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2026 RANKINGS

Best Plumbing Contractors in Davis, CA

We compared 2 licensed plumbing contractors serving Davis based on credentials, insurance, experience, and customer reviews.

Updated March 2026

2
Total Contractors
20.0
Avg. Years Licensed
2
With Workers' Comp
Finding a reliable plumbing contractor in Davis, California requires careful consideration of credentials, experience, and local expertise. As a city known for its commitment to sustainability and quality construction standards, Davis homeowners need plumbers who understand both modern eco-friendly systems and the unique challenges of Yolo County's climate and infrastructure. Whether you're dealing with an emergency pipe burst, planning a bathroom remodel, or maintaining an older home near the UC Davis campus, the right plumbing contractor can make the difference between a job well done and costly future repairs.

Davis presents specific plumbing considerations that set it apart from other California communities. The city's hot, dry summers and mild winters create particular demands on water systems, while many homes in established neighborhoods like Old North Davis feature aging plumbing that requires specialized knowledge. Additionally, Davis's stringent building codes and water conservation requirements mean your plumbing contractor must be current on local regulations and green building practices. The city's emphasis on sustainability also means many homeowners are interested in water-efficient fixtures and systems that align with Davis's environmental values.

This comprehensive guide examines licensed plumbing contractors serving Davis in 2026, providing detailed analysis of their credentials, customer feedback, and service capabilities. We've verified each contractor's California State License Board standing, insurance coverage, and bond status, while analyzing customer reviews to understand their real-world performance. Our goal is to give you the data-driven information you need to make an informed decision about which plumbing professional is right for your specific project and budget.

Quick Comparison

# Contractor Rating Reviews Years Insured
1 North Pacific Plumbing 5 1 20 Yes
2 Steve Holm Plumbing 5 3 20 Yes

How We Ranked These Davis Plumbing Contractors

Our ranking methodology combines objective credential verification with detailed analysis of customer experience data. Every contractor featured in this guide has been verified through the California State License Board (CSLB) database to confirm active licensure, proper bonding, and workers' compensation insurance coverage. We specifically verified that each holds the appropriate C-36 Plumbing classification and maintains the required $25,000 contractor bond mandated by California law.

We analyzed customer reviews from both Google and Yelp platforms, examining not just star ratings but the substance of customer feedback. Our analysis looks at specific themes including communication quality, technical expertise, pricing transparency, timeliness, and problem-solving capability. We weight recent reviews more heavily than older ones to reflect current service quality, and we pay particular attention to how contractors handle complex situations and customer concerns.

Years of licensure factor significantly into our evaluation, as longevity often indicates both technical competence and business stability. We also consider the contractor's local presence in Davis and knowledge of Yolo County building requirements. However, we present all qualified contractors rather than creating an arbitrary numbered ranking, recognizing that the "best" choice depends on your specific project type, timeline, and budget. Each profile highlights different strengths to help you match the right contractor to your particular needs.

What to Look for in a Davis Plumbing Contractor

When hiring a plumbing contractor in Davis, verification of proper licensing is your first and most critical step. California requires plumbers to hold an active C-36 license, which involves passing rigorous technical examinations and demonstrating years of practical experience. Check the CSLB website to confirm the license is current, verify the contractor carries workers' compensation insurance, and ensure they maintain the required $25,000 bond. These protections are essential for your legal and financial security should issues arise during your project.

Davis-specific considerations should guide your selection process. Contractors familiar with Yolo County's building department procedures can navigate permit requirements efficiently, saving you time and potential headaches. Davis enforces California's progressive plumbing codes along with additional local water conservation standards, so your contractor should demonstrate knowledge of low-flow fixtures, greywater systems, and other sustainable plumbing technologies. Ask about their experience with projects similar to yours in Davis neighborhoods, particularly if you own an older home that may have galvanized pipes, outdated fixtures, or foundation issues common to the area.

