Did you know there are 490,200 plumbing, pipefitting, and steamfitter jobs in the United States? Homeowners need to hire plumbing professionals for small to major repairs. If you need some tips for hiring a plumber, we can help.
In this guide, we’ll go over how to find a reputable plumber. There are different things to consider before choosing a company.
Want to learn more? Keep reading.
1. Get Recommendations
You should look at working with a plumber who’s connected to a reputable plumbing company. Ask your colleagues, relatives, neighbors, or friends for a recommendation.
Call a local real estate agent if you can’t get any references. You could also ask your electrician or contractor for a recommendation.
You could also ask the plumbing contractor you’re interested in for references. Talk to these different references before you hire them.
A quality company won’t have any worries to give you a reference.
You can also find reputable companies online. Search online and use the terms “plumbers near me.”
2. Compare Quotes
Before you pick a plumber to complete work in your home, consider getting a few different quotes. You want to compare the pricing with other plumbers you’re considering hiring.
When you compare the quotes, think about what needs to get fixed. Do the charges line up with the labor and materials needed?
Don’t hire a company that gives you a quote without inspecting your home. The plumber won’t have a good idea of what work needs to get done or the materials required.
You might pay more than they listed in the quote. If you get a low quote, be wary of the company. A low price might mean the quality of the work won’t be good.
A quality plumber should go and see your home and provide an estimate of the work.
Experienced professionals will include the price of new parts they might need. Make sure you ask if the estimate covers the labor and parts cost.
Don’t hire a plumber because they give you a low price. Hire a plumber because they provide a competitive and fair quote.
3. Ask to See a Valid License
When chatting with different plumbers, you should ask to see a valid license. The license will reveal the plumber has the qualifications and ability to do the work.
Hire licensed plumbers only. Don’t risk working with an unlicensed plumbing company. You might spend more in the long run if you need to get the job fixed.
4. Ask About the Insurance
Find out if the plumber has the appropriate insurance. The insurance should cover any damages that could occur from the plumbing work.
Workman’s compensation will also protect a plumber and cover them in the event of any injuries.
If the plumber doesn’t have insurance, you could get held liable for any injuries that occur at your house.
5. How Experienced Is the Plumber?
When deciding between different plumbers, you should also ask about their experience. If you find a plumber who has a lot of experience, you’ll have better results.
A new plumber might not have the experience to deal with new problems or complex repairs.
The plumber should have been in business for years. Ask the representative when they started the plumbing company.
6. Get a Contract
After picking a plumber, you’ll want to make sure you get a contract from them. Sign and date the agreement.
Keep a copy of the contract. In the event you need it later, you’ll want the copy. Don’t accept a verbal contract.
7. What About Warranty?
Quality plumbers will include a warranty. They will offer a kind of guarantee on the different work they perform.
Before you choose a plumber, make sure you ask about the warranty they provide. The plumbers should stand behind their work and provide a warranty.
8. Who Will Complete the Work?
When you speak to the plumber you’d like to hire, make sure you ask about who will do the job. Will the plumber bring subcontractors or assistants to your home?
What are these extra employees’ experience and credentials? You don’t want someone in your home who doesn’t have the proper skills.
9. Ask When You Need to Provide Payment
For an extensive plumbing job, you should ask about the payment terms. Some plumbers will want a certain percent of the job payment. After the plumber arrives, they might want more of the payment.
Find out the payment schedule. You’ll know what to expect and can make a plan.
10. Pick Between a Large Company and Independent Contractors
You’ll begin to realize there are companies with a massive staff and also independent contractors.
A bigger plumbing business might mean you’ll have more people available to work on your repair. Yet, the person who comes to your house might not hold the company’s certifications.
An independent plumbing contractor who has a current license might be the best choice. Yet, you’ll need to book them right away, because they tend to be quite busy.
Consider your repair job. Can you wait for a bit to get the work done, or do you need someone right away?
Now You Know More About Hiring a Plumber
We hope this guide on finding a plumber was helpful. When looking at hiring a plumber, make sure you get a recommendation from friends or family.
Ask if the plumber provides a warranty for their work. You also want to ask about the plumber’s experience and get an estimate.
Was this guide helpful? Check out our real estate and home articles on the blog.
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