Plumbing & Irrigation in Charleston, SC

Plumbing and irrigation work in Charleston covers everything from repairing pipes in 19th-century downtown rowhouses to installing drip systems for Lowcountry gardens. Because Charleston sits at sea level on a peninsula, its homes are built over high water tables and sandy soil — which drives a specific mix of issues: slow drainage, salt intrusion in shallow wells, and corrosion on older galvanized supply lines. Typical jobs include water heater replacement, sewer line repair after flooding, irrigation system winterization in November, and tankless water heater installations in smaller historic homes where space is tight. If you own a pre-war home, expect original piping to be a mix of cast iron, copper, and sometimes lead solder on fittings. Irrigation systems are common even on small lots because summer humidity and stretches of dry heat keep landscaping crews busy from March through October.

Expect $150-$350 for basic plumbing calls in Charleston, $800-$2,500 for water heater replacement, and $3,500-$10,000 for sewer line repair (common after king-tide flooding). South Carolina licenses plumbers through the LLR Residential Builders Commission — any gas, sewer, or main supply work requires a licensed master plumber. Permits go through the City of Charleston Zoning & Planning office for work beyond a fixture swap. Irrigation systems don't require state licensing but must comply with Charleston Water System backflow prevention rules. Spring (March-May) is the busiest season for irrigation startups, so book 2-3 weeks out.