When you plan a plumbing repair or installation, it is wise to call in professional help. A licensed plumber can ensure that the work is done properly, preventing future issues and the possibility of costly repairs. However, with so many options available, how can you tell whether a plumber is reliable?
1. Is their work guaranteed?
A good indicator of dependability is whether the plumber offers a guarantee for their work. If not, you should be wary, as this may indicate that the work is unreliable. It is standard practice in the plumbing industry to verify parts and work done, so if the plumber is unwilling to do this, it could be a sign of bad practice.
2. Is the plumber insured?
This is particularly important, as an uninsured plumber can put you at risk of legal action. If they are injured while carrying out work for you on your property, you could be sued if they don’t have adequate insurance.
3. How does their quote compare to others?
It is always worth asking for upfront, written quotes from several sources. Even if the price a plumber offers sounds good, you may still find a better deal elsewhere. Also, if the written price offered is significantly lower than other quotes for the same job, it could be a sign the plumber will not complete the job to an acceptable standard.
4. Do other people recommend this plumber?
Word-of-mouth is often a good way to get a general idea of a company. Ask friends and family about plumbers they’ve used, and consider hiring a plumber who comes highly-recommended by someone you trust. Check out reviews online as well; sites like Google Local Plus and Yelp can provide helpful information about other clients’ experiences.
5. What is the plumber’s background?
Finding out whether the plumber you’ve chosen has any professional affiliations can also be beneficial, as can looking into a history of awards. Similarly, you might come across evidence of past bad practice. One great resource for this information is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). All of these details can help to inform your final decision.
6. Is the plumber easy to get a hold of?
If they are not easy to get hold of when you need to, it may be sensible to rule them out. If you have a problem with the work at any stage of the job, you want to know that you can quickly contact the plumber involved and work towards a resolution.
7. What are their credentials like?
Finally, make sure that your plumber is licensed. If they have no credentials to show, you have no real guarantee that they are capable and trustworthy, or indeed have any experience at all. These simple steps should be all you need to form a more accurate picture of the plumber you’re considering. Choose wisely, as a great plumber can become someone you rely on to do good work for years to come.