes. The country’s geriatric water pipes need to be fixed or replaced, and government and industry studies have estimated that it will take between $150 billion and $1 trillion over the next three decades to do the job.

Both public and private water purveyors are battling for a piece of that new market. But private water companies, led by French and German multinationals, appear poised to take the lead in providing drinking water to American consumers. With money and free-market ideology on their side, they appear to be winning battles in Congress, although the going is still rough in the court of public opinion.

Private water interests have become a major political force in the debate about the country’s water infrastructure, according to a year-long investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, a project of the Center for Public Integrity. Since 1996, when the Environmental Protection Agency first warned of a looming water infrastructure crisis, private water companies and their associations have ratcheted up spending in the political arena, allocating millions to influence and support lawmakers.

The ICIJ investigation analyzed campaign finance records from the 1996 through the 2002 election cycles — a time when Congress was considering two pieces of legislation that affected the privatization of drinking water systems. One, a tax law favorable to privatization, was passed; the second, a funding bill that encourages privatization, is expected to be taken up again in the 2003 Congress.

From 1995 through 1998, the water utility industry, its employees and their political action committees, spent less than $500,000 on campaign contributions — a blip on the national campaign finance radar. But in the last two election cycles — from 1999 to 2002 — campaign spending more than tripled to roughly $1.5 million. Most of that came from a core group of seven of the nation’s largest private water companies and the industry association that represents them.

Of the private water companies, utilities and water associations that reported having lobbied on legislation related to privatization from 1996 to 2002, proponents outspent opponents 12 to 1, according to federal lobby disclosure forms.

The National Association of Water Companies, the private utility industry group, and the seven private companies – nearly all foreign-owned – emerged as donating giants among the water sector. Over the last seven years, those firms and their employees together contributed 84 percent of the roughly $2 million the water utility sector donated to federal election campaigns.

More than half of the sector’s campaign spending came from two large New Jersey-based companies, United Water Resources Inc., a French subsidiary, and American Water Works Co. Inc., which was acquired by a German conglomerate on Jan. 10, 2003.

Of the seven U.S. private water companies that were major political donors, only one is still American-owned: Philadelphia Suburban Corp. Inc. of Bryn Mawr, Pa.

Under U.S. campaign finance laws, U.S.-based subsidiaries of foreign corporations could contribute unregulated “soft money” contributions to political parties; the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002, better known as McCain-Feingold, banned soft money contributions to the political parties.

United Water was purchased in 2000 by Paris-based Suez Lyonnaise des Eaux, the world’s largest water company; since 1994, Suez maintained a “strategic alliance” with the Harrington, N.J.-based, company. Suez also owns US Water LLC, also based in New Jersey. Vivendi, the second French water giant, bought United States Filter Corp. of Palm Desert, Calif., in 1999.

RWE AG, a German multinational company, purchased American Water Works of Voorhees, N.J., which serves 15 million people in 27 states and three Canadian provinces and is the largest publicly traded water company in the United States. Thames Water LLC, a British subsidiary of RWE, operates E’town Corp. of Westfield, N.J. Aquarion Services Co. of Bridgeport, Conn., is owned by Kelda Group PLC of England.

On the lobbying front, another key battleground of political influence, just three groups — the National Association of Water Companies, United Water and American Water Works — accounted for more than 90 percent of the $2.4 million spent by those in the water utility sector that traditionally have supported privatization measures.

By contrast, groups that generally have opposed privatization, such as the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, an industry organization for public water utilities, spent just more than $200,600 between 1996 and the first half of 2002 to make their case with lawmakers.

Publicly owned water companies spent more than $2.3 million lobbying on an array of issues. But it was not clear from the disclosure forms that they are required to file how much of their lobbying dollars were aimed at influencing the privatization debate.

Due to corporate diversification and the vagueness of lobby disclosure forms, it was also impossible to determine the specific spending patterns of two major private water players. But French media giant Vivendi Universal — parent company of its water unit Vivendi Environnement and of the U.S. water company USFilter — and the California-based Bechtel Group, former parent of US Water, are both big spenders on political campaigns and lobbying.

Jim Creedon, a spokesman for United Water, said political spending by the water companies is “never given with the intention of influencing opinion.” It is, however, a way to get noticed, a kind of calling card left at lawmakers’ doors. Marilyn Ware, chairwoman of American Water Works, and Marian S. Ware, her mother, gave $350,000 in soft money to a branch of the Republican National Committee. In September 2002, Marilyn Ware was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve on his National Infrastructure Advisory Committee.

Water privatization, which has gained momentum in the rest of the world over the last decade, is poised to become a strongly contested issue in the United States. Private owners and managers of water utilities by the start of 2003 made up roughly 15 percent of the industry, leaving plenty of room for expansion.

Decaying infrastructure

The hodgepodge of federal grants and loans that states typically rely on to help upgrade their water systems is dwindling. The Environmental Protection Agency estimated in September 2002 that the budget shortfall to make these repairs may reach $263 billion by 2019 for drinking water alone.

The Republican-led Congress does not appear inclined to dole out extra money for large public projects when the funding stream is renewed in 2003. In general, the government’s position “is to let markets work,” said Bennett Raley, assistant secretary for Water and Science at the Interior Department. Typifying its attitude toward public companies, the Bush administration is seeking to privatize part of the postal service.

Based on past experience in other countries, though, privatizing water carries risks. The water giants not only will raise rates to cover costs, critics say, but will use monopolies over water systems and rights to manipulate the system, much the way electricity companies were accused of doing in California in the summer of 2001. Critics fear that these companies will not be held accountable, so jobs will be lost, quality will wane and the poor will lose service.

“Why does somebody need to make money on your water?” said Dick Hierstein, city manager ofPekin, Ill., which decided to buy back its water system from American Water Works. “Does somebody need to make money off the air you breathe? It is as simple as that.”

Defenders of the publicly owned water systems say they have worked well despite a shortage of cash. They argue that water is a homeland security issue, an area where government spending can be defended as legitimate and perhaps even patriotic. “Water infrastructure is not failing right and left, like a road with potholes or a river erupting into flames, because public water systems are doing a great job,” said Michael Arceneaux, a spokesman for the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, which represents municipal utilities serving more than 100,000 customers.

“Clean and safe water is no less a national priority than are national defense, an adequate system of interstate highways, and a safe and efficient aviation system,” added Norida Torriente, a spokeswoman for the American Society of Civil Engineers.

But the major private utilities have plenty of experience around the world dealing with opposition and have had some success in America doing what they do everywhere — buying up local companies, donating to politicians and tapping into lobbies to change legislation to smooth the way for privatization.

“With [American Water], we will inherit their existing political and lobbying skills,” said Peter Spillett, head of Environment, Quality and Sustainability for Thames Water, in an interview at his office outside London. “In Washington, we will employ useful lobbyists and so on.”

Gérard Payen, senior executive vice president of Suez, said that its U.S. subsidiary is still developing alliances with politicians and industry groups. The United States and China are the company’s main expansion targets, Payen said.

From the business perspective, there is no reason Suez should not succeed.”Running water systems is a business,” said Debra Coy, vice president of Schwab Capital Market’s Washington Research Group. Everything else, she added, is “emotional rhetoric.”

The open U.S. market

Private water companies are not a new concept in the United States. They were set up in Rhode Island in 1772. By 1799, the Manhattan Company, which was associated with Manhattan Bank and then the Chase Manhattan Bank, was created to clean up New York’s water. But it neglected the public needs, and eventually the city government, in 1842, embarked on the nation’s largest public water project by bringing in water from the Croton River.

