Hood's Plumbing: What to Know Before You Call

Hood's Plumbing is a family-owned plumbing company serving the Lowcountry since 1978

Hood's Plumbing operates out of the Charleston area and handles residential and commercial plumbing work. The company is locally owned and has been in business for decades, which means the people answering the phone know the region's water systems, soil conditions, and building codes firsthand. They work on everything from routine repairs to new construction and renovations.

Before calling any plumber, it helps to know what Hood's does, what they charge, and what to expect when they arrive. This guide walks you through that information so you can decide whether to contact them and what to have ready when you do.

Key Takeaways

• Hood's Plumbing is a Charleston-area company that handles residential and commercial plumbing, with over 40 years in business.
• You should have your address, a description of the problem, and access to your water shut-off valve ready before you call.
• Plumbing emergencies like burst pipes or backed-up sewage lines often require same-day or after-hours service, which typically costs more than scheduled appointments.
• Getting a written estimate before work begins protects you and gives you a clear picture of what the job will cost.
• Local plumbers like Hood's know South Carolina's building codes and can often spot problems that affect resale value or insurance.

What Hood's Plumbing typically handles

Hood's takes on the full range of plumbing work: leaks, drain cleaning, water heater repair and replacement, fixture installation, and new construction plumbing. They also work on septic systems and sewer line issues, which are common in rural and semi-rural parts of the Lowcountry where municipal sewage lines do not reach every property.

If you have a specific problem—a running toilet, slow drains, no hot water, or water backing up into your home—Hood's can diagnose it. They can also help with preventive work, like camera inspections of drain lines to catch problems before they become emergencies. Knowing what category your problem falls into helps you describe it clearly when you call.

How to prepare before calling

Have your address and phone number ready, along with a clear description of what is happening. Instead of "my plumbing is broken," say "water is leaking from under the sink" or "the toilet in the master bath won't stop running." The more specific you are, the better the dispatcher can estimate how long the visit will take and whether they need to bring special equipment.

Know where your water shut-off valve is located. In an emergency—a burst pipe, a major leak—you may need to turn off the water yourself before the plumber arrives. Most homes have a main shut-off valve near the street or at the foundation. If you do not know where yours is, find it now, before you have a crisis. Also have your account number or previous invoice handy if you have used Hood's before.

Emergency service versus scheduled appointments

Plumbing emergencies—burst pipes, sewage backing up into the house, no water at all—often need same-day or after-hours attention. Hood's, like most plumbing companies, charges more for emergency calls than for work scheduled during regular business hours. The exact difference varies, but emergency service typically includes a higher service call fee and may include overtime rates.

If your problem is not an emergency—a slow drain, a leaky faucet, a water heater that is aging but still working—you can schedule an appointment during regular hours and usually pay less. Knowing the difference helps you decide how urgently to call and what to budget for.

Understanding the estimate and pricing

When a plumber arrives, they will assess the problem and give you an estimate for the work. A written estimate should include the cost of labor, materials, and any service call fee. Do not hesitate to ask questions: What exactly needs to be done? Why? Are there less expensive alternatives? How long will it take?

South Carolina does not set statewide plumbing rates, so prices vary by company and by job complexity. A simple repair costs far less than replacing a water heater or fixing a sewer line. If the estimate seems high, you can ask Hood's to explain the breakdown, or you can call another plumber for a second opinion. Most plumbers expect this and will not be offended.

What happens after the work is done

Once the work is complete, ask for an invoice that lists what was done, what materials were used, and the total cost. Keep this for your records—it matters for insurance claims, home sales, and future repairs. If you had to turn off your water during the emergency, the plumber will turn it back on and check that everything is working.

If the work involved permits—like a new water heater installation or a major repair—Hood's should handle the paperwork or let you know what you need to do. Some municipalities require inspections after plumbing work, and the plumber can tell you whether that applies to your job.

When to call Hood's versus handling it yourself

Some plumbing problems are safe to tackle yourself: a running toilet often just needs a new flapper kit from the hardware store, and a slow drain sometimes clears with a plunger or a drain snake. But anything involving the main water line, the sewer line, water heater work, or gas lines should go to a licensed plumber. South Carolina requires plumbers to be licensed, and that license means they have passed exams and know the state's building codes.

If you are not sure whether a problem is a DIY job or a professional job, call Hood's and describe it. They can tell you over the phone whether it is something you can handle or whether they need to come out. There is no harm in asking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find Hood's Plumbing's phone number and hours?

Search online for "Hood's Plumbing Charleston" or check your local phone directory. Most plumbing companies list their hours and emergency contact information on their website or voicemail. If you have used them before, check your old invoice for the number.

What should I do if I have a plumbing emergency at night or on a weekend?

Call Hood's emergency line—most plumbing companies have one. Be prepared to pay an emergency service fee on top of the regular cost. In the meantime, turn off your water at the main valve if there is a leak, and use towels or buckets to contain water and prevent damage to your home.

Do I need a permit for plumbing work?

It depends on the work. Simple repairs usually do not need permits, but water heater replacement, new fixture installation, and sewer line work often do. Your local building department or the plumber can tell you what applies to your job. Hood's can advise you on this when you call.

What if I think the estimate is too high?

Ask the plumber to explain the breakdown—labor, materials, and fees. You can also call other plumbers for estimates to compare. There is no obligation to hire the first company you call, and getting multiple estimates is a normal part of the process.

Can Hood's help with water quality or filtration systems?

Many plumbers install and maintain water filters and treatment systems. Call and ask whether Hood's offers this service. If they do not, they can often recommend someone who does.