Skip Home Depot, if you need any DIY plumbing help, go here first. These guys are great

Jim Kronk, the owner, is honorable and the most knowledgable person in the industry. His staff is unsurpassed and the quality of their equipment is better than the box store. I've dealt with Universal Plumbing for more than 30 years and three homes. I cannot recommend them enough! read more

There was one Service Person (bearded) serving at the counter who's attitude made One feel very unwelcome when coming in for service. Once they moved him to the Warehouse- the service improved significantly. read more

Steve went above and beyond for me in helping me. I first used Universal Plumbing 20 years ago when I lived in Royal Oak and they still provide the same excellent customer service. Highly recommend them and definitely Steve. read more

To be fair, some times I have gotten good service here. And obviously, they have a great supply of products. That said, I cannot believe how rude they were to me at my last (and it will stand as my last) visit. i am legally blind and had questions. i was treated as though I was an idiot and a nuisance. read more

I came here for a faucet a while back. I found the staff to be super knowledgeable and friendly. They will let you browse around and see what interests you and help you if needed. They have a pretty decent show room for its size and it feels much more relaxed than one of the bigger box stores. I prefer patronizing stores like this. They are local, one-offs and smaller and seem much more approachable. Plus I feel places like this tend to staff some of the more skilled and extremely knowledgeable people. I didn't need to have the faucet installed, since I had a contractor. But next time I need something installed, I would definitely have no issue hiring them to do the work. I feel that they would do an ace job at it. read more

Great plumbing place with experienced people helping customers. I have been going there for 30 years.

Great customer service. Andrew was so helpful with picking out what I needed for my shower system update. I went with Delta on his recommendation. We're working with a professional plumbing company so I'm sure everything will look and work great when we are done. read more

A few times I've received great service, more often, I'm received as bothering them. If you only want to sell to professional plumbers who know what they're doing, then only sell to them. I've been in the trades all my life, I've done a fair bit of plumbing and those of us who are not as proficient can go somewhere else. It's great you know plumbing, don't belittle people who don't have your expertise. read more

My shower handle and head has been leaking so I called Universal Plumbing and told him I had a Delta shower head and handle. He looked up the part and told me it was $300 to replace the cartridge. He told me to call Delta and they might send me one for free. I called and guess what...........they sent me one for free. The people at Universal Plumbing saved me $300+ dollars. They are AMAZING!!!! Thank you!!!!!!!! read more

If Universal doesn't have it, you probably don't need it. The advice is invaluable and makes any home project a lot more doable. read more

Always have exactly what you need,the items you buy from here will save you a lot of time and money I found when you buy replacement parts at the big box stores they never fit leases on learned the hard way read more

COVID has done a number on most businesses with respect to getting orders on time. However, the customer service at Universal Plumbing supply could be greatly improved. Of the five employees who answered my calls, several were very unprofessional and rude. Perhaps some training in customer service or at a minimum plain old kindess and courtesy should be taught to these employees. Big Box stores may not be as intimate, but they sure are much nicer! read more

Have been going here for years!!! Best assistance from very knowledgable staff. Blows the big box stores out of the water with staff and selection. Don't waste your time wandering around, go here first and find the stuff and staff to help you get your job done fast and well!!! The store is full of professional plumbers, they know where to go....now, you do too!!! read more

Universal has been a great resource for my 1920s bathroom restoration. The customer service is amazing. Whether I've come in clueless, or well researched, spending $2 on an odd gasket, or +$1000 on plumbing, they've treated me like they care about getting my job done. They have been quick to understand the nature of my need to restore with period correct designs/aesthetics. I can't tell you how many times I've gone into businesses and had to explain the scope of my restoration and get responses of apathy or confusion. That has not been the case with Universal, they have some guys that totally "get it". read more

Love that the staff was very Covid compliant . Super helpful and truly the only supplier (including Home Depot, Lowe's and many other's) that had the part we needed to finish our bathroom. read more

I was shocked that Jim asked me to send him a picture of the part I needed, a cartridge. He advised me that as soon as he received it he would call me back. Not only did he not bother to call me back, when I called him back, he wouldn't answer my call. He obviously had called I.D. I mean that's just weird. Whatever Jim. I'll be sure to pass along what a terrific effort you made on my behalf! read more