Baltimore’s water system bounced between public and private owners over more than a 50-year span in the 1800s that included cholera outbreaks and contaminated wells. In 1830, city officials accused the private water company of supplying water only to the rich. Yet it took 20 years for the city to buy back the assets.

By 1850, 50 of the country’s 83 systems were privately owned. That changed to a system largely run by public utilities during the early 20th century as population boomed and advocates crusaded for public hygiene, disease prevention and fire protection.

Today, public utilities serve 81 percent of the American population. Yet private companies own about 70 percent of American drinking water systems, EPA figures show. But these are generally small, rural operations.

Analysts expect the $60 billion drinking water market to grow to between $180 billion and $200 billion by 2019 due to the anticipated infrastructure needs.

Much of the current private involvement in water is in management, rather than outright ownership of waterworks. It is within this market of management services that the French and German companies are hoping to expand. In these public-private partnerships, which Congress is expected to endorse, contracts typically last for 20 years.

Vivendi Environnement and Suez secured billion-dollar contracts in some of America’s largest cities, including Atlanta and Indianapolis. Cities fromCamden, N.J., to Stockton, Calif., also have contracted or are looking to contract with these companies.

Atlanta had been touted as a “trophy contract” for private companies after it signed a 20-year, $20.8 million deal with United Water in 1999 – at the time, the nation’s largest public-private partnership contract. But Mayor Shirley Franklin, who took office after the deal was signed, canceled the contract on Jan. 24, 2003.

Citing a city audit of United Water operations, Franklin complained that the company had not kept up with maintenance and repair work and failed to collect millions of dollars in unpaid bills. The company saved the city only about $10 million a year, or half its projections, a January 2003 audit showed, according to Greg Giornelli, chief policy officer for Atlanta.

United Water chairman and CEO Michael Chesser said the company had improved its performance over the last several months. However, both the city and company agreed that the contract did not provide “an economically viable framework” for either party’s future, he said in a press statement.

In 2001, Indianapolis bought the assets of the local private water company that served the city for 131 years. Nine months later, city officials awarded the nation’s largest management contract to date — a 20-year, $1.5 billion-deal to Vivendi’s USFilter.

After three years and almost $4 million in planning, the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board rejected plans for a water and wastewater private management contract worth just under $1 billion. USFilter had been seen as the top contender in the New Orleans deal. City officials led by Mayor Ray Nagin said they needed a private manager to keep water rates from skyrocketing and to meet federal mandates to overhaul the city’s sewer system, a major source of pollution.

The water deal had been expected to sail through a vote of the water board, but it died in October 2002 after several council members abruptly withdrew support. Two of the 13 board members whose terms expired in October — and who voted against the measure — were not reappointed by Nagin, who has said publicly that he is considering reopening the bidding process in February.

Cities have viewed privatization as an option for many years. They have lobbied the government intermittently since the 1980s — when Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley picked up the torch during a budget battle — to change the tax code in a way that would enable cities to contract with private companies, including water companies.

The U.S. Conference of Mayors, a nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more, joined with the Washington-based industry group, the National Association of Water Companies, to lobby the Internal Revenue Service to change language in the tax code that penalized cities with loss of tax-exempt status if they contracted private companies for more than five years.

The tax status is crucial to the finances of cities because it allows them to borrow money at significantly lower rates and with tax-free interest payments on the government bond market. Private companies claimed they found it difficult to recover costs with contracts limited to five years.

Success came in 1997, when the IRS extended the contract limits to 20 years. That step encouraged private water companies to begin expanding their operations in the United States.

The big companies view the U.S. market hungrily because Americans are among the largest per capita water-users in the world — and pay among the lowest rates.

In 2001, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that Americans paid an average of 0.5 percent of their annual household budgets on water and wastewater bills during the 1990s. That could rise slightly, from 0.6 percent to 0.9 percent by 2019, the report estimated.

A 2002 rate survey by Raftelis Financial Consulting of North Carolina showed that drinking water fees grew by 8.8 percent from 1996 to 2001. Last year, American customers paid an average of $16.46 a month for typical usage of 7,480 gallons of water.

For private companies, this simply means there is plenty of room to increase rates. That could lead to angry backlash, critics said. But on the other hand, the companies may find plenty of justification.

Overall, government reports show that conservation efforts have reduced water consumption and lowered the revenue utilities desperately need for capital improvements. Drought and a population that is expected to double in the next 50 years have led to worries of future shortages.

Several aquifers, including the Ogallala in Texas and the Potomac-Raritan-Magothy in New Jersey, already are under duress. Last summer, more than 40 percent of the nation experienced a drought, forcing some towns, such as Westminster, Maryland, to consider purchasing water from outside sources. Getting water to these regions could cost more money.

In 1996, the EPA released a report that identified the need for improvements in the U.S. water infrastructure. By 2001, bipartisan legislation to fund these projects had been introduced in Congress. It required utilities for the first time to consider alternate management options — including private partnerships — before they receive federal money. Congress is expected to reconsider that legislation in early 2003.

Diane VanDe Hei, executive director of the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, the public utilities industry group, said there should be no federal mandate for privatization. “I don’t think there is enough information or data for the federal government to endorse public-private partnerships,” she said.

The companies believe the proposed legislation simply “encourages creative asset management,” said Louis Jenny, director of federal relations at the National Association of Water Companies, the trade group for private companies.

Against the tide

Labor unions and the watchdog group Public Citizen waged an 18-month-long campaign to halt the trend toward privatization around the United States.

The groups heavily lobbied Congress in 2001 and 2002 to excise language from the bill advocating private partnerships, which Public Citizen said “jeopardizes public access to safe and affordable drinking water and adequate wastewater treatment by making federal assistance conditional on the recipient’s consideration of privatization.”

The Senate version made a moderate concession, changing the phrase that explained funding conditions from considering “public-private partnerships” to “forming cooperative partnerships.” The House version remained the same.

A coalition of municipal water companies and public interest groups formed an anti-privatization lobby that called on Congress to increase grants and loans to $57 billion over five years to improve public utilities’ infrastructure. Private companies objected to the expanded grants because they would remove the incentive to privatize.

Eventually, labor unions, which also opposed privatization, were able to kill the bill. They wanted contractors to be paid the federal prevailing wage, a collectively bargained figure that typically exceeds market rates. Without that provision, privatization threatens labor unions’ bargaining clout.

During the campaign over the bill, Public Citizen cited several bribery and corruption convictions — overseas and in the United States — as evidence that global water companies could not be trusted with the nation’s water supply.

In 2001, Aqua Alliance Inc., parent company of Professional Services Group, a wastewater treatment company, pled guilty to bribing a New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board official in exchange for favorable treatment. Board member Katharine Maraldo and three PSG employees were indicted in U.S. District Court in Houston, Texas, for conspiracy, mail fraud and interstate travel in aid of bribery. Maraldo was convicted in June 2002 of accepting legal services and more than $70,000 in cash from the company. Michael Stump, a former PSG executive, also was convicted on charges related to bribery. Two others were acquitted on all charges, and one man killed himself in May 2002.

In Atlanta, according to Public Citizen, state campaign finance records showed that donations from four executives of United Water Services Inc., a division of United Water Resources Inc. and a minority subcontractor to Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell’s 1999 reelection campaign, totaled $4,750. Such donations are not illegal, unless clear evidence exists that a donation was given in exchange for a government contract.

