How Much Does a Plumber Cost in Ontario in 2026?
Most Ontario plumbers charge between $110 and $145 per hour, while after-hours service can cost between $200 and $350. The final cost, however, varies depending on job complexity, fixtures needing replacement, the type of pipes your property uses, and your location.
Plumber hourly rates in Ontario are likely the first thing you think of when calling for plumbing services. Project costs can be confusing because labour rates swing widely across Canada. Prices change based on your location, the type of repair needed, the urgency of the issue, and whether replacement parts are involved. All these can mean a difference of hundreds, sometimes even thousands.
It helps to understand the factors that affect pricing so you don’t get roped into paying inflated fees. Quality plumbing jobs don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Here’s everything to know!
What are the Average Plumber Rates in Ontario?
Plumber hourly rates in Ontario typically range from $110 to $145. If you’re calling outside of regular business hours, however, expect to pay a higher premium. Emergency services typically cost between $200 and $350 per hour. The higher costs cover getting an immediate response, hiring extra staff, and paying overtime, in addition to the project work itself.
| Service Type | Plumber Rate (Ontario) |
| Standard plumbing labour (regular hours) | $110 to $145/hr |
| Emergency or after-hours service call | $200 to $350/hr |
| Diagnostic or inspection fee | $90 to $150 (often waived if repair is approved) |
| Apprentice/helper labour | $50 to $80/hr |
Plumbing work typically costs more than hiring a handyperson. Several factors influence plumbing rates. However, the primary reason is that Ontario plumbers are required to undergo formal training, including apprenticeship, Red Seal certification, and provincial exams.
Certified plumbers adhere to various code regulations when working with drinking water, gas lines, and drainage systems. Professional expertise is essential. Inexpensive, non-compliant plumbing work can lead to mould, leaks, contamination, or structural damage.
Plumber Service Cost Examples for Common Plumbing Jobs in Ontario
Although job complexity always influences the final bill, most plumbers and plumbing companies follow similar price patterns for standard services. These examples give you a realistic idea of what you might pay for a plumbing job in Ontario and its surrounding regions.
Clogged Drain or Blocked Sink
Avg. Hourly Plumber Clogged Drain Cost: $150 to $350
Standard blockages, such as hair, soap scum, and food debris, are usually cleared with a handheld auger or drain snake. The costs rise with issues deep in the main line. In these cases, plumbers would need motorized augers, hydro-jetting, or camera inspections to access cleanouts.
Other cost factors include the materials used to make your pipes. Cast-iron or clay pipes, common in older homes, are complicated to clean because they’re prone to corrosion and shifting.
| When Should You Call a Plumber for a Clogged Drain? |
Try using a plunger for minor clogs, but call a professional if you notice any of the following warning signs:
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Book Clogged Drain Plumbing Service
Toilet Installation or Replacement
Avg. Plumber Toilet Installation Cost per Hour: $180 to $350 (labour only)
Labour cost for toilet installation, repair, or replacement generally covers:
- removing the old toilet
- cleaning the flange
- installing the wax ring
- securing the new fixture
The job becomes more difficult and costly if the shutoff valve is corroded or seized. Likewise, your plumber might have to install an extender or repair kit if your fixture’s flange is cracked or uneven.
Note, however, that your total cost will largely consist of whatever materials your plumbers need to provide. The most expensive service is a toilet replacement. Modern models with integrated bidets, automatic flushing, heated seats, and other advanced features can cost several thousand dollars, driving the total plumber cost to replace a toilet.
| When to call a plumber for a toilet repair or replacement? |
Apart from minor clogging in overflowing toilets, most of these toilet issues would require the expertise of a licensed plumber:
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Source: Unsplash
Burst Pipe or Leak Repair
Avg. Hourly Plumber Service Cost: $200 to $500
In Ontario, burst pipes are extremely common in the winter. When temperatures drop below -6°C, uninsulated pipes in basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls can freeze and split.
Minor leaks, such as pinholes, loose fittings, and dripping joints, usually require simple tightening or patching. At most, some couplings may need to be replaced.
However, expect additional costs if pipes inside drywall, behind vanities, or under floors burst. They’ll likely need wall cutting, pipe section replacements, moisture checks for mould prevention, and cleanup labour. The total cost could range from $500 to $1,500.
| When Should You Call a Plumber for Pipe Repairs? |
Whether you’re facing a major or minor leak, it’s best to call for professional assistance if you notice the following:
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Book Frozen & Burst Pipe Repair Service
Water Heater Repair
Avg. Hourly Plumber Charges:
- $100 to $600 for minor repairs
- $2,000 to $3,000 for more complex repairs
Hot water tanks are one of the most important plumbing systems during the crisp, cold winters of Ontario. Repairs typically cover thermostat issues, heating element replacements, sediment buildup flushes, and minor valve repairs. They’re generally not too expensive, often ranging from $100 to $600.
Costs usually increase when sediment accumulation damages the tank lining or when electrical or gas components need to be replaced. In these cases, you may need to spend around $2,000 to $3,000.
| When Should You Call a Plumber for a Water Heater Repair? |
To get a better idea of what services you need done, call for an assessment if the following applies to your heating system:
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What Drives Plumbing Costs Up in Ontario
The price range for plumbing jobs can be quite wide. How can the same service cost two to three times as much? To help you set more realistic expectations, here are some factors that affect the total cost of most projects:
License and Certification
Double-check if you’re working with a master plumber. Unlike typical journeypersons, master plumbers have worked more hours on the job and passed additional exams to demonstrate their advanced skills in several areas. Hiring them means paying more for their experience.