Amazing selection and customer service! These sort of businesses are so rare now and yet should set the example as case studies for any small to large business owners that need a course in customer service. I had to install our under counter water filtration system and of course Home Depot doesn't have the parts I need or anyone that can help out. This is my new GO TO destination for any and all plumbing related projects! They have a gigantic selection of faucets, sinks, etc from manufacturers I have never heard of but when you see the quality and finish it definitely explains why: top notch and at a whole different level compared to the local hardware stores. If you are doing a DIY or custom remodel, I would make this your only spot to order from. The staff here are super friendly. I needed an odd 3/8" compression fitting piece to go to a 1/4" nylon tubing. It actually takes a few special adapters and pieces to make it work and the staff member helping me out explained how to put it all together. Not to mention they have what I think are very fair prices too. My favorite part? The super cool vessel and infinity sinks they had. While I was waiting to get cashed out, I definitely had my eye on some very unique pieces. read more

In desperate need for shank extensions for an imported Roman bath faucet since holes were already cut in marble -- I couldn't find them anywhere (including online) -- Jim at Universal Plumbing Supply saved the day. 'No' is not in their vocabulary, when they don't exist they make them. Amazing experience, awesome attitudes -- what's largely lost in America: 'makers', is found at this family business. They've earned a loyal customer, shop here! read more

See all

If you're anywhere near Berkley, this is the place to go for plumbing supplies. Forget the big box retailers. I don't know how many times I've walked into a home improvement superstore looking for a specific part and they amazingly don't stock it despite the endless rows of products. But I digress. Universal caters to professionals but they are more than willing to help out DIY'ers. It's full service so they will help determine what you need and grab it for you. It's best to bring in the broken part if possible. The prices are very competitive and the quality of everything I've bought there has been good. They also have a showroom for cabinets and fixtures but I've never used those services. The only negative is that sometimes I've encountered a bit of a line for the customer service desk. But this is a testament to their popularity rather than any deficiencies in service. If you're going here for the first time, the parts entrance is in the rear. It's not really set up for self-service shopping so just walk to the service desk to the right for assistance. Once you experience this place, you'll never want to shop for plumbing in a hardware store again. read more

I have been here a few times for hard to find items (meaning they don't carry it at Home Depot). The staff has been very helpful and knowledgeable on each occasion. This is the best place that I've found in S. Oakland county for plumbing needs. read more

Universal Plumbing Supply - Home Depot never has it. - Kitchen & Bath Near Me - Oak Park, Michigan

I think this place serves a great need. Everything one could need for plumbing either in stock or available for order, and at the best prices. Customer service is mostly good, sometimes a little intense or callous. This is not a business built around customer service, in fact it helps to have a little plumbing know-how just to walk through the door. Also, the last time I was there I witnessed an employee with a VERY intense demeanor verbally assault and berate another employee in view of myself and other customers. I understand the context of that environment, but that seemed a little extreme. read more

I own a small business that is known for customer service. Universal is got what it takes to be a 5 star gem ! The owner, Jim, took his time with me even though I told him I wasn't buying anything ! When I can get some new plumbing items, this will be my place !!!! read more

