The other day, we ran into a Yelp review for a local Murrieta plumbing company. The review read:
We were looking for an affordable plumbing solution and hired this company xxxxxx. “Plumbing work was great. Pricing was not fair or reasonable.
They charged us $1,051.62 to provide and install a garbage disposal. No breakdown of material or labor was provided. The technician worked 1.5 hours on the job.
We called three times to get an explanation, but we didn’t receive a callback. So customer service is bad, too. Anyway, if you use these guys, get a written estimate of labor and material with hourly rates so you don’t get ripped off, too.” This person left a one-star review, but the overall rating was 3.7.
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Here’s the reality: if the homeowner takes the time to check reviews from Google, Yelp, and Facebook, they will get a true picture of any plumbing company. This empowers them to make an educated decision without regret. Here’s an example: Angie’s List rates this same company 2.7, and Yelp rates it 3.9. Facebook does its reviews slightly differently, but they are not to be desired. Oddly enough, their Google reviews are at 4.9, and that’s all they show on their website. So, where is the disconnect? Without all the facts, it’s impossible to make a rock-solid decision on an affordable plumbing solution for my plumbing issue.
Why Are Plumbing Company Reviews So Inconsistent Across Platforms?
1. Plumbing Companies Like These Have Selective Review Solicitation
- Many large plumbing companies actively encourage customers to leave reviews only on Google. However, they are directed to do this only if they’re sure the customer had a positive experience.
- In some cases, trained technicians provide a QR code or link right after a job—“If you’re happy, please review us on Google!”
- Within that QR code or request, there is no mention of other platforms like Yelp, Angie’s List (now known as Angi), or Facebook, so fewer positive experiences are shared on those platforms. That’s where the real truth about a company is exposed.
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2. Negative Review Filtering
- Most plumbers working for larger companies are trained to monitor unhappy customers. They are told to address their issues before they leave a review, and sometimes, they even offer discounts or refunds in exchange for not posting a negative review. There are two issues here: first, no company should work for reviews but provide the services they deserve and pay for. Second, no one should ever have to discount an order for a positive review.
- Some plumbing companies train their plumbers NOT to ask for a review if a customer seems unhappy.
3. Platform Preferences
- Google reviews show up directly in search results, so companies focus their efforts there for maximum marketing impact.
- Yelp and Angi have their filters and policies, making it harder to remove or “drown out” negative feedback.
- Anyone can leave Facebook reviews, and they are often less curated.
4. Displaying Only the Best
- Plumbing companies almost always showcase their Google review feed. Because their reviews are verified, they rarely partner with other review companies, such as Yelp, Angie’s List, or Facebook.
- This creates a skewed picture for website visitors.
How Homeowners Can Get the Real Story
A. Look Beyond the Website
- Always check multiple review platforms. If you check all the major review platforms and see a company with 4.9 stars on Google but 3.9 on Yelp, 2.7 on Angi, and terrible Facebook feedback, that’s a red flag.
B. Read the Reviews Themselves
- Don’t just trust what review companies post; check out the reviews and read what customers are actually saying.
- Watch for patterns: For example, are there complaints about price, communication, upselling, or quality?
- In some cases, reviews are purchased, or a staff member or friend writes one to push old, bad reviews out of the public eye.
C. Check How Companies Respond to Negative Reviews
- Are they polite, action-oriented, transparent, or defensive and dismissive?
Why Does This Matter for Affordable Plumbing?
- True affordability isn’t just about the initial price—it’s about value, honesty, and quality service.
- A company manipulating reviews may also cut corners elsewhere.
- Trust your gut, do your research, and don’t be swayed by a glowing Google feed alone.
You could even add a short “How to Spot Authentic Reviews” checklist in your blog:
- Are reviews detailed or vague?
- Do reviews mention specific employees, locations, or situations?
- Is there a balance of positive and negative feedback?
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Why Do Some Plumbing Companies Charge so Much More than Others
Why Is There Such a Big Difference in Plumbing Prices?
1. Company Overhead
- Large Companies: Overhead drives the costs up for consumers. Plumbing companies that have extensive overhead, such as office staff, fleet vehicles, call centers, extensive insurance, and huge marketing budgets. All these costs get passed along to the customer.
- Small, local companies —family-owned or independent contractors—usually have much lower overhead. Small companies that work out of a home or small shop spend less on advertising, which allows them to offer more affordable plumbing services.
2. Business Model & Target Market
- Premium or High-End Plumbers: Some companies position themselves as the “white glove” option, offering extras like shoe covers, branded trucks, and advanced scheduling systems. Their customers pay for a polished experience.
- Budget-Friendly Plumbers: Others focus on affordable plumbing solutions by eliminating unnecessary extras while still delivering top-notch work. They often attract price-conscious homeowners.
3. Quality of Materials & Workmanship
- Some companies use top-of-the-line fixtures and parts, while others opt for budget-friendly, yet code-compliant, options. The quality of both labor and materials affects the price, and sometimes the long-term outcome.
4. Licensing, Insurance, & Training
- Reputable, licensed, and insured plumbers usually cost more, but they also protect you as a homeowner. Affordable plumbing solutions do not equal poor quality or cheap work. “Cheap” plumbers might skip proper licensing or ongoing training, which can lead to costly mistakes. Remember, affordable plumbing doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg. So, do your diligence and find the right plumber.
5. Scope of Work & Pricing Transparency
- Flat Rate vs. Hourly: Some plumbers charge a flat rate for common jobs, while others bill by the hour or add extra fees for any unexpected issues that arise during the job.
- Hidden Fees: Always ask for an itemized estimate and clarify what’s included. Some companies quote low prices to win business, then add fees for “disposal,” “travel,” or “emergency service.”
6. Location & Service Area
- In-demand areas or cities with a higher cost of living generally see higher service rates.
- Some companies add travel fees for homes outside their core area.
7. Emergency & After-Hours Rates
- After-hours, weekend, and holiday calls almost always cost more, sometimes significantly so.
The Bottom Line: You Can Find an Affordable Plumbing Solution
High prices don’t always mean higher quality, and the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Look for a transparent plumbing company that clearly explains its pricing and is upfront about any potential additional costs. So, if you’re looking for an honest plumber in Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Sun City, or the Inland Empire, always check for licensing, insurance, and a local reputation.
