Open the phone book for any town or city and you are likely to see quite a few listings for plumbers and plumbing service companies. Simply choosing a name from the book or the Internet is not the best option. After all, this is someone who will be at home doing work that can be difficult and expensive. By following a few simple tips, you can be sure that you will hire the best plumber in your area.
Ask your friends for recommendations. An easy way to start your research is to ask friends and family for recommendations. Most people will be quick to tell you whether or not they were satisfied with the service they received. Narrowing down the selection to plumbers your friends like will make the process a bit easier.
Look for reviews online. There are quite a few sites online where consumers can read reviews from past customers describing their experiences with various plumbing companies. Look for any criticism that seems to come up over and over again. Check the Better Business Bureau and other local consumer protection agencies for business ratings.
Take a look at the basics. Find out how long the plumber has been in business. Usually, a plumber who has been a part of the community for a few years tends to be more stable and reliable. Make sure the number you are calling is a local address and not a national company that may send questionable people. The plumber’s uniform, service truck and tools should be in good condition and enhance his professionalism.
Make sure the plumber is licensed. You can search online for your state’s licensing boards to ensure that the plumber you choose is properly licensed. This is simply proof that the plumber you are working with has been properly trained and is officially recognized as a plumbing professional. A legitimate plumber will be happy to provide you with a license number on request.
Get prices in advance. Plumbing repairs and replacements can be expensive. Make sure you have a written estimate in hand before beginning any work. Please be aware of hourly rates and service fees that may be charged. Please note that after hours and weekend rates may be higher than what is normally charged during regular business hours. Don’t be afraid to get more than one quote for large or expensive projects. Remember that cheaper does not necessarily mean better.
Find out about warranties on parts and labor. Plumbers who offer warranties are more likely to stand behind their work and strive for customer satisfaction
Ask for emergency services. If you need a plumber urgently, it’s good to know you’ll have one when you call. Not all companies offer 24-hour emergency services. Make sure you have the phone number for an emergency plumber if you ever need one.
Ask about service contracts. Many plumbers offer service contracts that can save you money on routine maintenance and repairs. An added benefit is that when there is a problem, customers with service contracts tend to get top priority.
Find out what other services they can provide. Some plumbing companies offer heating and cooling services in addition to plumbing services. The combination of maintenance and repair service calls can save the consumer a lot of time and money.
Plumbing problems in your home can be stressful and costly. Spend some time researching plumbing service companies in your area so that when a repair is needed, you already have a professional to call.