I really loved this place when I first went to get help with my plumbing needs. We were told by the city we had a lead main pipe, and the only solution to not drink leaded water was to get a whole house water filter. I asked several times, because it was really odd the main pipe was lead. Since I have a small child, I didn't want to risk anything. Universal was very helpful in getting me the filter. We ordered it, it arrived a few weeks later, and we thought we were good to go. After getting several estimates to install it, I was further doubtful and confused that we had a main pipe in the street that was lead. I went back to the city in person and had to draw a diagram to finally get the message across of what we were asking, and we finally confirmed they had given us incorrect information and we only had a lead pipe service into our home, which could be excavated, removed and replaced. We wouldn't need the filter after all, and unfortunately due to the city's misinformation, we were stuck with the filter. I called Universal and they said that because it was a special order, they were unable to take it back. I explained how it was still in the box, I'd never taken it out (the filter is around $1400). I explained our situation and asked if they were able to make any kind of an exception. I would take half of what we paid at this point, just to get some kind of money back. They said "No. There is nothing we can do." I called the company that manufactures the filter and spoke to their customer service. Their customer service was actually shocked that Universal would not take it back. They gladly take returns off their website and would take a return from Universal-- the company's words. I explained to them that I would obviously pay for shipping, and that I would be willing to take just about any refund they would give me at this point because we are stuck with a $1400 filter. The company said they would contact Universal and see what they could do, since they have sold them filters and know that they sell them - and could easily keep one in stock, but also knew I would pay for shipping to send the filter back to them. I fully understand their rule in not taking back special orders, but what I don't understand is our special circumstances and their lack of empathy. I am not trying to return a broken, used, opened product, or cause them to lose money. I'm willing to take a loss, I just want to recoup some of what we spent because their is a better solution for our family in the long run. People shop local to get good customer service and to create a relationship with a store and vice versa. Unfortunately I should have shopped on the internet to get the product because I could have returned it. I will never shop at Universal again, which is a shame because we plan on renovating several bathrooms this year. They have lost all our business, and also my brother's business who buys whole house water filters replacements from them as well, which cost almost as much as a new filter. Note - one of the first times I stopped in, someone was screaming obscenities in the stock area. I laughed it off because it was pretty humorous and the staff helping me said "I'm really sorry about that", but it should have been a red flag for me to run. I asked for help getting a shower head, purchased one, but what the staff didn't know is the shower head came with a hose, and he gave and charged me for an additional hose. I had to make another trip back to return the extra hose. I also had to call repeatedly to see if my filter had arrived, and they ended up charging someone else's credit card for my filter, then calling me to get my correct card number. I'm sure the person they initially charged loved seeing a several hundred dollar deposit on their account. read more

They definitely know the equipment they supply. However, their customer service is awful at best. They never say thank you for your business or hello can I help you. For my most recent experience, My order was promised in 7-10 days give or take. After 30 days I called and they still couldn't give me an answer as to if it was in. I had hoped to ask another question during that same phone call but was told that our call was over because they had a customer standing in front of him. As I've already paid a couple thousand for still missing fixtures, I'd think I'm a customer too and would at least be given the courtesy of a knowledgeable answer. read more

Seriously, If you need a plumbing part for any kind of actual fixture (color match a faucet or a drain, or a handle for some now defunct divertor that pretty much matches what you have, this is the place to go. You will find expert help that knows what you are looking even if you are not even sure if they make such a part. You might have to wait a few minutes, as they do get quite busy, but they have plenty of staff and you will get quality help very shortly. Between this place and Durst lumber just up the street Berkley is really blessed with great retail and help for all home improvement disasters. read more

Terrible customer service. My husband got an estimate for a couple of sinks. I called the next day to order the sinks from the president of the company Jim gave him my credit card info and he supposedly ordered the sinks. Fast forward three weeks when I stopped in to pick up a faucet I ordered and inquired about the sinks. They had never been ordered! I needed these sinks like two weeks ago! No apology nothing! Wanted me to reorder and pay 30$ shipping each adding an additional 60$ to the order. No thanks! I can order the sinks online for less and get them shipped directly to my house for free. In addition I tried to email the sales lady Trieste who sold me the faucet to order a water filter and got no response. So again I ordered it myself online. read more

On behalf of my very elderly mother. She wanted to return a part that was special ordered for her house. She had to deal with some guy with a long beard and an awful attitude. The guy tells her that he is never wrong (He is the same guy that helped her make the order in the first place) and that she does not know what she talking about. She got the wrong part as it did not fit the toilet. He first refuses to let her return the item. After a long argument he then informs her that she will need to pay a restock fee! My mom is 80 years old and took the recommendation of this same Universal staff to buy this part in the first place, she did NOT ask for the part - why would she a pay a restock fee!?!?! This man then berated her and made her feel like a complete idiot in front of other people. He did this to the point of her having to regain her composure in the parking lot in her car with me on the phone for 20 minutes. NO respect for the elderly, let alone a complete lack of customer service. Go elsewhere, even Home Depot, they're much nice!! read more

The employees here are knowledgeable and happy to help. This is a place to get good quality plumbing fixtures and supplies that you know you can trust. read more

This place proves that good old-fashioned service beats fancy showrooms anyday. The owners are good guys with a ton of knowledge that they wiilingly share. And, best part...pricing is great. read more

Jim took really good care of me! He took the time to identify the part I needed, retrieved it and set it aside for a grand total of $2.90. Excellent service! Worth the drive. This will be where I go when something comes up again. read more