Communication style and project management capabilities matter significantly for a successful plumbing project. Look for contractors who provide detailed written estimates, explain your options clearly, and maintain responsive communication throughout the job. Check whether they pull proper permits for work requiring them, as unpermitted plumbing work can create serious issues when you sell your home. Request and contact references from recent Davis-area projects, and don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about their approach to problem-solving, timeline management, and how they handle unexpected complications. The right contractor will welcome your questions and provide confident, detailed answers that demonstrate both technical knowledge and customer service commitment.

Detailed Contractor Reviews

#1

North Pacific Plumbing

License #877326 • Davis, CA

20 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
5.0
1 reviews
View Profile
North Pacific Plumbing brings two decades of licensed experience to Davis homeowners, operating with an active CSLB license (#877326) that has been in good standing for 20 years. The company maintains full workers' compensation insurance and the required $25,000 contractor bond, providing customers with complete legal protection. Based directly in Davis, North Pacific Plumbing offers the advantage of local expertise and familiarity with Yolo County building requirements and permit processes.

Customer feedback highlights the technical expertise and educational approach of their lead plumber, Preston. A recent five-star review from April 2025 specifically praised Preston's ability to handle multiple plumbing issues simultaneously, noting that "he immediately went to work" and describing him as "a GEM" who "loves to teach and does perfect work." This teaching approach can be particularly valuable for homeowners who want to understand their plumbing systems and make informed decisions about repairs versus replacements.

North Pacific Plumbing maintains a perfect 5-star rating on Google based on verified customer feedback. The company appears well-suited for homeowners dealing with multiple plumbing issues who value thorough explanations and educational communication alongside quality workmanship. Their long licensing history suggests stability and sustained technical competence, while their Davis location means they understand local water systems, common issues in area homes, and the specific challenges presented by the region's climate and infrastructure. Contact them at (530) 845-1121 or visit northpacificplumbing.com.
#2

Steve Holm Plumbing

License #875649 • Davis, CA

20 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
5.0
3 reviews
View Profile
Steve Holm Plumbing operates under license #875649, which has been active with the California State License Board for 20 years, demonstrating two decades of verified professional experience. The company maintains full workers' compensation coverage and the state-required $25,000 bond, ensuring proper protection for both workers and homeowners. Based in Davis, Steve Holm brings local knowledge and accessibility to plumbing projects throughout the Yolo County area.

Customer reviews emphasize Steve Holm's willingness to tackle complex projects that other contractors decline. A detailed five-star review from April 2022 specifically noted that "several plumbers wouldn't do the job I wanted" because it was "too complicated," but Steve Holm "said no problem, he's done it all before." This expertise with challenging installations and repairs makes the company particularly valuable for homeowners with unusual plumbing configurations or difficult technical requirements. The same reviewer noted that response times for callbacks could be improved, providing balanced perspective on the service experience.

With a perfect 5-star rating across three Google reviews, including a concise "top notch" endorsement from September 2023, Steve Holm Plumbing demonstrates consistent customer satisfaction. The company appears especially well-suited for homeowners with technically complex plumbing projects, older homes requiring specialized knowledge, or situations where previous contractors have been unable or unwilling to complete the work. Their 20-year licensing history and Davis location provide the experience and local expertise necessary for navigating challenging plumbing scenarios. Reach Steve Holm Plumbing at (530) 902-5000.

How We Rank Contractors

Licensing & Insurance

Active CSLB license, workers' comp coverage, and bond amounts verified.

Experience

Years of licensed operation in California, demonstrating longevity.

Customer Reviews

Google & Yelp ratings weighted for consistent positive feedback over time.

Priority Score

Our algorithm combines all factors into a single score, updated regularly.

Our comprehensive evaluation process for Davis plumbing contractors begins with thorough verification through the California State License Board's online database. We confirm that each contractor holds an active C-36 Plumbing license, which requires passing both law and trade examinations plus demonstrating four years of journeyman-level experience. We verify current workers' compensation insurance coverage, which protects homeowners from liability if workers are injured on their property, and confirm the required $25,000 contractor bond is active and in good standing. These credential checks are performed within 30 days of publication to ensure accuracy.

