Plumber Shortage in Texas: A Growing Crisis for Emergency Repairs

Denys Kavaler and his company FPP Plumbing are among the few in Dallas providing 24/7 emergency plumbing services

By The Dallas Telegraph

Photo from the FPP Plumbing Archive

A powerful ice storm recently hit Texas, leaving thousands of homes and businesses with burst pipes and severe water damage. Many homeowners turned to companies advertising 24/7 emergency plumbing services—only to be told: “We can schedule you in two days.”

For one North Dallas resident, that delay could have meant catastrophic damage. Water had already started soaking through the walls and floors, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. Fortunately, he managed to find help from a company that responded in just 20 minutes.

When it comes to leaks, every minute matters,” says Denys Kavaler, a Licensed Plumber and owner of FPP Plumbing in North Dallas. “Water doesn’t just ruin floors and drywall—it seeps into unseen spaces, leading to mold, electrical hazards, and long-term structural damage.”

The Plumber Shortage Is Getting Worse

The U.S. is facing a severe plumber shortage. According to Bloomberg, by 2027, the country will be short 550,000 licensed plumbers—a gap that will only grow as the workforce ages.

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) projects that by 2028, the industry will need at least 114,500 new plumbers to keep up with demand. In North Dallas, the crisis is even more pronounced due to rapid population growth and an increase in new home construction.

Why This Matters?

Plumbing emergencies aren’t just an inconvenience. Delays in repair lead to:

Severe structural damage. Water weakens foundations and walls.

Mold growth. Moisture trapped in drywall and flooring can lead to dangerous air quality issues.

Fire hazards. Water exposure to electrical systems increases the risk of shorts and fires.

People don’t think about plumbing until disaster strikes,” says Kavaler. “But when water is pouring through your ceiling or a gas line is leaking, you realize just how critical this profession is.”

The Future of Emergency Plumbing Services

Without enough licensed plumbers, emergency response times will only get longer. Homeowners and businesses in growing regions like North Dallas may face increased risks due to delays in critical repairs.

Industry leaders and trade organizations, including PHCC, are calling for more training programs, better incentives for apprenticeships, and increased awareness about the importance of skilled trades. But for now, finding an available plumber in a crisis remains a growing challenge.

For fast and reliable emergency plumbing service, contact FPP Plumbing at: https://fppplumbing.com/

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