About Us

Brown Brothers Plumbing and Heating Company is proud to be part of the Triangle area of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill for nearly a century. Our family-owned business first started serving this community in 1933. We specialize in plumbing and HVAC services for all businesses, homes, hospitals, and universities. 

Brown Brothers qualifications and certifications are recognized in commercial, industrial, residential and institutional business sectors.  We are NFPA 99 certified and a Public Utility Contractor. Those certifications mean nothing without dedicated, transparent, and trusted customer service. 

Brown Brothers commitment to quality and service is applauded by our customers. Our employees are family oriented and entrusted to perform their duties in a sincere, friendly, and trusting manner. We don’t simply do “jobs.” We build relationships for the lifetime of plumbing and HVAC needs.

The Early Years

Brown Brothers opened in March of 1933 by W. L. Brown. He earned his N.C. State Master Plumbing and Heating License. At this time, he started working out his own backyard, where he built a shop and soon had his brother, Charles V. Brown, join him.

The Next Generation

Norman J. Whitaker purchased the company in January, 1977 and operated the company for 21 years.  Norman realized service went beyond the customer but also included being involved in community services and civic organizations. As President of the North Carolina Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Association, he also served on the PHCC licensing board and was very active in the Durham Engineers Club, Mt. Sylvan Ruritan Club, Durham Civitan Club, and Durham Wildlife Club. He was president of the Holt Athletic Association and coached basketball and baseball for 25 years. 

In December 1985, Whitaker became Chairman of the Board, and Rick A. Whitaker became President.  In July 1986, a new 10,000-square-foot building next door was opened next to the former building to provide state-of-the-art space for the growing and trusted business in the Triangle.

Passing The Torch

On October 1, 1998, after 31 years in the plumbing trade, Norman stepped down and achieved his life-long goal – keeping the business in the family. The business was sold to his three children and Morris Stanford. The community dedication of this trusted family business still reigns nearly 100 years after its founding.

On December 31, 2020, Morris Stanford retired after 34 yrs and two future generations bought his shares.  Allen Whitaker ( Rick’s son) and Alex Stanford ( Morris’s son) now will continue this family business for the next generation.

The Next 100 Years

Brown Brothers plan to be here for another 100 years, serving the community with any job size. We can handle large-scale projects down to a leaky faucet. Our expertise is incomparable, and our customer service is unprecedented. Call us today to experience the Brown Brother experience.