Bill Campbell’s brother, Ralph, who ran for the state auditor office in North Carolina, received more than $10,000 in contributions from United Water executives in Georgia, Indiana, California and New Jersey. The company does no business in North Carolina.

The ‘champions’

The usual practice of the private water companies is hard-nosed.

Howard Woods, former director of business development for American-Anglian, a now-defunct branch of American Water Works, described the 1990s as a cut-throat period in the water business in the United States. Companies bid so low that they risked tiny profit margins, he said. The thinking was that they could always renegotiate later to recoup their costs — a common practice in the water business in other parts of the world.

“You could think of it as gutsy,” he said. “But I tell you that was the way to open the door.”

Today, the fervor has subsided a bit, said Woods, now a consultant. “We make sure that we are viewed as the ‘good guy’ to hire and at the end of the day, we make sure the decision was based on who had the lower number on the piece of paper. It’s not necessary to do anything else to win the job.”

But according to insiders, the process is not always that simple. One common practice of the water companies, they say, is to develop “champions,” or local powerbrokers, such as mayors, council members or legislators, to carry their message to both city councils and the people. They try to persuade local governments facing the headaches of budget crunches, labor strife and decaying systems that the answer to their woes lay in privatization.

Around the world, companies such as Suez, Vivendi, Thames and Saur have proven to be masters at this skill. In Europe, they ally themselves with city mayors or top managers. In South America and Asia, they join hands with powerful local businessmen who have close ties to senior politicians.

In the United States, the result often is a symbiotic relationship between the companies and local politicians. A former New Jersey lawmaker, a consultant who has worked with private water companies, said the companies carefully scout their potential “champions,” looking for the lone party member on councils, political neophytes, or mayors.

Typically beleaguered, rarely thriving, the municipalities these politicians represent often can’t make payroll, struggle with labor problems or, sometimes, just want cleaner water for their citizens.

Enter the private companies and their champion with promises of a grand solution. The consultant said company representatives carefully train their “champion” on how to sell the product. Dinners, trips, theater tickets and sometimes cash follow, he said. On a recent visit, the New Jersey consultant gave a former champion several hundred dollars to “help him out,” he said.

In the meantime, the companies wage a quiet public relations campaign. They meet with local reporters and editors to persuade them to publish stories or editorials about the water debate. They find residents to write letters to the editor endorsing privatization. Often, they recruit people to pad official planning meetings that otherwise go unattended to speak up on behalf of privatization. This technique can often get them past the EPA’s requirement that municipalities hold open meetings for public comment, the consultant said.

Scott Edwards, spokesman for USFilter, acknowledged use of the word “champion” to describe allies in cities where his company has plans. However, he noted that his company requires all its contractors to sign documents prohibiting them from engaging in illegal activity, and specifically bribes.

Kerry Lauricella, a former councilman in Harahan, La., said he often felt “wooed” by prospective contractors, although he said neither he nor anyone he knew took bribes or were otherwise influenced.

Harahan, a suburb of New Orleans, eventually chose to privatize its wastewater system because it felt it had no choice. Harahan operated with a $4 million budget with about two-thirds earmarked for safety protection. It was difficult, he said, to handle capital projects.

“We did what a lot of cities do — keep taping it and taping it and sooner or later tape doesn’t work anymore,” he said about municipalities’ struggles to make major infrastructure repairs.

In 1996, the town contracted its wastewater services to a company that was later bought by USFilter. Lauricella said he does not feel entirely good about it. “I have mixed emotions on having a non-American company with its hand on the tap of America’s water valve,” he said. “You don’t know what will happen.”

Some towns are voting ‘no’

In Kentucky, a grassroots movement is opposing RWE’s purchase of American Water, whose subsidiary, Kentucky-American Water Co., serves more than 290,000 customers in the Lexington-Fayette Urban County area. The county is considering purchasing the company itself.

Officials in the Illinois towns of Pekin and Peoria — which have some of the highest water rates in the state — have reported problems with their water companies, both subsidiaries of American Water Works, and have taken steps to buy back the assets. Pekin officials have complained about burst pipes and malfunctioning hydrants. Officials in Peoria contend the water company overcharges for its service.

“Our studies show that the cost of water in Peoria is twice that of other similar-sized cities in the country,” said Terry Kolbuss, executive director of the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission in East Peoria, Illinois, who began advocating public ownership of the utility several years ago while he worked as a business development consultant.

Susan Atherton, a spokeswoman for Illinois-American Water Co., said that rates in Pekin and Peoria are not the highest in the state and that many other suburbs pay far more for their water. She said the customers served by Illinois-American pay a “fair rate” and get “excellent service” in return. Atherton added that state regulators, not the company, established the rates charged by privately owned companies.

In blue-collar Pekin, few can afford the higher rates. The steamboat and railroad industry that fed the little town along the Illinois River has left little more than rusted factories on its willowed banks. One of America’s fading mainstreet towns, Pekin has little more to offer its residents than a candy store, a few diners, trinket shops and a tavern with a crumbling facade.

Hierstein, Pekin’s city manager, said the company’s service — in private hands since 1886, in Illinois-American Water’s control since the early 1980s — had declined in recent years. Company officials counter with an Illinois Commerce Commission report that Pekin’s number of customer complaint calls ranked among the lowest in the state from 1999 to 2001.

ICIJ researcher Daniel Politi contributed to this report.

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Students and staff at two Houston ISD elementary schools will be relocated for the upcoming school year while their campuses undergo major renovations funded by federal pandemic relief dollars. 

The district plans to temporarily relocate De Zavala and Franklin elementary students while replacing the HVAC — heating, ventilation and air conditioning — systems at the Greater East End campuses, according to HISD. Those students will spend the year learning at an annex located across the street from Austin High School at 1820 S. Lockwood Drive, roughly 3 miles from their original campuses. 

LATEST NEWS: HISD removes principals from Yates, Worthing and Sharpstown high schools, 1 week after job cuts

“This capital project is a major renovation that requires complete access to the buildings and includes replacing the chiller as well as replacing piping for the entire campus,” the district said in a statement.

The students and personnel are expected to return to De Zavala and Franklin campuses in the fall of 2024. 

In the meantime, the district will provide transportation for students to and from their home campuses, according to HISD. 

HISD held two meetings in late June to discuss the building upgrades and relocation with the school communities. It’s unclear what exactly was shared with families at those meetings. De Zavala serves roughly 450 students and Franklin has 280 students, the vast majority of them Hispanic, according to state data. 

The school board last month approved a contract with Prime Contractors, Inc., to complete the $6.2 million project at De Zavala and $5.9 million renovation at Franklin, according to an agenda for the June 22 meeting. 

The board also approved a contract with American Mechanical Services to complete $1.2 million in HVAC repairs at Ninfa Laurenzo Early Childhood Center, although relocation of students is not required, according to the district. 

TEACHERS: HISD teachers worried over salaries, possible ‘mass exodus’ as resignation deadline nears

All three projects, totaling no more than $13.4 million, are funded by dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act and the third round of ESSER, or Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief.

The maintenance projects stem from a district-wide facilities assessment completed in 2021 that identified an urgent need to replace and repair poorly functioning HVAC systems and mechanical equipment at several campuses, according to the agenda. The repairs should improve indoor air quality at the renovated campuses. 

The project predates new superintendent Mike Miles and his administration, with the prior administration seeking contractors for the project starting in early March.  

