If you have a plumbing problem that needs resolving or you’re planning the installation of any plumbing system, it’s wise to seek professional help. A good plumber can put your mind at ease by ensuring that the work is done safely and to a high standard. However, not all plumbers are as professional or trustworthy as you might hope. Here are some warning signs that should make you stay away!
1. They lack credentials.
The first sign of a poor plumber is one who cannot prove that they are licensed or insured. Without these reassurances, you have no way of knowing if they’re qualified. Furthermore, if an uninsured plumber is injured on your property, you could risk being sued.
2. They’re difficult to contact.
When you’re having work done in your home, you want to be able to check in with your plumber once in a while. If they regularly fail to answer the phone, don’t respond to your emails, or are otherwise difficult to get a hold of, they are probably best avoided.
3. They won’t give guarantees.
In the plumbing industry it is common for professionals to guarantee the parts they supply and the work they do, giving you added confidence that they’re reliable. If a plumber is unable to give you any kind of guarantee, it could be a warning sign that their work won’t endure.
4. They offer unsolicited work.
Be wary of a plumber who turns up at your door out of the blue, offering to do work for you. They could be unreliable and struggling to find work. Worse still, they may be trying to deceive you. Some of the most serious scams involving property maintenance are carried out by door-to-door contractors.
5. They give unrealistic quotes.
If a plumber offers to do your work for a much lower price than others, be very careful. It may be they won’t complete the work to an adequate standard or they intend to add extra labor costs once you’ve committed to the arrangement. Also be wary of plumbers who offer quotes without first inspecting the job. You could face unexpected extra costs if the work required is more than they expected.
6. They have a bad reputation.
One of the easiest ways to find out if a plumber is one to steer clear of is simply to seek the opinions of people who’ve used them before. Ask friends and family, or look at reviews online. If others have had bad experiences with a certain plumber, it may not be worth the risk. Finding a reliable professional is important if you want to minimize future issues. An unsafe or irresponsible plumber could leave you unsatisfied with the work or, worse, in need of costly future repairs. By taking time to choose a plumber and keeping the warning signs in mind, you can make a sensible and informed decision!