THESE GUYS ARE GREAT!!! My toilet stopped filling, so I went on YouTube and found that it was a rubber seal that needed to be replaced. The comments suggested ACE Hardware or Home Depot. I went to the local ACE store and they didn't carry the part. I asked if they thought Home Depot would have it and they suggested Universal Plumbing (The ACE guy was great too - he looked up how late they would be open on a Saturday (until 3) and confirmed their location for me.) I got to Universal Plumbing and had to wait awhile - why did I have to wait - because they were taking the time to give good service to the people that were in front of me (for all you complainers that you have to wait!) I took the seal with me, but I also took pictures on my phone of the whole pump in case I needed to replace that. He confirmed the correct seal with the pictures. And offered to let me practice putting it back together with a display/ practice pump that they kept behind the desk. I kept saying I will TRY to put it back together and he kept saying - no you WILL put it back together. I got home and was able to put it all back together and had it working on the first try! THANKS Universal Plumbing! read more

After a wild goose chase with no results I finally ended up at Universal Plumbing the BEST place to go . Eric is so knowledgeable and helpful, it was the most awesome experience to get help after days of trying and getting no where , I will never go anywhere else !! Hands down the Best place and greatest customer service I have ever witnessed , I cannot say enough about this place read more

Ran all over looking for a part to fix a faucet until I came to Universal Plumbing. When I arrived, Eric took the time to disassemble the part and fixed it on the spot. Great service and saved me from buying a new faucet!! read more

Horrible service. Extremely slow. I am still waiting in a line of 5 people, none of whom have been served in over 20 minutes. There are 4 staffers who are walking around the store, on the phone, etc., serving suppliers or contractors who are not in store. There is one employee who is helping customers, but that's not enough to actually help the customers waiting. And when asked "is there someone who can help us?", I was rudely told to "just hangout". It was as if I was bothering him by asking for help. I will never be back. I should say the gentleman helping customers was friendly and knowledgable and helped customers to the best of his ability. read more

We were doing a bathroom renovation, went to Universal Plumbing to look at bath tubs. Glen Haege, the Master Handyman highly recommends them and I do as well. Not only did Eric D. help us with the tub, we ordered a vanity, sink, shower and sink faucets, and cabinet hardware, better products than big box stores at a reasonable price. Couldn't have been more happy with Eric's professional world class service. Keep in mind they can be busy. If you look at who's there, many are plumbing professionals getting materials for other customers. Thanks Eric! D. Cook read more

I love this place. They have to be the only plumbing supply house in the Detroit metro area where you can get handyman advice, and where they can make parts for you or help you make parts work. If you are a handy person and need help finding something more than just a replacement part, this is the place for you. I brought in parts from a 1988 vintage Kohler high-tank toilet asking for advice on how to rework a pipe to work with a later plumbing rough-in. Jim was able to help me and reworked two parts in their backstage machine shop and pulled some special washers out of the parts bin that made the toilet work. If you are handy and need help, this is the place! read more

The customer service at this store is appalling, and that's putting it nicely. I've never been treated worse by a business in my life. After ordering a specialty faucet set and waiting several weeks from it to come in, I decided to call and check in on the order. I was told that it was in and that they had called. They had not called, and if they had, they certainly hadn't left a message. Upon asking how late the store was open, I was told in a very rude manner that "our doors lock promptly at 3pm". As a person who is always polite on the phone, I was horrified by the way I was talked to. This company will never be getting my business again. read more

These guys are fantastic! Dwight is a gem. They are so knowlegable and truly lifesavers. I asked about a leak I had over the phone and Dwight was able to help me solve it. I don't think places like this exist anymore. This is why I love Berkley, hometown help. Thanks a million Universal Plumbing Supply. I would give them 10 stars if I could. read more

My dad grew up with a repair business based in our home, and I feel like he's the gold standard for customer service with a smile. Now I know where I'll be going for plumbing help that I can trust, with years of experience and wisdom. When I looked up plumbing supply spots, Universal was the closest to my home, and they were open when I needed them. A guest recently cracked off the levers in our old tile shower, and Home Depot was no help when I went in for the parts. I decided to go with a plumbing supplier instead, and I'm glad I did. I held up the broken lever, and he knew exactly what I needed before I said a word. I got a thorough explanation of how the pieces of the pipes and lever fit together, and he took the time to fish out the broken plastic from the lever I brought it. He made a photocopy of the diagram for our shower pipe setup, and told me to call him with any questions. The parts were less than $10, which was a lot better than the parts Home Depot mistakenly suggested for $50+. read more