Frequently-Asked Questions
Plumbing Tips
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding unexpected repairs — especially here in Northern Colorado. While areas like Fort Collins tend to have softer water than many parts of the state, mineral buildup can still occur over time.
Regular water heater flushing, annual boiler servicing, proper drain care, and seasonal hose bib winterization before freezing temperatures help protect your plumbing system and extend its lifespan.
General Questions
Yes. We provide free estimates for most installations and larger projects.
We do our best to schedule service as quickly as possible. Availability depends on demand, but we prioritize urgent plumbing and heating issues.
We do our best to schedule service as quickly as possible. Availability depends on demand, but we prioritize urgent plumbing and heating issues.
Common emergencies include burst pipes, sewer backups, no water, no hot water, major leaks, gas smells, or a leaking water heater. If you’re unsure, give us a call — we’ll help you determine the urgency.
Yes. RJ Plumbing & Heating is fully licensed and insured to provide residential plumbing and heating services.
Yes. We install and service both traditional tank water heaters and tankless systems. We can help you determine the best option for your home.
Yes. We provide boiler service, repairs, and installations to keep your home warm and efficient.
Absolutely. We provide plumbing services for bathroom renovations, kitchen remodels, additions, and new construction.
A spike in your water bill may indicate a hidden leak, running toilet, or underground water line issue. We can help identify the cause and recommend solutions.
We’ll always give you honest guidance. If a repair is practical and cost-effective, we’ll recommend it. If replacement makes more long-term sense, we’ll explain why.
Some plumbing and heating projects require permits and inspections from the local building department. These permits help ensure the work is installed safely, meets current building codes, and protects both the homeowner and the contractor. If a permit is required for your project, we will let you know ahead of time and handle the process so everything is completed properly and in compliance with local regulations.
Permit Questions
Permits also create an official record of the work, which can be valuable if you ever need to file an insurance claim, rent or sell your home, or rely on a manufacturer warranty. Properly permitted work helps show that the installation was completed professionally and in compliance with local regulations.
Some plumbing and heating installations require permits and inspections from the local building department. Permits are typically required when equipment is installed, replaced, or when plumbing systems are modified. Minor repairs and routine maintenance usually do not require permits. For a more information visit: https://www.fortcollins.gov/Business/Permits-and-Licensing/Building-Permits
Permits are required by the City of Fort Collins Building Services Department, which adopts and enforces plumbing, mechanical, and building codes for work performed within the city. These regulations are set by the municipality to help ensure plumbing and heating systems are installed safely and meet current code requirements.
When a permit is required, the work must be inspected by the city to verify it was installed correctly and safely. As a licensed contractor, RJ Plumbing & Heating follows the requirements set by the City of Fort Collins and Larimer County and obtains permits when they are required to remain compliant with local regulations and help protect homeowners.
Examples of work that may require permits include:
- Water heater installation or replacement
- Boiler installation or replacement
- Furnace installation or replacement
- Sewer line replacement or repair
- Water service line replacement
- Gas line installation or modification
- Plumbing work associated with remodels or additions
- Backflow preventer installation for irrigation systems
Permit requirements may vary depending on the scope of work and local regulations. More detail can be found at https://www.fortcollins.gov/Business/Permits-and-Licensing/Building-Permits#section-3
Routine repairs and maintenance generally do not require permits. Examples may include:
- Faucet replacement
- Toilet repair or replacement
- Garbage disposal replacement
- Minor leak repairs
- Clearing clogged drains
- Replacing supply lines or shutoff valves
A list of Residential Exemptions can also be found at https://www.fortcollins.gov/Business/Permits-and-Licensing/Building-Permits#do
In most cases, any party involved with the project can obtain the permit, including the homeowner, contractor, or builder. The permit simply needs to list the project details and the licensed professional performing the work when applicable. RJ Plumbing & Heating can be listed on the permit as the licensed contractor completing the plumbing or heating work.
Whoever obtains the permit is also responsible for scheduling any required inspections with the local building department.
If you prefer, RJ Plumbing & Heating can handle the permitting process for you, including submitting the permit application and coordinating any required inspections to help make the process simple for the homeowner.
Permit fees are typically not included in estimates unless specifically noted. If a permit is required for your project, we will discuss the process and associated costs with you.
Some contractors may offer to complete certain projects without obtaining a permit. While this can sometimes seem like a way to save time or reduce upfront costs, it may create complications for homeowners later.
Work completed without a permit may appear to be done well from a homeowner’s perspective, but it may not meet current plumbing or mechanical codes. These codes exist to address safety, system performance, and long-term reliability. When work is not installed according to code, it can sometimes lead to unintended issues such as safety concerns, system inefficiencies, or problems discovered during inspections, insurance claims, home sales, or future renovations.
At RJ Plumbing & Heating, we believe in completing work the right way. When a permit is required, we will explain the process and ensure the project is properly permitted and inspected so your plumbing or heating system is installed safely and in compliance with local regulations—giving you peace of mind and helping avoid unnecessary hassle in the future.
Still Have Questions?
Contact RJ Plumbing & Heating today — we’re happy to help.
