Most people never really consider an emergency plumber until water is running down the stairs or a pipe’s swan song is singing under their kitchen sink. Panic strikes. Your floor can develop into a swimming pool. You grab your phone without considering the cost approaching you. There is where some knowledge can save your dollars as well as your nerves.

So, on a Sunday at 2 a.m., you call an emergency plumber and pay what? Be ready; rates can be double or even treble what you would have anticipated during business hours. For an emergency plumber working in the United States, the typical call-out cost ranges from $100 to $200 merely for them to visit your door. Furthermore depending on where you reside, the company, and—let’s be honest—how much of a mess you have, hourly costs can go from $70 to $250. A busted pipe, for instance, might cost more than a leaky faucet could have fixed.

Why then do these expenses suddenly rise so sharply? Emergency calls include someone leaving their weekend or holiday, getting out of bed, driving across town in the dark of night. Parts may also have to be obtained at unusual times. One pays a premium for overtime pay and instantaneous reaction. Think of it as wrench hazard pay. Remember too that materials and parts are usually additional. Should I replace my water heater? Depending on your pick, you are looking at a bill ranging from $1,000 to many thousand.

Let’s discuss openness. Ask about additional expenses up front always. Even if the matter at first glance a head-scratcher, a good plumber will offer you at least a ballpark estimate. Sometimes the last bill shows travel fees, holiday surcharges, disposal fees for old parts. Don’t be shy; at the very least, acquire specifics in text or writing.