Ask Howe

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is plumbing so expensive?
Bill Howe Plumbing, Inc. continues to aggressively keep their costs in check by working from the high volume lowest consumer cost objective. We know you feel the pinch of high gas prices, rising insurance costs and power rates in your household. That’s why we only incrementally increase our rates over the years, maintaining that the best cost to customer service ratio. Despite our costs as a business going up just the same as your household, our customer service plan has continued to allow us to grow with repeat business. By not using gimmicks like “all day high rates” to hide the ‘no’ overtime exaggerations or up-selling products to increase your costs, our customer satisfaction has fueled our growth as a company. With Bill Howe Plumbing, you get a choice to save money by having your service scheduled during our regular hours, when it will save you money.
Why should I select Bill Howe Plumbing?
Bill Howe Plumbing has been following a different business model since 1980. Many high profile plumbing companies have come and gone in the last 30 years. Most of those worked on the theory of charging premium rates for any service done. Repeat and word-of-mouth business was ignored to make as much as possible. Eventually the customer base is depleted as a bad reputation is built. They sell off their assets and sometimes even return with a new name, but same old practices. Bill Howe Plumbing was started to meet the value-demanding property management companies. The Howe family built a business embracing these customers’ needs. It soon became clear that home owners needed the same cost advantages. Unlike national chain plumbing companies, the Howe family calls San Diego their home. There is no giant corporation headquarters demanding high prices to sacrifice future business. There are no stockholders demanding a greater return, just the Howe family working to keep your future business and hopefully your recommendation to your neighbors too.
Can you install my item?
We will be happy to install your provided fixture to code. We do need you to sign our “Plumber Provided” waiver that warranties our installation work but not the item you provided. Over the years, large warehouse stores have been able to offer their customers enormous discounts that we cannot match. But if, for instance, that faucet turns out to be defective and floods your kitchen and the condo below you, their remedy is to hand you a replacement faucet. When we supply the materials, not only are you getting the item delivered to you, should there be a rare manufactures defect, you will also be covered from additional damage. Bill Howe Plumbing gives you the choice to make your own responsible decision.
What about designer items?
For the special remodel or to match any décor, we have available many lines of plumber grade fixtures. Unlike some companies who arrive with a “warehouse” on wheels to up sell you material, we carry a basic set of plumber-grade fixtures and you only pay extra for what you want to order. Not a huge inventory of expensive items you will never need nor buy.
How is my plumbing technician selected?
Based on the information you provide us when you schedule your service call, we send out an experienced technician outfitted for your work. One of our methods to save you money and keep the cost of repair down for you is to use trucks outfitted for what you need.
How soon can you get here?
With more than 50 trucks to serve you, we can usually be there the same day. We can also schedule a time that is convenient to your schedule and include a reasonable window of time. Our regular business hours are between 8 am and 5 pm. We are also on-call evenings, weekends and holidays, so call Bill Howe Plumbing anytime at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469).
How much do you charge?
Bill Howe Plumbing always provides you with a well trained professional who will personally address your need and quote you a fair price. We are happy to provide a free estimate of our very reasonable rates. While we really need to see the job to guarantee a price, our extensive experience allows us to often provide a fairly accurate phone quote. With this quote, you will see up front that Bill Howe Plumbing is offering fair prices.
Can I get a tax rebate on new plumbing products and installation?

The Federal Government is offering tax incentives on certain products and installation. Click here to get more information.

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