V. J. Killian Co.

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Claim This BusinessAbout V. J. Killian Co.
V.J. Killian Plumbing Sewer & Electric has anchored its operations at 1355 N. Western Ave in Lake Forest since 1920, making it one of the oldest continuously operating plumbing contractors in the North Shore suburbs. License # J16270 and IDPH 055-044922 credential the company's technicians, whose combined tenure spans multiple decades. The company holds a 4.7-star rating derived from 133 client reviews, reflecting decades of consistent service delivery. Serving Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and neighboring communities from Bannockbone through Winnetka, the contractor maintains 24-hour availability for both scheduled appointments and emergency dispatch.
What distinguishes V.J. Killian beyond longevity is its integration of multiple service disciplines under one roof. Beyond core plumbing and sewer services, the company maintains in-house electrical capability, offering backup generator installation with free estimates. Their sewer lining service represents a modern alternative to traditional excavation, addressing cracked or root-invaded pipes through non-invasive cured-in-place piping techniques. This multi-trade capacity eliminates the need for homeowners to coordinate separate contractors when plumbing and electrical issues overlap. All work carries a 100% service guarantee, and their membership in the 24/7 Services Inc. network provides access to expanded resources across Chicagoland.
Customer experiences illustrate why the company's reputation endures across generations. Technician Dominick has maintained a 35-plus year relationship with at least one homeowner, replacing a frost-free outdoor faucet within the same visit. Reviewer Wayne R. Rosen noted Mike spent considerable time ruling out plumbing as the source of an issue before proactively mentioning the company's electrical division. Newer accounts reference rapid response, with technicians arriving prepared to diagnose root causes rather than applying temporary fixes. Techician Tom earned commendations for installing water filtration systems with detailed explanations and thorough cleanup.
What Customers Say
Six of eight featured reviewers awarded 4 or 5 stars, with three explicitly naming individual technicians by name. Positive feedback emphasizes diagnostic thoroughness and professional demeanor, while the sole 1-star rating cited pricing concerns regarding a $500 washer replacement involving a $5 part. The average across sampled reviews skews toward satisfaction, with repeat customers noting multi-generational loyalty.
Working Hours
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| FridayToday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
Services
Sewer Repair & Inspection
Camera inspection slow drains, toilet backup, and floor drain issues using video technology to locate damage.
Sewer Lining & Rodding
Trenchless pipe restoration for cracked or root-invaded lines, plus mechanical root removal for main sewer clearing.
Water Heater Service
Replacement and repair for standard and tankless units, addressing leaks, rust, and delayed hot water delivery.
Sump Pump Maintenance
Battery backup testing and scheduled maintenance to prevent basement flooding during heavy rainfall.
Drain Cleaning
Professional snaking and hydro-jetting to clear clogs causing slow drainage and odor without pipe damage.
Faucet & Fixture Installation
Outdoor frost-free faucet swaps, filtration system setup, and new fixture installations with cleanup.