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The great thing about homeownership is that there’s no landlord telling you what you can and can’t do. The not-so-great thing about homeownership is that there’s no landlord to call when things go wrong.

Toilet running off and on, or nonstop? Sink that won’t drain? Door squeaking as ominously as the lid to Dracula’s casket? The cost of fixing these and other relatively minor problems can eat into your budget. Unless, of course, you try fixing them yourself.

To be clear: We’re not suggesting you tackle major plumbing repairs, or re-wire your entire house without knowing the difference between hot and neutral wires. But there’s no reason to shell out the bucks for a new chair if the one you have can be repaired fairly quickly, or to automatically call a plumber when your garbage disposal stops in mid-chew. Think of all the money you might save if it turns out that all you had to do was hit the “reset” button.

Following are some examples of fairly simple fixes that most homeowners will face during their lives. Not only can you likely do them yourself, but you can do so in a matter of minutes (or at least less than an hour). Happy repairing!

1. Fixing a bent miniblind

UM-UMM / Shutterstock.com

Kids (and cats!) sometimes bend miniblind slats while trying to look outside. According to Family Handyman, an inexpensive little doohickey called the MiniBlindRx can fix things can fix. You slide the palm-sized tool back and forth along the bent slat, crimping it along the way, until it looks acceptable once more.

Several reviewers on Amazon pointed out that the slat doesn’t look completely new, but it’s darned close. “I don’t think your guests would even notice it,” says one cat-owning reviewer. Another reviewer notes that it saved them from having to pay the landlord for damages.

2. Fixing a sticking or squeaky door

NagornyiSergiy / Shutterstock.com

If your door squeaks, it’s often a problem with the hinges. The first thing to do is tighten the screws on the hinge. Open and close the door a couple of times, and if the squeak is gone, your work is done.

Still squeaking? Lubricate the hinges, advises the Angi website (formerly Angie’s List). You might be able to squirt in some WD-40 and call it good. But if the door still squeaks, lightly tapping the door’s hinge pin with a hammer until the pin is lodged upward; spray the hinge and also the pin before tapping it back down into place.

According to Angi, you can also lubricate with a non-glycerin bar soap, olive oil or good old petroleum jelly. And if the door still squeaks? You can try removing the hinge pins and cleaning them with steel wool, but you might also have to replace them. The Angi’s list link explains more.

3. Resolving minor garbage disposal issues

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Disposal won’t turn on? Look underneath the unit for the reset button. Push it, wait a few seconds and hit the power switch. Sometimes that’s all it takes, according to Roto-Rooter.

If it still doesn’t work, unplug the disposal and try another outlet; if it works, then you might need to reset the breaker switch for the original outlet.

If the motor is running but the food isn’t getting ground up, there could be a jam. First, make sure to unplug the disposal. Then, use a 1/4-inch hex wrench (aka Allen wrench) in the center hole at the bottom of the unit, and turn back and forth. Typically, that will free up the clog. Don’t have a wrench? Insert a wooden spoon or dowel into the drain, press the spoon/dowel against one of the propeller arms, and then push the arm counterclockwise.

If that doesn’t work, make sure the unit is unplugged and use kitchen tongs or your hand to feel for anything that’s keeping the blades from moving. Roto-Rooter’s “How to Un-Jam a Garbage Disposal Like a Plumber” video offers step-by-step instructions for all these steps.

4. Fixing wobbly chairs

Elnur / Shutterstock.com

As chairs age, the glue holding them together weakens. Ideally, you should disassemble and re-glue it. But according to Family Handyman, there’s a simpler fix if it’s a chair without much sentimental value:

1. Buy some trim-head screws
2. Drill pilot holes in the wiggly areas.
3. “Toe-screw” the screws into the pilot holes, making sure to drive from the bottom so you won’t be able to see the fix later. (The site shows how.)

If the chair is super wobbly, Family Handyman suggests forcing epoxy adhesive into the gaps to make the fit stronger.

5. Replacing (or installing) weatherstripping

Audrius Merfeldas / Shutterstock.com

The easiest forms of weatherstripping include self-sticking vinyl or felt strips and door sweeps, available at home improvement centers and big-box stores. You peel and stick them anywhere that air is getting in (or out). Other varieties of weatherstripping must be stapled, nailed or glued in place. The U.S. Department of Energy website offers information and installation tips on most varieties of weatherstripping.

Replacing or adding this product to windows and doors can keep out both wintry drafts and hot summer air, which helps keep you more comfortable and also reduces utility costs.

And speaking of costs: Check to see if you’re eligible for financial aid from the federal Weatherization Assistance Program.

6. Patching drywall holes

Benjamin Clapp / Shutterstock.com

A small hole is fairly easy to fix with a drywall repair kit, available online or at home improvement centers. They typically include a 4-by-4-inch patch. These tips from Home Depot should make the job a snap:

Cover the drywall hole with self-adhesive mesh. Using a putty knife, spread the kit’s spackle or joint compound over the hole. Use a criss-cross pattern and try to make the edges blend into the wall.

Let dry for up to 24 hours, then apply a second coat if needed. Once that coat is dry, sand the area until smooth. Next, paint the spot to match the wall. Keep in mind that you might have to repaint the whole wall if the previous paint job was a long time ago and the patched spot stands out.

A larger patch job will likely mean cutting into the wall and adding a new piece of drywall. Home Depot shows how to do that, too.

7. Repairing small tears in window screens

Africa Studio / Shutterstock.com

The WikiHow site suggests repairing relatively small holes with clear nail polish. Simply brush it directly over both ends of the tear to “glue” it back together; do this on both sides of the screen. Allow to dry for 24 hours for maximum strength. (Note: For a tinted window screen, look for gray or black nail polish.)

WikiHow also says that you can cut a patch from an old screen and weave it into place, or darn a smaller hole with a needle and aluminum threads pulled from the screen, but that sounds like a lot of work. If you’re up to the challenge, directions can be found here.

Or, take the path of least resistance and patch with screen repair tape, available online or at a home improvement center. Or, consider replacing the whole screen.

8. Unclogging a sink or shower drain

Andrey_Popov / Shutterstock.com

Kitchen sinks are especially prone to clogging due to food residue, cooking oils and mineral buildup. According to the Martha Stewart website, you can loosen a clog with baking soda and vinegar. First, sop out as much standing water as possible; next, dump half a cup of baking soda into the drain and slowly pour in half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug or a clean cloth, let sit for half an hour, and then slowly pour a kettle of hot water down the drain. (You can also use this trick proactively, whenever the sink starts draining sluggishly.)

Another simple option is the drain stick, aka drain auger: an inexpensive, flexible plastic strip with sharp barbs inserted into the drain to pull out clogs (especially hair).

Next up is the plumber’s friend, aka the plunger. According to Lowes.com, use a wet cloth to block a sink or tub’s overflow opening; if you’re working with a double sink, block the drain and overflow of the adjacent one. If there’s no standing water in the sink, pour in a few inches of water, which will help force the obstruction out. Work the plunger over the drain hole for up to half a minute, then see if the obstruction is gone.

No luck? An auger cable (drain snake) is your next step. Insert into the drain until you reach the clog, then break it up by twisting, pulling and pushing the auger. In some cases it might be necessary to remove the sink trap and push the auger directly into the drain; if you don’t feel good about doing this, go ahead and call a plumber.

9. Recaulking a tub

sima / Shutterstock.com

This can sound daunting, but it’s a fairly simple fix: Take out the old, squirt in the new. These tips from This Old House will make it easier:

Cover the tub with a drop cloth, then use a razor scraper or utility knife at a low angle to (carefully!) cut off the old caulking.

