For more than seven decades, Smith Plumbing & Heating/Kitchen & Bath has been a trusted presence in Port Jervis, NY—providing essential plumbing and heating services while transforming kitchens and bathrooms for generations of local families.
Founded in 1955, the family-owned business is now led by second-generation plumber Tom Smith and his wife, Debbie Valentine. As the company approaches its 71st year, Valentine says longevity is both a responsibility and a point of pride.
“This year will mark our 71st year in business,” she said. “Our longevity shows that we provide an important service to our community. Our experience and expertise are valued.”
That history continues to shape how the company operates today. Valentine emphasized ongoing education and staying current with industry developments. “We strive every day to educate ourselves about the products we offer,” she said. “We want to provide products utilizing the most current technology and design available, along with excellent customer service.”
Carrying a family legacy forward
Like many long-standing local businesses, adapting to changing consumer habits has been one of the biggest challenges.
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“Attracting new customers requires us to learn how to communicate with our younger customers through the internet and social media,” Valentine explained. “Keeping our website current and informative is also important.”
Despite the changing landscape, long-term relationships remain the foundation of the business. Many customers today are the children and grandchildren of Smith’s earliest clients.
“These families keep coming back because they trust us to be fair and honest,” Valentine said. “They know we will be there for them tomorrow to provide the best information and service we can.”
One team, complete solutions
Smith Plumbing & Heating began strictly as a plumbing and heating company. Expanding into kitchen and bath remodeling came naturally.
“We started as a plumbing and heating company. It was a natural progression to add kitchen and bathroom remodeling,” Valentine said. “We have plumbers and carpenters on staff to handle the entire remodeling project.”
This all-in-house model allows Smith to manage both quality and scheduling. “Once you hire us, you will not have to hire any other contractors to complete the project,” she said.
That same expertise also plays a critical role during peak service seasons. “The most common phone calls at this time of year are for no heat and frozen pipes,” Valentine noted. “We respond as quickly as possible, and we also provide after-hours service to our current customers.”
Practical design, built to last
In kitchen and bath remodeling, homeowners are increasingly focused on durability and ease of maintenance.
“Our customers request materials and products that are durable and low maintenance,” Valentine said. “We offer alternatives to ceramic tile for tub and shower walls, and many prefer vinyl plank flooring.”
Design guidance is a key part of the process. Smith provides computer-generated, full-color drawings so clients can clearly visualize their finished space before work begins. The company’s showroom offers product samples to help coordinate materials, with staff assisting customers at every step.
Quality and repairability remain core values. “We select good quality products that, through our experience, have proven to be reliable,” Valentine said. “They offer quick access to repair parts and are easily repairable.”
Preventive care and community commitment
Valentine also stressed the importance of routine maintenance. “It is very important to have your heating system cleaned and serviced before the heating season,” she said. “Many of the no-heat calls we receive are preventable with good maintenance.”
Beyond service calls and remodels, Smith remains deeply connected to the Port Jervis community. The company supports the Port Jervis Warming Station, works with local churches, and is active in the Port Jervis Rotary Club, which focuses on community service.
Looking ahead, Valentine says the goal is simple: continue serving the community with the same standards that have guided the business for generations.
“We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing,” she said, “and keep providing reliable service while supporting the community that has supported us for so many years.”