Home repair questions and cost guides for the DMV
Straight answers on home repair costs, permits and timing in DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia. Start with a cost guide below, or send the form for a price on your job.
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Pricing
How much do home repairs cost in the DMV?
Our starting prices: plumbing repairs from $250, water heater replacement from $2,000, handyman $125 an hour (2-hour minimum), roof repair from $750, roof replacement from $550 per square, interior painting from $750 per room. Detailed guides:
Do I need a permit?
Often yes for plumbing, water heaters and structural or roofing work, and the office that issues it depends on where you live, not the company you hire.
- Baltimore City: DHCD permit handbook
- City of Rockville (inside city limits): City of Rockville permits
- Rest of Montgomery County: Montgomery County DPS
- Annapolis: City of Annapolis building permits
- Fairfax County: Land Development Services
FAQ
Plumbing questions
Water heaters, drains and repair pricing: see plumbing, water heater replacement and drain cleaning.
FAQ
Handyman questions
Hourly billing, minimums and what a handyman should not take on: see handyman services, drywall repair and mounting and assembly.
FAQ
Roofing questions
Repair versus replacement and how roofs are priced per square: see roofing, roof repair and roof replacement.
FAQ
Painting questions
Per-room pricing, prep and weather windows: see painting, interior painting and exterior painting.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is a roofing square?
A square is 100 square feet of roof surface. Roof replacement is priced per square, starting at $550.
Who pulls the permit, me or the contractor?
Either can, depending on the jurisdiction. Fairfax County, for example, lets owners pull permits in their own name. Ask who will pull it before work starts.
How often are your prices updated?
We review published prices about every six months.