Plumbers in Buford, GA

The Leather City on Lake Lanier

Buford was incorporated in 1872 as a railroad stop and became known as The Leather City for its saddle, harness and shoe makers; Tannery Row Artist Colony keeps that name alive. Today it is a north Gwinnett suburb, with a small piece reaching into Hall County, that sits at the southern end of Lake Lanier. Interstate 85 and I-985 both have Buford exits, and the Mall of Georgia, Buford Dam Park and Lake Lanier Islands are close by. The city counted 17,144 residents in 2020 and is about 34 miles from downtown Atlanta as the crow flies, though ZIP 30518 alone holds far more people than the city limits.

City water, city sewer

The City of Buford Water Department draws from Lake Lanier and treats it at a membrane ultrafiltration plant that opened in early 2024, buying a small share of its supply from Gwinnett County. Chlorine is added before and after filtration. The city keeps a service line inventory that can be viewed at City Hall, and its annual water quality report is the place to check test results.

Wastewater goes to the city's own collection system and treatment plant. The Sewer Department runs a fats, oils and grease program because grease poured down kitchen drains hardens in the lines and causes blockages, so wipe pans and put cooking fat in the trash.

Be aware that a Buford mailing address does not guarantee city service. Some homes in ZIPs 30518 and 30519 outside the city limits, including parts of Sugar Hill, are on Gwinnett County water instead. Your bill shows which.

Permits inside and outside the limits

Inside the city, the Buford Inspection Department handles plan review and inspections under the city's own building codes (678-546-3514). For unincorporated addresses that only carry a Buford mailing name, permits such as a water heater replacement go through Gwinnett County Planning & Development.

Gas leaks go to the City of Buford

The Buford Gas Department serves more than 46,000 customers across parts of Gwinnett, Hall, Barrow, Jackson and Walton counties. If you smell gas, leave the house and call 911 or the Gas Department from a neighbor's home: (770) 932-7981 during the day, or (770) 932-7986 nights, weekends and holidays. Do not flip switches or use appliances on the way out.

Housing and what to expect

Buford's median home was built in 1996, and about a quarter date from before 1980. Newer subdivisions mostly need water heater, valve and fixture work, while the older houses near downtown are where tired drain lines and older supply piping turn up. When you call, describe the problem and whether your address is inside city limits. You will be connected with an independent plumber who works in Buford, and price and timing are between the two of you.