Use a dry, nonabrasive pad to remove any caulk residue. If it was silicone caulk, use a soft rag moistened with mineral spirits.

To create a straight bead of caulk, position parallel strips of painter’s tape along the areas to be caulked. Make them about three-eighths of an inch apart.

Using steady pressure, apply the caulk along the seam. Next, use a damp lint-free rag or paper towel to press the caulk in so it’s concave.

Carefully remove the tape, making sure you don’t touch the caulk while doing so. Use the damp towel again to eliminate any ridges where the tape had been.

10. Fixing a running toilet

alfernec / Shutterstock.com

What’s the main source of residential water use? Showers and sinks, right? Or maybe washing machines?

Wrong. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, toilets account for almost 30% of indoor residential water use. Imagine the waste if a toilet runs intermittently, or won’t stop running at all without repeated handle jiggling.

Depending on the problem, it could be as simple as scrubbing mineral deposits off the toilet tank’s flapper and its seal, making sure the flapper chain is the right length, or replacing the flapper altogether. If water keeps draining into the tank’s overflow tube, making the toilet run off and on, the fix might be as easy as making a slight bend on the float arm.

The This Old House website offers tips on diagnosing exactly what’s wrong with the john. Many fixes are within the grasp of the average homeowner.

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March 11 – CARTHAGE, Mo. – Julie Yockey, director of the Carthage Public Library, is hoping a long-standing problem with the library’s heating and air conditioning system may be fixed soon, but the library has to close for a few days around the find final solution.

The library announced on its Facebook page that it must close beginning Monday, March 13 and remain closed for three to five days to allow power to the building to be shut off to allow workers to make final repairs.

“The library will be without power and there will be no heating and/or air conditioning for a period of time,” Yockey said in a note on Facebook. “We hope this closure will last 3-4 days. Users will not be able to access the library or the Steadley Family Legacy Center during this time, and they will not be fined for their materials. The book store will be closed. We apologize for any inconvenience and remind you to always check our website or Facebook page for updates on when the library will reopen.”

Yockey said in an email to the Globe that a contractor has been working on the system since October 2022 and this isn’t the first time the library has been closed during this project.

“After two years of dealing with a failed HVAC system that resulted in incredibly escalating energy bills and high humidity levels, on October 24, the CPL began a full renovation of the 15-year-old system,” she said. “The library had been closed for about three weeks at that point. With no heating, air and electricity to run the library system, this had to be done. Our customers back then have been nothing but patient with the closure, and it’s not our first rodeo with major maintenance issues. We had the water disaster/sprinkler failure in 2020.”

In July 2020, the library’s sprinkler system failed overnight, dumping approximately 100,000 gallons of water into the library and requiring months of repairs to damaged floors, walls, ceilings and other areas.

Yockey said the project will cost the library a little less than $500,000. The Kent D. and Mary L. Steadley Memorial Trust is paying half of the cost, and the Helen S. Boylan Foundation is providing $10,000 to repair the library’s garden, which was damaged during construction.

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One of the nation’s largest corporate landlords, the company rapidly bought and renovated thousands of properties, often without required permits

July 12, 2022 at 6:00 a.m. EDT

Detail above Celeste Jackson’s front door. Some of the issues, like falling tiles and holes in the wall, have recently been addressed by Invitation Homes. (Stella Kalinina)Comment on this story

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RIVERSIDE, Calif. — Invitation Homes advertises that it is leading a real estate “revolution.”

Formed by Wall Street investors after the Great Recession and foreclosure crisis, the company accumulated tens of thousands of houses at depressed prices, spent hundreds of millions of dollars on renovations and now leases them out. Never before has a single landlord owned such large swaths of suburban America. As rents have risen in recent years, the value of the publicly traded company has soared to more than $23 billion.

“Top-quality homes,” it promises prospective renters, “maintained by top-level professionals.”

Yet some of the company’s homes have missed basic quality checks: Renovations at the company’s rapidly assembled collection of 80,000 homes often were made without building permits, according to a review of Invitation Homes properties in several states, a California lawsuit and a Washington Post analysis of building data in three cities.

Skipping building permits may have allowed the company to avoid costly delays and save millions in fees, according to estimates based on the number of company homes. But forgoing the permits, which are required by city codes to ensure quality and safety, has led to shoddy repairs and maintenance that puts tenants at risk, renters said.

“We’re paying $4,000 a month to live in hell,” said Celeste Jackson, a Los Angeles entrepreneur who lives with her husband in an Invitation Homes property. Before she moved in, a third bedroom was created in the home without the permits required to do so, according to floor plans of the property and interviews with tenants. Since then, the couple said they have suffered through cracked skylights, rotten wood and flooding so frequent that the company left sandbags at their door for months.

Outside Dallas, another couple said they discovered water pouring through their walls and soaking the carpet after a bathroom renovation for which no permits are on file with the city.

And near Tampa, contractors hired by Invitation Homes reframed rotted floors and walls and rewired a living room without pulling permits, according to county records. The contractors then left the living room gutted for seven months before the company fixed it properly, according to one of the tenants, Kristi McKenzie, and photos she provided.

“They hire people who will just do anything without doing it to code,” McKenzie said.

The company disputes allegations that it purposely hires contractors who disregard permitting rules, adding that most tenants are satisfied, staying nearly three years on average and giving positive online reviews.

Invitation Homes is one of several large corporations that have transformed the rental housing industry over the past decade, touting their ability to efficiently manage vast portfolios of single-family houses. Tenant advocates say corporate landlords are helping to drive up rent prices even as they skimp on maintenance and major repairs.

For this report, The Post analysis looked at three markets where Invitation has hundreds of homes: Charlotte; Orlando; and Riverside, Calif., a suburb east of Los Angeles. In all three, Invitation Homes properties were less likely than others in the area to have had permits pulled for renovations and other projects, according to the analysis of local building department data. In Charlotte and Riverside, Invitation Homes properties were half as likely to have had permits pulled.

Separately, The Post found that at more than a dozen Invitation Homes properties across several states, the company hired contractors for renovations for which there is no record of the required permits. The projects included roof replacements, air conditioning installations, swimming pool demolitions and other work that sometimes led to significant complications.

Given a summary of The Post’s findings, Invitation Homes did not comment on the statistical analysis or specific problems reported by renters. In a statement, the company said that it expects its contractors to abide by permitting rules.

“We always seek to comply with applicable laws and regulations, including permitting laws, and are continually evaluating and improving our compliance procedures,” the company said in an emailed statement from spokesperson Kristi DesJarlais. “We expect our third-party vendors to adhere to these same standards and enter into agreements that obligate them to do so.”

In most parts of the country, local officials require building permits for significant home renovations. Changing the plumbing, rewiring an electrical circuit or replacing a roof often call for payment of a fee and, sometimes, inspections. The responsibility for pulling a permit lies with both the owner and the licensed contractor doing to the work, building officials said. The process can cause delays and add thousands of dollars to renovation costs.

“Permits are there to ensure life safety,” said Ron Takiguchi, former president of California Building Officials, a professional organization. “Homeowners should have the right to enjoy their homes without worrying that the construction is safe.”

Invitation Homes officials have said the company has spent $25,000 on average renovating each home it acquired. Such costly projects often require permits, but company properties were much less likely to have had permits pulled than other houses in the same areas, according to The Post analysis.

