How to invoice as a plumber (US)

How plumbers normally break the money out

A plumber's invoice is usually a service call fee covering the first hour on site, hourly labor after that, and parts billed at cost or with a stated markup. Keeping those apart is what stops the customer asking what the total covered.

Step by step

1. 1Write down the service address and the actual fault before you leave — "no hot water, failed mixing valve" holds up far better than "water heater work" when the homeowner questions the bill three weeks later.
2. 2Put the service call fee on its own line and say what it covers. Most disputes come from a customer assuming the first hour was free.
3. 3Bill labor beyond the call as hours × your hourly rate rather than a lump sum. Two hours at your posted rate reads as fair; a round "labor" figure reads as a guess.
4. 4List parts individually — valves, fittings, copper or PEX, a new pump — at the price you are charging. If you mark parts up, state it once in your terms rather than burying it.
5. 5Add your state license number, any parts warranty, and send the invoice the same day while the customer still pictures you standing in their kitchen.

When to send it

Same day for residential service calls and repairs. For a bathroom remodel or a repipe, invoice on completion, or in progress draws if the job runs past a week.

Residential plumbing invoices are usually paid within two weeks. If nothing lands by day 14, a short text with the invoice number and balance works better than another email.

Common questions

Should I charge a service call fee separately?

Yes, and show what it includes. A named service call line with "includes first hour on site" answers the question before the customer asks it.

Do I have to put my license number on the invoice?

Several states require licensed contractors to show the license number on contracts and invoices, and customers look for it regardless. Put it in the footer of every invoice.

How do I bill an emergency or after-hours call?

As its own line, at your after-hours rate, labeled as such. Never fold the premium silently into the hourly rate.