Note: Master Plumber requirements vary by province, and there’s no single national standard. The title doesn’t automatically place someone above every licensed plumber, but it generally reflects added experience.
Complexity of the Job
Repair services can differ in complexity once the plumber sees the root cause. Let’s say you have a slow drain. Clearing blockages caused by soap scum or hair is a quick and inexpensive process. But if tree roots are the cause, your plumber’s cost per hour might spike exponentially.
Emergency Timing and After-Hours Work
Plumbing repair costs increase when you’re requesting emergency services. Plumbers would have to mobilize their team outside of regular business hours to provide urgent assistance.
That said, don’t let the higher emergency plumber cost stop you from calling for help. Ignoring emergencies like burst pipes or sewage pump leaks will only lead to far more damage and more costly repairs.
Accessibility and Building Type
For residential jobs, plumbers will assess the location of your pipes. They’ll charge more if they have to work in cramped crawl spaces, finished basements, or tiled walls. The same rule applies to fragile plumbing materials that require extra care and effort.
Commercial buildings, on the other hand, typically involve larger systems. With heavier plumbing fixtures, backflow devices, and stricter permitting requirements, expect to incur higher costs for commercial plumbing repairs.
Materials and Fixtures
The type of pipe you need will also affect cost. For instance, copper is more durable than PEX tubing, but it’s also more expensive. If your system heavily relies on copper, your material costs will quickly increase the total project cost.
Tip: This doesn’t mean you should stick to cheap materials. Be mindful of the materials your plumbing contractor adds to your invoice.
Travel and Location
Travel fees vary across Ontario. Plumbers in dense urban areas, such as Toronto or Mississauga, typically have shorter travel times and higher base labour rates. In contrast, rural areas may charge additional mileage due to the greater distance between jobs.
Flat-Rate vs Hourly Pricing: Which One Saves You Money?
Will you save money when plumbers charge flat rates, or is hourly billing more cost-effective? It depends on the job type.
Flat-rate pricing offers cost certainty, but hourly pricing is often cheaper for jobs with unknown factors. If your plumber doesn’t know what’s causing the plumbing issues that arise, hourly billing prevents flat-rate “risk padding.” Objectively assess the diagnosis yourself before proceeding with any given suggestion.
What plumbing services benefit from hourly rates?
Here are some services that best suit hourly rates:
- diagnostic or investigative work
- complex repairs with unknown pipe conditions
- homes with outdated plumbing or undocumented renovations
What plumbing services are ideal for flat-rate pricing?
Flat-rate pricing works best for standardized plumbing jobs with predictable labour and parts. Upfront costs will help you compare multiple plumbers in Ontario more easily. It works well for the following:
- routine drain cleaning
- toilet or faucet replacements
- appliance hookups (e.g., dishwasher, washing machine)
- basic fixture swaps
FAQs About Hourly Rate for Plumber in Ontario
How much does a plumber cost to fix a pipe?
If fixing a leaky faucet, broken pipe, or clogged drain, repair costs are typically under $200. More severe plumbing issues that involve the water main or drain line can cost anywhere from $400 to $3,000, depending on job complexity.
How much should it cost to unblock a drain?
Repairing a clogged sink or pipe typically costs between $162 and $390. If the blockage is tied to other plumbing issues involving the water main, drain line, or sewer line, your total cost may increase by $1,000 to $3,000.
How long does it take a plumber to clear a clog?
For minor blockages, the entire project should only take one or two hours. However, complex projects that require additional diagnostics or multiple passes with drain-cleaning equipment, such as deep main-line clogs or tree root obstructions, may take anywhere from one to three days to repair.
In Summary
- Plumber hourly rates in Ontario range from $110 to $145, while emergency plumber costs typically range from $200 to $350 due to additional staffing, overtime, and immediate response requirements.
- Common plumbing jobs follow predictable price patterns. Clogged drains, toilet replacements, burst pipes, and hot water tank repairs vary widely in terms of severity and location.
- Total cost is influenced by licensing, job complexity, timing, accessibility, materials, and travel distance.
- Flat-rate pricing is suitable for standardized jobs, while hourly billing is more suitable for repairs with uncertain conditions.
- Knowing typical ranges and warning signs helps Ontario homeowners avoid unnecessary fees and call for professional help before damage spreads.
Get Fair, Accurate Pricing for Plumbing Projects With PlumbWize
Plumbing costs vary depending on the type of job, urgency, and location. Instead of guessing hourly rates or worrying about hidden fees, call the professionals at PlumbWize. We’re trusted local plumbers with 60+ years of combined industry experience.
Whether you need a quick check-up or emergency plumbing services, our team is ready to help. Call our 24-hour hotline for a free, accurate estimate on any plumbing job. We’ll give you the clear, upfront pricing and quality service you deserve!
Zak and Jay
OwnerZak and Jay are licensed plumbers proudly serving Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton areas. With over 20 years of experience each, they specialize in residential and commercial plumbing solutions, including general repairs, drain cleaning, new installations, and 24/7 emergency services. As certified professionals, Zak and Jay are committed to providing reliable, honest, and high-quality workmanship. Their dedication to customer care has earned them a reputation as trusted plumbing experts in the Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton area.
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