Our review analysis process examines customer feedback from Google and Yelp platforms, focusing on substantive comments rather than just numerical ratings. We read each review in full to identify specific themes including technical competence, communication quality, pricing transparency, punctuality, cleanliness, and problem-solving ability. We note both positive highlights and any concerns raised by customers, looking for patterns across multiple reviews rather than weighing isolated incidents too heavily. Recent reviews receive greater weight in our analysis, as they better reflect current service quality, staffing, and business practices. We calculate average ratings but also consider total review volume, recognizing that a larger sample size provides more reliable data.

Our evaluation also considers years of continuous licensure as an indicator of business stability and sustained technical competence in an industry where many contractors fail within their first few years. We note each contractor's location and service area to help readers find providers with genuine local expertise in Davis and familiarity with Yolo County building requirements. We do not accept payment for inclusion or ranking position, and we do not generate fake reviews or inflate ratings. Our goal is to present objective, verified information that helps homeowners make informed decisions based on their specific needs, project requirements, and personal priorities. We encourage readers to conduct their own additional research, obtain multiple quotes, and check current CSLB records before making final hiring decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does plumbing cost in Davis?
Plumbing costs in Davis typically align with broader Northern California pricing, though they may run slightly higher than the state average due to the region's cost of living and demand for experienced contractors. Basic service calls generally range from $100 to $200, with hourly rates for licensed plumbers typically falling between $90 and $150 per hour depending on the complexity of work and time of day. Emergency after-hours service commands premium rates, often 1.5 to 2 times standard pricing.

Common projects have varying price ranges: toilet repairs typically cost $150-$400, while complete toilet replacement runs $300-$800 including the fixture. Water heater installation averages $1,200-$3,500 depending on whether you choose tank or tankless models, with tankless systems commanding higher upfront costs but offering long-term efficiency benefits important in Davis's hot climate. Leak repairs vary dramatically from $150 for simple fixes to several thousand dollars for extensive pipe replacement in older Davis homes. Drain cleaning generally costs $150-$400, while more extensive sewer line work can reach $3,000-$10,000 for complete replacement. Always obtain detailed written estimates from multiple licensed contractors before proceeding with significant plumbing work, and ask whether the quote includes permits, which are required for many plumbing projects in Davis.
Do I need a permit for plumbing work in Davis?
Most significant plumbing work in Davis requires permits issued by the City of Davis Building Division, which enforces California Plumbing Code along with local amendments. Permits are generally required for water heater replacement, new fixture installation, re-piping projects, sewer line work, and any plumbing modifications that involve opening walls or changing system configurations. Minor repairs like replacing a faucet, toilet internals, or fixing a small leak typically don't require permits.

The permit process ensures work meets safety standards and allows for proper inspection. Licensed contractors typically handle permit applications as part of their service, though homeowners can pull permits for their own work. Permit fees vary based on project scope, generally ranging from $100 to several hundred dollars for residential plumbing work. The City of Davis Building Division is located at 23 Russell Boulevard and can be reached at (530) 757-5716 for specific permit questions. Never skip required permits, as unpermitted work can create serious issues when selling your home, may void insurance coverage if problems arise, and could result in fines requiring expensive corrective measures.
What should I ask a plumbing contractor before hiring?
Before hiring a plumbing contractor in Davis, ask to see their current California contractor's license and verify the number through the CSLB website yourself. Confirm they carry workers' compensation insurance and general liability coverage, and ask for certificates of insurance if the project is significant. Question their specific experience with your type of project and request references from recent similar work in the Davis area that you can contact directly.

Ask whether they will pull necessary permits and include permit costs in their estimate, or if you'll need to handle permits separately. Request a detailed written estimate that itemizes labor, materials, and any additional fees, and clarify their payment schedule—reputable contractors never demand full payment upfront. Question their timeline for starting and completing your project, and ask what might cause delays and how they handle unexpected complications or cost overruns.