This raises concerns that some renovations were not properly permitted, Takiguchi said.

“It would be a red flag just based on the disproportionality itself,” he said.

The Post analyzed how often building permits were issued to Invitation Homes properties compared to other residential properties, from 2012 to the present. For the analysis, The Post chose three cities where Invitation has hundreds of homes and building permit data is readily accessible. In all three, the Invitation Homes properties were less likely to have had permits pulled.

In Riverside, where the company owns more than 400 homes, building permits were issued for 13 percent of properties it acquired. By contrast, the proportion of other Riverside homes that have obtained permits is 28 percent — meaning Invitation Homes was half as likely as other homeowners to have obtained a building permit over the past decade.

In Charlotte, where the company owns about 1,900 homes, building permits have been issued for 24 percent of the company’s properties, compared with 48 percent of other Charlotte homes. And in Orlando, where the company owns 1,300 homes, building permits have been issued for 56 percent of its properties, compared with 63 percent of other homes.

Across the United States, The Post found multiple examples where unpermitted work left tenants with homes in poor condition.

In the middle of the pandemic, for example, Candy Scott and her family moved into an Invitation property in Denton, Tex., in December 2020. Recent photos of the property showed that the bathroom had been remodeled to replace a whirlpool tub with a shower stall.

“I thought: ‘They just remodeled. What could go wrong?’ ” Scott recalled.

The week she moved in, she found water from the shower filling the bathroom and running into the master bedroom, soaking the carpet. “When you walked on the carpet in the master bedroom, it was soaking wet. For a while, we tried to put towels on the carpet, but then we realized it was coming through the walls.”

A contractor came and tore out the tile, finding that no shower liner had been installed underneath, Scott said. He re-tiled the shower but then the drain clogged, she was told, because of mortar he’d let slip into the drain. Getting a new contractor to fix the shower took months, she said.

On another occasion, she said, the house needed a plumber , but the person who showed up was only prepared to repair drywall and told her he would “go to Home Depot and try to figure it out.”

She said she complained repeatedly to Invitation’s customer service staff about the quality of work.

“I would ask them: ‘Why do you keep sending people out here who are doing a horrible job?’ He’d say, ‘I have another company but they are going to do just as bad.’ ”

There are no permits on file with the city for any of the repairs, which are required by Denton. In April, Scott and her family moved out.

At a home in Clayton, N.C., near Raleigh, Invitation Homes hired a contractor to do $54,000 worth of work, including installing a new air conditioning system, according to documents obtained by The Post. Air conditioning installations and renovations of that value require building permits, but none are on file, a city spokesperson said.

“They never seem to live up to what they promise,” said tenant Erich Budde, who said that in addition to the unpermitted renovations, the painting and work on the floor seem in his view to have been shoddy and rushed. “Things are always discombobulated and disorganized,” he said.

The company declined to comment on specific cases.

“Since our founding 10 years ago, Invitation Homes has consistently invested in providing prompt, professional service to our residents, including the timely turnaround of all maintenance requests,” the company said.

Before the Great Recession, enormous real estate companies like Invitation Homes with huge portfolios of single-family houses were largely unheard of. Companies that rented houses tended to be much smaller and limited to one town or region.

“Back in 2012, home-leasing options were slim,” the Invitation Homes website explains. “There were only mom-and-pop landlords and a few regional leasing companies. No one could deliver the consistent, worry-free way of life that our founders envisioned.”

The foreclosure crisis created buying opportunities for these large ventures, but it was internet technology that enabled them to seize the moment. Using large-scale cloud-based data analysis, Wall Street investors were able to search for and buy hundreds of homes in a week.

The technology also benefited renters, Invitation Homes says, because it makes leasing a house simpler and more efficient. Potential renters can browse houses online or tour them in person with self-guided walk-throughs. Tenants often say that they might not even meet a property manager before moving in.

Like tech disrupters Uber, Robinhood and Amazon, Invitation Homes has touted its venture as a way to overhaul an industry populated by more traditional competitors.

Brad Griewe, one of Invitation’s founders, has described the idea this way: “We fundamentally believed we could use technology to enable a best-in-class team to identify, underwrite, purchase, renovate, and professionally lease/manage U.S. single-family rental homes across the country at scale.”

In fact, the company’s advertising suggests it can transform the American Dream and make renting better than buying a home. “That mortgage thing?” the company advertises. “Yeah, forget that.”

The rise of the investment groups, which in some markets are buying up to one-third of the homes that become available, are putting upward pressure on home prices, housing advocates said.

So far, Invitation Homes — spun off by the investment firm Blackstone in 2017 — has paid off for investors. Blackstone declined to comment. After briefly falling below $18 a share when the pandemic started in early 2020, Invitation Homes shares rose above $45 in January but are now going for about $35, reflecting the market sell-off. The company remains a favorite of Wall Street investors.

The company has benefited in recent years from the rapid rise in rents.

In the first quarter of 2020, Invitation charged an average of $1,851 per month. This year, that rose to $2,074, a 12 percent increase, per securities filings, with the largest increases in Phoenix, Las Vegas and Florida.

In buying and fixing up its portfolio of properties nationwide, Invitation Homes has sought to prepare homes quickly to start collecting rent, according to its executives speaking in quarterly calls with investors. That urgency, housing advocates and lawyers say, sometimes compromised quality.

To speed up purchases, large institutional investors like Invitation Homes can buy homes with only superficial inspections, which aren’t as thorough as the typical inspection an individual buyer usually needs to secure a bank loan. As a result, these big companies may be more likely to buy damaged properties, especially when buying homes in bulk or from bank auctions.

“We often do not have the opportunity to conduct interior inspections or conduct more than cursory exterior inspections on a portion of the properties, if at all,” according to Invitation financial filings. “Such inspection processes may fail to reveal major defects associated with such properties.”

The company typically hires third-party contractors to handle repairs and maintenance, spending about $2.5 billion to fix up the houses its buys, according to financial filings — an average of $25,000 to $35,000 per home.

To reduce the time a house sits empty, company executives say they track a metric they call “days to re-resident,” the time it takes to prepare a home and find a new tenant. During the pandemic, the company was able to shorten the period between tenants from 29 days to 23 days, according to executives on a call with analysts.

The speed may raise profits, but some attorneys say it also has harmed tenants.

In late 2020, a newly formed tech company sued Invitation Homes alleging that the company’s contractors regularly conducted repairs and renovations without permits. The lawsuit, which was based on an analysis of Invitation’s portfolio of 12,000 homes in California, claimed that the company had deprived multiple cities and counties of millions of dollars in permit fees. The allegations are based on a broad statistical analysis of building permits issued for Invitation Homes properties and on 15 specific examples where, the plaintiffs say, company properties were renovated without permits.

Invitation Homes “has spent thousands of dollars on renovations to its single-family homes in California but intentionally and systematically failed to obtain building permits,” according to the lawsuit from tech firm Blackbird Special Project, which is using the proprietary technology of a related company, Deckard Technologies, a firm that uses machine learning to review real estate data. The plaintiffs have been represented by Leonard B. Simon, a San Diego attorney, and the firm of Sanford Heisler Sharp.

The “company chose to ignore permitting requirements to avoid permit fees and to get the properties into the rental market as quickly as possible,” according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit is intended to recover money from Invitation Homes for local governments under a whistleblower law that would give the tech firms a portion of any award.

