New Construction & Remodeling
Building a home or reworking a kitchen, bath, or addition? Find local plumbers who plan and run the pipes behind the walls — compare nearby pros who do new builds and remodels.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a plumber for a bathroom remodel?
For anything more than swapping a faucet, yes. If you're moving a toilet, adding a shower, relocating a sink, or opening up walls, a licensed plumber makes sure the supply lines, drains, and vents are sized and placed to code. Many remodels also need a permit and inspection, which a licensed plumber can pull and pass.
What is rough-in plumbing?
Rough-in is the stage where the pipes are run inside walls and floors before drywall, tile, or fixtures go in. It sets where every drain, water line, and vent will sit, so getting it right is critical — mistakes are hard to fix once things are closed up. A plumber ties this stage to the framing and inspection schedule.
When should I bring a plumber into a construction project?
As early as possible — ideally during design, before framing starts. A plumber can flag where fixtures can and can't go, how drains need to slope, and where the main lines will run. Looping one in early prevents redesigns and keeps the build on schedule.
Is remodeling plumbing different from a repair call?
Yes. A repair fixes something that's already installed, while remodeling and new construction involves designing and building the system from scratch or reworking a big part of it. It usually means permits, inspections, and coordination with other trades. Look for plumbers whose profiles mention new construction or remodeling experience specifically.
Do I need permits for plumbing work in a remodel?
Most of the time, yes — moving or adding pipes, drains, or fixtures usually requires a permit and one or more inspections. Rules vary by city and county, so requirements differ from place to place. A licensed local plumber will know the local code and can handle the permit process for you.
Can a plumber move my kitchen sink or island to a new spot?
Usually yes, but it depends on where the drains and vents can run. Moving a sink means extending supply lines and re-routing drainage with the right slope, which is harder on a slab foundation than over a crawlspace or basement. A licensed plumber can tell you what's feasible before you commit to the layout.
What plumbing is involved in a home addition?
It depends on what the addition includes — a new bathroom, wet bar, or laundry all need supply lines, drains, and venting tied back into the existing system. The plumber also checks whether your current main line and water heater can handle the added demand. This is design-and-build work, so bring a plumber in during planning.
How do I choose a plumber for new construction?
Look for licensed, insured plumbers who list new construction or remodeling among their specialties and are comfortable working alongside general contractors and inspectors. Ask about their experience with projects like yours and whether they handle permits. Each plumber's profile shows their specialties and service area to help you shortlist.
Should I hire a general contractor or a plumber directly?
For a full build or large remodel, a general contractor usually coordinates the trades and may bring their own plumber. For a smaller, plumbing-focused project — like adding a bathroom — you can often hire a licensed plumber directly. The directory lets you find plumbers who work both ways.
What is a plumbing riser or plumbing plan?
A plumbing plan is a drawing that shows where all the water lines, drains, and vents will run through the building. It's often required for permits and helps every trade coordinate. A plumber experienced in new construction can produce or work from these plans.
Can I choose my own fixtures and have a plumber install them?
Yes — many homeowners pick their own sinks, tubs, toilets, and faucets, then have a licensed plumber install them during the finish stage. Just confirm the fixtures are compatible with the rough-in before walls are closed. Share your selections early so the plumber can rough in to the right dimensions.
What happens if rough-in plumbing is done wrong?
Because rough-in is buried behind walls and under floors, errors like poor drain slope, wrong pipe sizing, or missing vents can cause slow drains, sewer smells, or leaks that are hard to reach later. Fixing them often means reopening finished walls. This is why the rough-in inspection stage matters and why an experienced plumber is worth finding.
How does plumbing coordinate with other trades on a build?
Plumbing has to be sequenced with framing, electrical, and HVAC so nothing conflicts inside the walls, and it has to pass inspection before insulation and drywall. Good plumbers are used to working on a construction schedule and communicating with the general contractor. Look for pros who list new construction experience.
Do I need a plumber for a kitchen remodel or can I DIY?
Cosmetic swaps like a new faucet can be DIY, but moving the sink, adding a pot filler or second sink, or relocating the dishwasher and gas range involves supply, drain, gas, and venting work that's best left to a licensed plumber. Permits often apply too. A pro also spots issues before they're sealed behind new cabinets.
How long does plumbing take in a remodel?
It varies with the scope, but plumbing usually happens in two visits — the rough-in before walls close, then the finish stage when fixtures go in. Timing also depends on inspections and how the other trades are scheduled. A plumber experienced in remodels can give you a realistic timeline for your project.
What should I ask a plumber before a remodel starts?
Ask whether they're licensed and insured, whether they'll pull the permits, how they'll sequence the work with other trades, and whether they've done projects like yours. Also confirm who's responsible for inspections. A plumber's profile and a quick conversation should answer most of these.
Can plumbers work with a slab foundation for a remodel?
Yes, but relocating drains under a concrete slab means cutting and re-pouring, which is more involved than working over a basement or crawlspace. An experienced plumber can tell you whether your layout change is practical and what the slab work involves. It's worth discussing before you finalize a design.
How do I compare plumbers for a construction project near me?
Start with licensed, insured local plumbers who list new construction or remodeling as a specialty, then compare their service areas, experience, and reviews. Reach out to a few to discuss your project and timeline. The directory lets you shortlist nearby pros and contact them directly.