How Much Does a Plumber Cost in London? (2026 Guide)
·Updated on ·7 min read· Plumber· London, ON
M
Mike RichardsonMaster Plumber
Published March 5, 2026
Key Takeaway
Average plumber costs in London, Ontario for 2026. Compare prices from licensed pros. Free matching in 60 seconds — see who's available today.
How Much Does a Plumber Cost in London? (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer
In 2026, London homeowners can expect to pay between $100 and $350 CAD for standard plumbing service calls, with the average project costing approximately $225 CAD. Keep in mind that these prices reflect labor and basic diagnostics; parts, materials, and 13% HST are typically billed in addition. Local demand often spikes during London’s harsh winter freeze-thaw cycles, which can temporarily drive up emergency call-out rates.
Plumber Cost Breakdown in London
Plumbing costs in London generally align with broader Ontario provincial averages, though local competition remains healthy with over 187 professional contractors operating in the city. When budgeting for your repairs, remember that most quotes provided by licensed pros exclude the 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which must be factored into your final invoice.
Below is a breakdown of typical service costs you might encounter in London:
Service Item
Estimated Cost Range (CAD)
Basic Service Call/Diagnostics
$100 – $180
Drain Cleaning (Standard Clog)
$150 – $300
Leaky Faucet Repair
$120 – $250
Toilet Repair/Flush Mechanism
$125 – $280
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Mike Richardson is a licensed master plumber with over 18 years of hands-on experience in residential and commercial plumbing. He specializes in water heater installations, drain systems, and emergency plumbing repairs across Ontario and the northeastern United States.
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Note: Costs represent labor and standard professional time. Emergency after-hours service may incur an additional "trip charge" or higher hourly rates.
Compared to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), London plumbing rates are generally more accessible. However, because London spans a diverse range of neighborhoods—from historic Victorian homes in Old North to newer subdivisions in Northwest London—the complexity of your home's infrastructure will significantly impact the final price. Always ask if the quote includes a warranty on labor, as many reputable London firms guarantee their work for 30 to 90 days.
What Affects Plumber Pricing in London
Several factors unique to the Forest City influence how much you will pay for plumbing services:
1. Housing Stock Age
London is home to many century-old houses, particularly in the downtown and Old South areas. These properties often feature outdated galvanized steel or lead piping, which is significantly more time-consuming to repair than modern PEX or copper systems. Plumbers must exercise extra caution, which adds to the labor time.
2. Municipal Requirements
London has specific bylaws regarding backwater valves and sewer lateral maintenance. If your plumbing issue involves an upgrade to comply with current City of London building codes, the cost will naturally be higher due to the need for permits and inspections.
3. Distance and Accessibility
With London’s geography stretching across significant distances, contractors often charge a travel fee if you live on the outskirts, such as in Byron or toward the rural fringes of Thames Centre. Additionally, if your pipes are located in tight, inaccessible crawlspaces common in older London bungalows, expect a higher labor quote.
4. Seasonal Demand
London’s climate plays a massive role in plumbing costs. During the "freeze-thaw" periods of late winter and early spring, contractors are often inundated with calls regarding burst pipes and sewer backups. During these peak times, hourly rates may lean toward the higher end of the spectrum.
5. Local Labor Market
With 187 active local contractors, London has a competitive market. However, skilled trades are in high demand across Ontario. Prices are kept in check by the sheer number of local small-to-medium-sized businesses, preventing the massive price gouging seen in less competitive, smaller towns.
Best Time to Hire a Plumber in London
The smartest time to hire a plumber in London is during the "shoulder" seasons—specifically late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is mild, meaning fewer burst pipes from freezing temperatures and less strain on municipal sewer lines.
Avoid scheduling non-emergency work during the peak of winter (January and February). When temperatures plummet in London, contractors prioritize emergency calls for frozen and burst pipes. During these months, you will find it difficult to get a plumber to your door for a routine faucet replacement, and you will certainly pay a premium if they do accept the job. By booking your upgrades or non-urgent repairs during the off-peak periods, you are more likely to secure a standard rate without "emergency surcharges."
How to Save Money on Plumber Services in London
Saving money on home maintenance doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Follow these steps to keep your costs down:
Bundle Your Projects: If you have a leaky toilet and a slow-draining sink, schedule them for the same visit. Most plumbers charge a base "trip fee" just to arrive; bundling ensures you only pay this fee once.
Get Three Quotes: Don’t settle for the first company you call. Reach out to at least three local pros through a reliable platform like GetAHomePro to compare their labor estimates.
Use Off-Peak Scheduling: Ask if the plumber offers a discount for flexible scheduling. If you can wait a few days for a non-urgent job, they might fit you in between larger projects at a reduced rate.
Check for Rebates: Keep an eye on City of London water conservation programs or Ontario-wide energy efficiency grants, which sometimes offer rebates for high-efficiency toilet or water heater upgrades.
Clear the Path: Save billable hours by ensuring the work area (e.g., under the sink or in the basement) is clear of clutter before the plumber arrives.
Finding a Licensed Plumber in London
Never hire an unlicensed individual for plumbing work in Ontario. To ensure safety and quality:
Verify Licensure: Ask to see their Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) for the trade of Plumber. In Ontario, this is issued by Skilled Trades Ontario.
Check WSIB: Ensure the contractor has active Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) coverage. If they don’t and they are injured on your property, you could potentially be held liable.
Insurance: Reputable London contractors carry a minimum of $2 million in commercial general liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance.
Local References: Check Google Reviews or ask for references from other homeowners in your specific London neighborhood.
Professional Association: Look for contractors who are members of local business associations or the Ontario Plumbing Inspectors Association, as this often signals a commitment to professional standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a plumber charge for coming to my house even if they don't fix anything?
Yes, most London plumbers charge a "diagnostic" or "trip" fee ranging from $100 to $180. This covers the cost of travel and the professional expertise required to identify the root of the problem.
Are after-hours emergency rates higher in London?
Absolutely. Emergency services performed on weekends, holidays, or after 5:00 PM often carry a "premium" hourly rate or an additional dispatch fee. If it is not a pipe bursting or active flooding, wait for regular business hours.
Should I buy the parts myself to save money?
Generally, no. Plumbers prefer to use parts they source themselves because they know they are compatible and covered by their own supply chain warranties. Many plumbers will not install customer-provided parts.
How do I know if I have a plumbing emergency?
If you have water actively leaking into your home, a sewer backup, or no running water at all, it is an emergency. A slow-dripping faucet or a sluggish drain is a maintenance issue that can wait for a standard appointment.
Do all plumbers in London require a permit?
Major renovations, such as moving a main sewer line or adding a new bathroom, require a City of London plumbing permit. A licensed plumber will handle the permit process for you, ensuring the work is inspected for safety.
Bottom Line
Plumbing costs in London generally fall between $100 and $350 CAD, with most standard repairs hovering around $225 CAD plus HST. By understanding local demand and vetting your contractors properly, you can ensure your home systems remain in top shape without overpaying. Ready to find a local expert? Use GetAHomePro to compare quotes from top-rated, licensed professionals in London today.