General tips on hiring a Plumber.
Here are some specific questions and answers, but first, learn some general tips and suggestions for choosing the right plumber for you. Choosing the right plumber can be a heartbreaking decision. When choosing a plumbers, keep these tips in mind.
- If you live in a state where licensing is required, as most do, select only licensed plumbers.
- Only hire plumbers who can provide proof of insurance.
- Find out how long the plumber has been in the plumbing industry. The more experience the plumber or company has, the better.
- Upon analyzing your plumbing, the professional should be able to give you an accurate estimate of what the charge should be for fixing the issue.
- The price estimate should include the guarantees (your satisfaction with the work) included in the estimate.
- Ask for a list of satisfied customer references-and check them out before you hire a plumber.
Here are five critical questions you need to ask before hiring a plumber, now that you know the general tips:
Do you intend to hire a contractor to fix a plumbing issue? Before you hire a plumber, make sure you ask the right questions! Answering these questions will allow you to choose a plumber who can handle both minor and major issues. Choosing the right plumber will also save you from making a costly mistake that could result in major plumbing problems.
1. What is the estimated total cost of fixing your plumbing problem?
When homeowners receive quotes over the phone, they should be cautious, if not skeptical. Generally, plumbers want to see and analyze your piping problem before estimating the overall cost of the repairs. An experienced professional will also include the cost of any new parts required to complete the repair. Inquire if the price estimate includes both parts and labor from the plumber you’re considering.
2. Ask who will be doing the work?
If the plumber you are speaking with uses helpers or subcontractors, inquire about their credentials and experience. It’s important not to let the person who fixes the plumbing have less training or experience than the plumber you initially spoke to.
3. Is the Plumber licensed?
Verify that your plumber has passed all tests required to obtain a license if your state requires one. You can ask him/her to show evidence of his/her license. Licensed plumbers with limited experience may be a little risky, but they may also be able to offer more competitive rates than plumbers with more experience.
4. Ask, “Are you bonded and insured?”
If you answer “yes,” you should expect the plumber to show you proof of bonding and insurance. Tell the plumber if you don’t want to be held responsible if they suffer an injury on the job or in your home when fixing a plumbing issue. This is a question you have the right to ask, if not the duty to ask.
5. Is the rate hourly or fixed?
To avoid unpleasant surprises when the repair job is finished, clarify the estimate you receive. You should ask the plumber how long it should take to complete the repairs if the rate is hourly. The more experience a qualified plumber has, the better, since it will help the plumber give an accurate estimate of the time it typically takes to complete the repair, assuming the pipes are accessible.
Are you ready to hire a Plumber?
Having answered all the questions you need to ask, you should be prepared to hire the best plumber in your local area. Find out more about our plumbing services by contacting Petro Home Services.
