Birmingham is a low-moderate cost-of-living market — pricing guide and permit rules below.
Birmingham plumbing rates: $90-$170/hr. Always get 3 written quotes and verify AL licensing at Alabama LBGC (genconbd.alabama.gov). Sales tax on materials: 9-10%.
Birmingham requires permits when work exceeds $10,000 or involves full system replacement. Your licensed contractor pulls the permit — if they ask you to pull it, that's a red flag.