Believe Plumbing puts focus on customers
CAROLINE LOBSINGER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 hours, 10 minutes AGO
I grew up in the Tri-Cities, Wash., and have always loved to write. I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in journalism and political science, with an area of emphasis in history. I am the fifth out of six kids — don't believe any of the stories that my siblings tell. To be able to tell others stories and take photos for a living is a dream come true — and I considered myself blessed to be a community journalist. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and spending time outdoors, genealogy, reading, and watching the UW Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. I am a servant to my cat, Frankie, who yes, will eat anything and everything in sight … even wedding cookies. | April 3, 2026 1:00 AM
SANDPOINT — Believe Plumbing was built around one simple idea: Homeowners deserve great service and straightforward communication.
“Our company was built around a simple idea: homeowners deserve dependable service and clear communication. We focus on providing the best service for our customers – answering our phones, offering same-day service whenever possible, and providing clear, upfront pricing so customers always know what to expect before any work begins,” said owners Dillon and Vera Emery.
While based in Sandpoint, the family-owned plumbing company serves homeowners throughout Bonner, Boundary and Kootenai counties. Believe Plumbing specializes in a wide range of residential plumbing services, from drain cleaning and sewer line inspections to residential plumbing installation and repairs. The company also handles small commercial and remodeling projects.
Customers are told the cost upfront and given three options, allowing them to make informed decisions based on their needs and budgets, the Emerys said.
Instead of charging an hourly rate, the company charges a flat fee based on the service needed, allowing customers to know the cost beforehand without worrying that an unexpected problem will result in a larger-than-expected bill.
“You know what you're gonna get before we even start to do work,” said Dillon Emery, making the comparison to going to the grocery store and knowing exactly how much something is going to cost. “It's different than some other trades but we prefer it that way and I think a lot of people prefer it that way, too.”
Launched in November 2024, Believe Plumbing emphasizes same-day service, upfront pricing and high-quality customer service. Phones are answered 24/7 by a real person, and the company offers same-day service whenever possible during the workweek. Complete background checks are conducted, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners, and care is taken to ensure homes are left in top condition, with crews wearing shoe coverings and cleaning thoroughly after each job.
The company’s goals are simple: provide the best service in the area with customers at the forefront of all that it does.
“With our customers’ peace of mind as our top priority, we set out to create a service company where service truly comes first — phones are always answered, same-day service is available whenever possible, and pricing is clear and upfront,” the couple said. “We treat your home like our own and always strive to leave it better than we found it.”
The company also strives to treat its employees the same way it treats its customers — as invaluable members of the team. That philosophy has served the Emerys and their employees well, with one crew member recently able to buy his first home.
Formerly known as Big Red Plumbing, the couple said they changed the company’s name after discovering a Spokane Valley business had a similar name. With plans to expand in the future, they wanted to avoid potential confusion for customers.
The rebrand reflects Believe Plumbing’s focus on putting customers first and delivering long-lasting plumbing solutions with care and professionalism.
In addition to the rebrand, Believe Plumbing recently expanded into Kootenai County with a second office in Hayden. Plans are also in the works to move into a larger space in the Sandpoint area.
“While the name has changed, our team and commitment to providing our customers with the best service and long-lasting solutions has not,” the Emerys said.
While the name has changed, the company’s beloved mascot has not — it remains a Bigfoot. In fact, the mascot led to the company’s new name. Vera Emery said she was driving one day when she noticed a Bigfoot sticker with the word “believe” printed underneath it.
Already an established plumber, the decision to open his own plumbing company allows the couple to structure Believe Plumbing in a way that puts customers first. Pricing? They know that upfront. Options? They get multiple possible solutions on how to solve the problem. Same-day service? Whenever possible, that’s a solid yes as well.
Dillon Emery said he loves the challenge of his job, albeit one that involves “nasty stuff” from time to time.
“I just love solving problems and then, at the same time, you get to help someone while you're doing it. It's nice to show up at a job and, at the end of the day, you're the hero,” he said.
It was after helping family members set up their property a few years ago that the couple saw firsthand how difficult it can be for homeowners. Phone calls to contractors can go unanswered, projects don’t start on schedule, and pricing can be unclear.
“That experience made us realize that homeowners deserve better,” the Emerys said. “We wanted to build a service company where service truly comes first — based on reliability, clear communication, and respect for people’s homes and time.”
The result was what is now Believe Plumbing.
That desire to help family — something that for the Emerys extends to all who call North Idaho home — remains at the heart of the business.
“At Believe Plumbing, our most important message is simple: all North Idaho homeowners deserve plumbing service they can truly rely on,” the Emerys said. “We’re a locally owned, family-run team that treats every home like our own, communicates clearly, and delivers long-lasting solutions with care.”
For more information, contact Believe Plumbing online at callbelieveplumbing.com; by email at, [email protected]; or by phone at 208-690-4948.
ARTICLES BY CAROLINE LOBSINGER
LPO Rep brings love, laughter to Shakespeare classic
New York backdrop reshapes 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'
Shakespeare meets modern city life as Lake Pend Oreille Repertory Theater brings a New York‑set “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” to the stage, blending romance, fantasy and street‑inspired characters in a contemporary take on the classic comedy.
Believe Plumbing puts focus on customers
Company completes rebrands, expands service across North Idaho
Formerly Big Red Plumbing, Believe Plumbing has rebranded and continues expanding across North Idaho, adding service in Kootenai County and maintaining its focus on upfront pricing, clear communication and same-day service when possible.
Education dominates at legislative town halls
Education led the discussion at Sandpoint’s legislative town hall as leaders reviewed reading gains, expanding CTE programs, school budget concerns, virtual learning oversight, and AI guidance.