Inquire about warranties on both their labor and the materials or fixtures they install, as quality contractors stand behind their work typically for at least one year. Ask who will actually be performing the work and whether they use subcontractors or employees. Find out their communication practices: who is your point of contact, how quickly they typically return calls, and how they handle questions or concerns during the project. Finally, ask if they're familiar with Davis building codes and water conservation requirements, particularly if you're interested in sustainable plumbing solutions that align with the city's environmental priorities.
How do I verify a contractor's license in California?
Verifying a contractor's license in California is straightforward using the California State License Board's online search tool at cslb.ca.gov. Click on "License Search" and enter either the contractor's license number or their business name. The search results will show the license status (Active, Inactive, or Suspended), the license classification (C-36 for plumbers), issue date, and expiration date.

The detailed license record shows the contractor's bonding status, workers' compensation insurance information, and any disciplinary actions or complaints filed against them. Pay attention to the "Applicant Information" section which lists the personnel responsible for the company's operations. Check whether any bonds are on file and current, as the $25,000 contractor bond is required by California law and provides you with recourse if work is incomplete or defective.

The CSLB database also shows any legal actions, complaints, or arbitrations associated with the license. While a single old complaint doesn't necessarily disqualify an otherwise solid contractor, patterns of problems should raise red flags. You can also call the CSLB at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752) to verify information by phone. Always perform this verification yourself rather than simply accepting a contractor's word that they're properly licensed and bonded.
What's the best time of year for plumbing work in Davis?
Davis's Mediterranean climate makes most times of year suitable for plumbing work, though certain seasons offer specific advantages. Fall and spring provide the most comfortable working conditions with moderate temperatures, which can be particularly relevant for extensive projects requiring outdoor work on main lines or water heaters located outside. These shoulder seasons also tend to be less busy for contractors, potentially offering more flexible scheduling and sometimes slightly better pricing.

Winter is actually an excellent time for indoor plumbing projects in Davis, as the mild wet season rarely creates weather-related delays and contractors often have greater availability. This is ideal timing for water heater replacement, bathroom remodels, or re-piping projects. However, be aware that winter rains occasionally reveal leaks or drainage issues that create emergency situations and increase demand.

Summer's intense heat in Davis makes outdoor plumbing work more challenging and can stress older water systems, sometimes revealing problems that require urgent attention. While emergency availability is essential year-round, summer also sees increased demand for irrigation system work. For non-emergency projects, consider scheduling during off-peak times when contractors may offer better availability and pricing, but never delay emergency repairs regardless of season.
Selecting the right plumbing contractor in Davis requires balancing multiple factors: verified credentials, relevant experience, customer satisfaction, and alignment with your specific project needs. The contractors featured in this guide all maintain active California licenses with 20 years of verified experience, carry proper insurance and bonding, and demonstrate customer satisfaction through positive reviews. Each brings different strengths to the table, from educational communication styles to expertise with complex technical challenges, allowing you to match a contractor's capabilities to your particular situation.

Davis homeowners benefit from choosing contractors with local expertise who understand Yolo County's building requirements, the city's water conservation priorities, and common issues affecting homes in different Davis neighborhoods. Whether you're dealing with an emergency repair, planning a significant renovation, or maintaining an older home's plumbing systems, working with properly licensed and insured professionals protects both your property investment and your legal liability. The credential verification and review analysis provided here gives you a starting point, but your own due diligence remains essential.

We encourage you to use the contractor information provided to request quotes from multiple plumbers, ask detailed questions about their approach to your specific project, and verify their current license status through the CSLB website. Compare not just pricing but communication style, project timelines, warranty offerings, and your overall comfort level with each contractor. The comparison tools and verified data in this guide are designed to streamline your research process, helping you move forward with confidence toward a successful plumbing project that meets Davis's high standards for quality workmanship and sustainable building practices.

Related Pages

Data Sources: License information from California CSLB. Ratings and reviews from Google. Rankings updated regularly.

This ranking is based on publicly available information and our proprietary scoring algorithm. We recommend getting multiple quotes and verifying all credentials directly before hiring.

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