If you're working on an old fixer-upper, then the chances are you're going to have to have your plumbing dealt with at some stage, especially if the property has old plumbing that hasn't been maintained or upgraded over the years. Getting old plumbing up to standard may be one of your more significant and unpredictable expenses—after all, you won't know how much work really needs to be done until you get going.

When you start to talk to plumbing contractors about jobs that need doing, you may find that some quote fixed rates while others charge by the hour. Which is the best option for you?

The Difference Between Hourly and Fixed Rate Plumbing

If a plumber quotes an hourly rate, then you'll typically pay a call-out fee followed by a rate for every hour, or part of an hour, that the plumber works on the job. Plumbers that charge fixed rates quote you a flat fee for the entire job in advance.

With an hourly rate, you won't know exactly how much a job will cost until it is done, although the plumber should be able to give you a rough time estimate. If you opt for a fixed rate quote, you'll know what the job will cost you from the get go.

Overall project costs for both hourly and fixed rate quotes may increase if your plumber has to use unexpected parts or if the job scope changes once the plumber starts work. Even an easy job can turn into something more complex if your plumber finds that other work needs to be done behind the scenes. It's worth adding extra to your plumbing budget to factor this in.

Which Rate Is Best for a Fixer-Upper?

There isn't a one-size fits all solution here. Your choice between an hourly or fixed rate plumber may come down to the home renovations that you need to have done and the condition of the property's plumbing.

For example, a quick and easy job may work well with an hourly rate; however, if your fixer-upper has very old plumbing that doesn't work right or that hasn't been upgraded in years, then any plumbing job could take more time than you and your plumber initially think. If you're paying an hourly rate, this might increase your costs; if you accepted a fixed-rate quote, this wouldn't be so much of an issue.

To find the best cost for plumbing jobs in your fixer-upper, get a few contractors in to give you quotes. This should give you an idea of overall costs, potential problems that might increase your bill and the differences between hourly and fixed rate costs for the project.