Attorneys for Invitation Homes have called the allegations “unfounded” in court documents and said the case is “a manufactured story, unsupported by particularized allegations.” During a call with investors this year, Invitation chief executive Dallas Tanner said “we think we have some pretty compelling arguments” in response to the lawsuit and that the company looked forward to defending itself in court. Invitation’s attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit in April.

“We believe this case has no merit and is riddled with factual errors and legal deficiencies,” the company said in its statement to The Post.

Regarding the lawsuit, Invitation said in its statement that the plaintiff’s statistical analysis of building permits “lacks any empirical reliability.” The real estate company also has called into question the 15 specific examples of unpermitted work cited by the lawsuit, and noted that they constitute only a small portion of its 12,000 homes in the state.

Using interviews, Google Earth and other public records, however, The Post found evidence that substantial work had been done without permits at eight of the 15 homes cited in the lawsuit. The timing of the unpermitted renovations was not always clear, but six of the eight were done about the time Invitation Homes bought them or shortly thereafter.

At one Riverside home, for example, a pool was filled in and a back portion of the house was demolished after Invitation Homes purchased the property in 2012, according to Google Earth imagery. These changes would have required a building permit, according to municipal codes, but none were obtained, according to city records.

One door down, a patio structure was dismantled without a city permit. The tenant said the roof was replaced, but no building permit was found in city records.

Other homes had an adjoining pantry or shed demolished and another got a new air conditioning system, as alleged in the lawsuit. None of the work had been done with permits, according to city records.

Most of the homes cited in the lawsuit are in Riverside, and in a statement, city officials said those eight homes are “under investigation based on the facts presented and the specific allegations of unpermitted construction contained in the lawsuit.”

Wall Street analysts are paying close attention.

Corporate landlords like Invitation Homes are a sector already “reviled by the populace,” said Ross Bowler, chief executive of 2nd Market Capital Advisory, which analyzes publicly traded real estate companies. Though Invitation Homes is fighting the allegations, he said, the suit probably will generate additional negative publicity.

“They say there is no merit” to the lawsuit, Bowler said. “But because it is potentially ugly and unknown, it puts a mark on the whole single-family rental sector.”

The Post identified properties owned by Invitation Homes by matching its subsidiaries with a national property ownership database maintained by Regrid. Riverside, Orlando and Charlotte were identified as places where Invitation Homes had hundreds of homes and with readily accessible online building permit data.

For each locality, The Post used city and county public online building permit portals and building permit databases to identify permits for homes owned by Invitation Homes and its subsidiaries. Permit data was collected starting in 2012, when Invitation Homes was founded, to the present for any property owned by the company.

Using the same sources, The Post calculated the percentage of all single-family properties not currently owned by Invitation Homes in each locality that had building permits since 2012 on file. Property lists came from publicly accessible county property assessor records. In Riverside, data on single-family properties was last updated in 2017, so homes built after that are excluded from the analysis.

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By now, you know all about the supply chain mess wreaking havoc on the global economy. The onset of the pandemic was the last straw on the camel’s back that broke the global supply chain, and it may be a while until it’s fixed.

Building owners are undoubtedly feeling the ill effects of product shortages. But we’re here to say the supply-shortage consequence you should be most worried about is in regards to your building’s HVAC system.

HVAC contractors nationwide have been hampered by rising costs, a labor shortage, and the inability to get their hands on needed materials like microchips. All this is leading to delays in getting repairs done. And with winter coming soon, now’s the time building owners need to get started on what could be a lengthy HVAC procurement process.

The supply chain nightmare has given all of us a lesson in logistics and globalization we probably didn’t want. It’s essential for property owners to prioritize HVAC repairs now, be flexible with contractors, and build resilience into their supply chains.

The supply chain chaos

You may remember the supply chain problems all began right after the virus struck and caused a shortage in vital medical supplies and personal protection equipment (PPE). As lockdowns began, tremendous demand for N95 masks and other PPE outstripped supply. Consumer panic buying also caused some strange situations (toilet paper shortage).

Unfortunately, this was just the beginning. Factories in parts of the world with much of the global manufacturing capacity were hammered by the pandemic, leading to shutdowns. Shipping companies thought consumer demand would drop because of lockdowns, but they were terribly mistaken. With stay-at-home orders in place, consumers went on online buying sprees for everything from personal computers to home gym equipment. The increased demand overwhelmed supply chains and slowed down the transportation of goods.

All told, it was a perfect storm. And now, more than 18 months since this all started, just about anything that’s produced or manufactured is in short supply. As a result, almost every industry has been hit hard. In particular, the automotive industry has been significantly impacted, as a shortage of microchips has led to considerable decreases in car production and increased costs for consumers.

The microchip shortage is one problem that’s affecting HVAC contractors. Semiconductors are essential components of HVAC systems and they’re in very short global supply. Shortages for all sorts of other HVAC parts have also been reported, including compressors, motors, and raw materials like copper, steel, aluminum, and plastic.

Labor away

Shortages of HVAC components have caused significant price increases. Raiven HVAC supply chain research reveals that specialized equipment including semiconductors will likely see 10-30 percent price increases soon. Copper prices reached an all-time high in May 2021, jumping more than 130 percent from March 2020. The steel price nearly doubled in August 2021 compared to last year, according to a US government index tracking the price.

The US Pacific Northwest and Southwest just went through a historically hot summer, increasing demand for HVAC services. The HVAC industry is also no stranger to labor shortages, but the pandemic has made it worse. All these factors have combined to cause the highest HVAC distributor lead times since 1987, according to Raiven research.

Karl Pomeroy, GM and President of Motili, a nationwide HVAC service provider, said many of the HVAC industry’s supply-chain problems have also been caused by very close to “all-time highs in terms of business growth” for the industry.

The HVAC industry’s labor shortage has had a significant impact, too, Pomeroy said. “As our industry gets more technically advanced, I think the labor shortage is more pronounced,” Pomeroy told us. “It takes a higher level of skill to service some of these pieces of equipment. The industry is also feeling a rising inflationary cost for labor because so many of these companies have to attract and retain top employees, and they’re paying more. So, not only are we paying more for finished goods and parts and pieces, but we’re also feeling the pinch of more expensive labor.”

Pomeroy added that for the typical building owner, they’ve seen fairly dramatic rising costs throughout the past 18 months, and “there’s really no end in sight.”

Stay ahead of the seasons

So, yes, it’s all rather messy right now. But while it seems like an apocalyptic scenario, it’s not all doom and gloom. By taking the proper steps, building owners can do many things to alleviate the pain. Undoubtedly, you’ve already been dealing with increased HVAC service prices and lead times for more than the past year, so you’ve probably come up with some solutions. But as this supply chain mess drags on, it’s imperative to keep a laser-like focus on your HVAC system—especially as winter approaches.

HVAC systems are one of the most expensive and vital pieces of equipment in commercial buildings, and breakdowns can be catastrophic. Get a fall inspection on your HVAC now, especially if it’s acting up. If there are needed fixes that require parts, lead times may be longer. Be proactive and patient with contractors, and get repairs done before the cold weather sets in.

Preventive maintenance of HVAC systems is more critical than ever right now. Check and change air filters on a monthly basis, keep the unit clean, and check heating-specific parts like gas/oil connections, burner combustion, and heat exchangers. This type of maintenance extends the unit’s lifespan and helps avoid significant problems during the heating season.

So see

“Tenant satisfaction is a huge factor affected by HVAC systems,” Pomeroy said. “A lot of our clients are moving into a model where they’re looking at their total portfolio of (HVAC) products, looking at the age of those products, and doing preventive maintenance to keep them in peak operating condition. Our clients are also more proactive when their systems starts to approach its age of replacement and putting it on a planned replacement strategy.”

