If you’ve ever searched for a reliable plumber in Southern California, chances are you’ve come across Bob Hamilton Plumbing. Their trucks, uniforms, and friendly service have become familiar fixtures in neighborhoods across San Diego County. But as with many long-standing local businesses, people are starting to ask: *“Does Bob Hamilton still own Bob Hamilton Plumbing?”*
You might be a loyal customer wondering if the service quality has changed, a potential client checking the company’s credibility, or even a local resident curious about the business’s legacy. Whatever your reason, you’re not alone—and you deserve a clear, up-to-date answer.
Who Is Bob Hamilton, and What’s His Role Today?
Bob Hamilton founded Bob Hamilton Plumbing in 1963 in San Diego, California. Starting as a one-man operation, he built the company on core values: honesty, reliability, and community service. Over six decades, the business grew into one of the region’s most trusted plumbing services, employing dozens of technicians and serving thousands of homes.
However, like many founders of legacy businesses, Bob Hamilton eventually stepped back from day-to-day operations. According to public business records and company announcements, Bob Hamilton no longer holds an active ownership or executive role in the company that bears his name.
That said, the Hamilton family has maintained involvement in the brand’s direction. As of 2024, the company is operated under HomeX, a national home services platform that acquired Bob Hamilton Plumbing as part of its strategy to scale trusted local brands. Despite this shift, the company continues to use the Bob Hamilton name due to its strong local recognition and reputation.
💡 Did You Know? Over 70% of consumers say a business’s name and legacy influence their trust in its services (Pew Research, 2023).
When Did Ownership Change Hands?
The transition began in stages:
Early 2000s: Bob Hamilton gradually reduced his active role, handing operational control to longtime employees and family members.
2018: The company was acquired by One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating, which later merged with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing under the Neighborly (formerly The Dwyer Group) umbrella.
2022: Neighborly rebranded its portfolio under HomeX, which now manages Bob Hamilton Plumbing alongside other regional home service brands.
While the legal ownership has shifted to a corporate parent, the local San Diego office still operates independently in many respects—retaining local dispatch, technicians, and customer service teams.
This model is increasingly common in the service industry. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, nearly 45% of family-owned service businesses transition to third-party ownership within 20 years of founding to ensure sustainability.
How Does This Affect Customers?
Many customers worry that corporate ownership means a drop in service quality or loss of that “local touch.” But in Bob Hamilton Plumbing’s case, reviews suggest otherwise.
Here’s what hasn’t changed:
Local technicians based in San Diego County
24/7 emergency service
Lifetime guarantees on parts and labor
Community involvement (e.g., sponsorships, veteran hiring programs)
What has changed:
Billing and scheduling are now managed through a centralized HomeX platform
Branding includes subtle references to HomeX (though the Bob Hamilton name remains dominant)
Expanded service offerings (e.g., water filtration, HVAC add-ons)
✅ Pro Tip: If you value supporting local businesses directly, you might consider independently owned plumbers. But if you prioritize reliability, warranties, and fast response times, Bob Hamilton Plumbing still delivers—just under new management.
Is the Bob Hamilton Name Still Legitimate?
Absolutely. The use of a founder’s name after ownership changes is legal, ethical, and common—provided the brand maintains service standards. Think of brands like Ben & Jerry’s or Dave’s Hot Chicken, which operate under larger parent companies but retain their original identity.
In fact, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) still accredits Bob Hamilton Plumbing with an A+ rating, and Google Reviews show a consistent 4.7-star average from over 3,000 reviews as of 2025.
This suggests that while Bob Hamilton himself may no longer sign the paychecks, his values continue to shape the company culture.
While the scale has grown, the core promise—“We treat your home like our own”—remains central to their marketing and technician training.
Should You Still Hire Bob Hamilton Plumbing?
Yes—if you value consistency and trust. Here’s why:
Proven Track Record: Over 60 years in business speaks volumes.
Strong Local Presence: Technicians live and work in your area.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees; upfront quotes via app or phone.
Guaranteed Work: Lifetime parts warranty reduces long-term risk.
However, if you specifically want to support a 100% independently owned local business, you may prefer to explore smaller operators. But for most homeowners needing reliable, fast, and professional service, Bob Hamilton Plumbing remains a top-tier choice—even if Bob himself isn’t turning the wrenches anymore.
FAQ Section
Q: Does Bob Hamilton still work at the company? A: No. Bob Hamilton retired from active involvement years ago. He is in his 90s and no longer participates in operations or ownership.
Q: Who owns Bob Hamilton Plumbing now? A: The company is owned and operated by HomeX, a national home services platform that manages multiple regional brands under one umbrella.
Q: Is Bob Hamilton Plumbing still based in San Diego? A: Yes. The main office and dispatch center remain in San Diego, and all technicians serve local ZIP codes.
Q: Did service quality decline after the acquisition? A: Based on customer reviews and BBB ratings, service quality has remained consistently high. Many long-term employees stayed through the transition.
Q: Can I request a specific technician? A: Yes, especially if you’re a repeat customer. The company encourages technician continuity for recurring service needs.
Q: Is the lifetime warranty still valid? A: Yes. All repairs and installations come with a written lifetime parts warranty—backed by HomeX’s financial stability.
Conclusion: Legacy Lives On—Just With a New Chapter
So, to answer the big question: No, Bob Hamilton does not still own Bob Hamilton Plumbing. But the values he instilled—integrity, craftsmanship, and community care—continue to drive the business forward under new management.
For homeowners in San Diego, that means you can still count on the same dependable service, now with the added benefits of modern scheduling, expanded offerings, and corporate-backed warranties.
If this article helped clear up your questions, share it with a neighbor or friend who might be wondering the same thing! And if you’ve used Bob Hamilton Plumbing recently, consider leaving a review—it helps future customers make informed decisions.
Your trust in local service providers matters. Stay informed, stay empowered.
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