Every plumbing business involves more than just fixing pipes and unclogging drains—it requires managing staff productivity, schedules, and expenses. The software available today can streamline operations, satisfy customers, and foster business growth.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the plumbing industry is steadily growing, presenting fierce competition. Distinguishing between thriving and merely surviving in this competitive landscape often hinges on a business’s efficiency.
To elevate your company successfully, consider the software solutions highlighted below.
- Job Scheduling & Dispatching: Avoid Double-Bookings Always
Top Pick: ServiceTitan or Housecall Pro
It’s impossible to plan for plumbing emergencies. An effective scheduling tool can help you:
- Assign jobs based on structured service areas and technician rosters
- Deliver automated customer appointment reminders
- Provide real-time updates for clients on technician arrivals
Real-Life Win: Increased digital attendance at appointments improved a friend’s plumbing company’s missed appointment rate by 40%.
- Time Tracking: Make Sure You Know Exactly Where Your Team’s Hours Go
Top Pick: Controlio Tool
If you manage field employees, you want to ensure they’re working efficiently. The Controlio software allows employees to clock in and out conveniently while providing
- Ensured accurate payroll expenses
- Job completion time insights
- Work evidence for disputes
Pro Tip: Use this with GPS tracking for enhanced route planning to minimize drive time between jobs.
- Invoicing & Payments: Accelerate Business Revenue Stream Collection
Top Pick: FreshBooks or QuickBooks
For most small business owners, chasing payments is a nightmare. Advanced invoicing systems allow you to
- Create invoices on the spot and send them digitally
- Accept credit card payments instantly
- Automatically track relevant expenses and tax deductions
Avoid This Mistake: I recall meeting a plumber who lost $5,000 in unpaid invoices simply because he relied on paper receipts instead of digital ones.
- Inventory Management: Never Run Out of Parts
Top Pick: Sortly or Jobber
Running to the supply store mid-job is highly unproductive. Smart inventory apps help you:
- Monitor usage in real-time
- Set low-stock alerts
- Automatically reorder parts from suppliers
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Build Loyal Clients
Top Pick: Pipedrive or Service Fusion
Repeat customers are the backbone of any service business. A good CRM lets you:
- Save customer history (previous leaks or installations)
- Schedule follow-up maintenance reminders
- Send automatic review requests after service completion
Golden Rule: A happy customer tells three people; an unhappy one tells ten. CRM software helps tip the scale toward a better balance.
- Safety & Compliance Training: Protect Your Team
Top Pick: iAuditor or SafetyCulture
Plumbing work is governed by OSHA regulations and involves many hazards. These apps provide:
- Digital safety checklists
- Equipment inspection logs
- New hire training
Scary Stat: Approximately 15% of construction and extraction jobs, including plumbing, report injury rates—don’t risk cutting corners.
- Marketing: Get More Customers From Your Location
Top Pick: Thryv or Broadly
Even the best plumbers need marketing. These tools provide
- Simple website creation
- Social media management
- Review management
Quick Win: Automating review requests after services boosts response rates—92% of customers consider reviews before hiring.
Final Tip: Smart Growth Begins With a Small Strategy
Strategically prioritize to address your most pressing pain points first:
- Scheduling/dispatching (poised to alleviate most daily headaches)
- Time tracking (check out the Controlio App for field staff)
- Invoicing (offers the most immediate cash flow boost)
Which plumbing business obstacles concern you the most? Have I missed any essential tools? Share below!
P.S. Top-performing plumbing businesses are a goldmine of insight—who doesn’t want that?