Back up a system

A second and equally important thing building owners can do right now is build resilience into their supply chains. And this doesn’t just go for HVAC repairs and contractors. Take a look at all your vendors and suppliers and motto ways to make your supply chain stronger during these unpredictable times.

Beware of being stuck in a sole supplier situation. Establish secondary vendors and contractors for essential services (like HVAC), and don’t hesitate to reach out to them if their lead times are shorter or in emergency cases. Consider using supply chain management software, as well. Common programs from Blue Yonder, Infor, Oracle, and SAP help building owners gain better visibility into their vendors and supply chains and they also greatly benefit planning.

Perhaps the worst part of the supply chain nightmare is no one’s quite sure when it will end. Major exporters in Southeast Asia of critical components like semiconductors are still struggling to contain COVID-19, and global port and shipping congestion may last well into 2022.

The Biden administration has taken steps to alleviate the problems, such as urging the Port of Los Angeles to operate 24/7. But as General Motors CEO Mary Barra and other business leaders have indicated, the shortages and rising costs have forced many companies to re-think supply chain management altogether.

Pomeroy said building owners have to be “proactive instead of reactive” with their HVAC systems. Property managers need to focus on their HVAC units and ensure their mechanical components are in good working order. If they’re not focused on HVAC right now, he said, “they’re setting themselves up for a very difficult period of time.”

“I don’t believe this is a case where, in two to three months, all these supply chain and labor shortage issues affecting HVAC go away,” Pomeroy said. “I think we all came into 2021 thinking, well, it’s going to be better. In some cases, it has been better. But in some cases, it hasn’t been. The demands on the HVAC industry have been high. For those clients who are sitting back and waiting, they’re running the risk of the day they decide to do something, they’re going to find themselves not being able to find a labor source or not being able to find the materials.”

Lead times for HVAC repairs may be longer, and costs may be higher, so be proactive about this situation and keep a close watch on it. Get fall HVAC maintenance done as early as possible, and also think about other essential supplies and parts that may be affected. Resiliency, flexibility, and planning skills are the key attributes for surviving this supply chain turmoil. You likely already know about the supply chain issue, don’t wait until it leaves you out in the cold.

The post What the Provide Chain Mess Means for HVAC Repairs appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Johnrob / iStock.com

At first glance, timely home maintenance may seem like a costly, never-ending cash leak that will leave your wallet dry. The following suggestions will help you keep your home repairs within your budget.

1. Keep tabs on your roof

Letting humidity or leaking go unaddressed can cause many problems, including mold, mildew, rot and electrical shorts. Inspect your roof and attic every six months to ensure everything looks good up there.

Professional roof inspection and minor repairs are valued at anywhere between $120 and $300. On the other hand, having to replace your roof can cost you $8,000, on average, and that’s without counting the hundreds of dollars — or even thousands — it would cost you to fix any resulting interior or property damage.

2. Take Care of Your Gutters

Keeping your gutter spotless is an easy — though labor-intensive — DIY fix. If it seems like too much work, a professional gutter inspection and cleaning starts at 80 cents per linear foot, on average. That’s a steal considering that replacing faulty gutters can cost up to $3,000 for an average-size home.

3. Take Care of Your Exterior Walls and Trim

Much like roof damage, exterior wall decay can cause mold, mildew and drafts. Keep an eye out for cracked, blistered siding or peeling paint and prevent foliage from touching your walls and trim.

If you choose to go the DIY route, your facade repairs can cost you up to $1,000. That may not be cheap, but it’s reasonable compared with the several thousand dollars you might spend to fix water damage, replace your entire siding, or cover energy waste charges caused by drafts.

4. Pay Close Attention to Your Windows and Doors

Doors and windows are essential to the safety of your home. Without proper maintenance, they can make it easier for burglars to break in. While a locksmith may charge you up to $150 to replace a lock or latch, doing it yourself can bring the cost down to as little as $30.

5. Keep Your Bathrooms Leak- and Mold-Free

Stay on top of faucet leaks and other issues in your bathrooms. The cost of new faucets can start at $30 per unit. Hiring a qualified plumber to take care of the replacement for you can cost between $100 and $575, which is still nothing compared to mold removal costs.

6. Keep an Eye on Your Laundry Room

Did you know that one of the biggest fire hazards in your home is in your laundry room? Prevent clogged dryer vents that can lead to tragedy by cleaning lint out of your dryer’s tray every time you use it. Additionally, make sure you clean the vent at least once a year. Doing so costs you nothing but a little time and can save your entire household.

7. Fix Your Garbage Disposal

Although the blades and the noise can make garbage disposal repair a bit intimidating for most, it’s often a quick fix you can take care of in less than 20 minutes. What’s more, even if the project ends up being more complex than you initially thought, you can probably replace the whole disposal yourself for as little as $75.

8. Keep Your Cabinet Doors Quiet

To prevent all the unnecessary noise and long-term harm of banging cabinet doors, use peel-and-stick drawer bumpers. You can get them online for cheap and place two on each door — one at the top and one at the bottom.

9. Sweep Your Chimney Regularly

Dirty chimneys are a fire hazard, generate high energy costs and can even cause carbon monoxide poisoning. So, if your fireplace emanates an unusual odor or is starting to present some buildup on its inner walls, it’s time to call a chimney sweep — or to get down to work. Hiring someone to clean your chimney for you has an average cost of $245, while buying a sweeping kit can cost up to $100.

10. Keep Your HVAC System Running Like Clockwork

If your HVAC system has seen better days, maybe it’s time to replace the filters. This will cost you about $15 and help you keep your house cool — or warm — more efficiently. Don’t wait until your system fully breaks to try and fix it, or you might end up having to spend thousands of dollars on replacing the whole thing.

11. Avoid clogs in your plumbing

If you perceive foul odors, your plumbing might need a little maintenance. If clogged, it could cause backups, slow-running drains or system failure. At the first sign of drainage problems, rent a sewer snake to clean all affected pipes. Don’t forget to clean your septic tank every three years. If you’d rather not do it yourself, you can hire an expert for about $300 — a bargain compared to replacing the entire system.

12. Fix Wallpaper Seams

Wallpaper seams can quickly fall apart as the paste wears down, but they can be fixed pretty much for free. Take a rag soaked in warm water and hold it over the affected area for a couple of minutes. Next, carefully open the seam so that you can squeeze some seam sealer or glue into it. Press it down with a roller and clean the excess sealer with a sponge.

13. Keep Your Decks Looking Good

Although built to withstand the elements, decks can deteriorate too. Keep an eye out for any missing screws, squeaky nails, unsteady railings or warped boards. You can make deck repair your next DIY project and take a piece-by-piece approach, repairing one element at a time. Before you know it, your deck will look as good as new.

Don’t Cut Corners in Home Repair

If you want to save some money and keep your home’s value high, don’t wait until the very last minute to repair your home’s natural wear and tear. There are numerous DIY repairs you can take care of yourself without breaking the bank. The measures mentioned above will help you avoid costly repairs in the future.

Information is accurate as of Oct. 19, 2021.

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About the Author

Daniela Rivera is a bilingual freelance content creator with an advertising and media background. She has a Communication Science degree and 10+ years of work experience as a copywriter. She specializes in generating engaging and creative concepts and texts for advertising, e-commerce, blogs, podcasts, and social media.

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