How to Find the Right Plumber – 5 Questions to Ask

Basic Tips for Hiring a Plumber

It’s not always easy to find the right plumber, and finding the “right” plumber for you, might be two different things. Our plumbing is a major system in any home or business. Finding someone who can do a good job for you is an important decision. Here are some basic things to keep in mind when you are considering a plumber:

• Consider only licensed plumbers. Proper licensing guarantees better service, and protect you against fraud, property damage, and poor work. 
• Only consider plumbers who can provide proof of insurance, otherwise all the liability falls at your feet.
• Ask the plumber how long they have been in the plumbing business. The more experience the plumber or company has, the better.
• After a professional plumber assesses your plumbing needs, s/he should be able to give you accurate estimated costs of what the charges should be for solving your plumbing needs.
• Ask about any guarantees and warranties. First, your satisfaction with their work, as well as guarantees and warranties on any parts or fixtures you are purchasing.
• Ask for a list of customer references (and call them!). Always check out someone before you hire them. It’s well worth the time and effort to hear first-hand from other customers.

Now that you have some general tips to hiring a plumbing professional, here are five important questions you should ask any plumber before hiring them:

#1 – What is the estimated total cost of fixing your plumbing problem?

Be very careful, if not skeptical, about quotes you receive over the phone. Experienced plumbers typically want to assess your plumbing problem before giving you an estimate of the total cost of the project. It’s normal to receive hourly rates and basic estimates over the phone, but a professional knows better than to promise any costs without seeing what is going on. Be sure they are also including the cost of any new parts needed to complete the repair. Ask if the price estimate includes both parts and labor costs.

#2 – Ask who will be doing the work?

Good plumbers are busy. Many professional plumbers have helpers, apprentices or subcontractors that they work with. Ask the person you speak with if they will be on the job, and if there will be others there, ask about the credentials and experience they have. You want to know who is actually working on your plumbing, and if they have as much training or experience as the plumber you initially speak with.

#3 – Is the Plumber licensed?

As mentioned above, don’t get yourself into trouble by hiring someone who isn’t properly licensed. Ask the plumber you are considering to provide proof of their license. A newly licensed plumber may not have as much experience, but they also may provide a better rate than those with more years of experience.

#4 – Are they bonded and insured?

Many feel this is an awkward question, but any professional plumber should not be phased at all by it. A “yes” answer should mean the plumber is prepared to give you evidence of their bonding and insurance. You don’t want to be legally responsible for any injuries or accidents that could occur while on the job in your home. You have the right, if not the duty, to ask this question.

#5 – Is your quote an hourly rate or fixed project cost?

Be sure to clarify the estimate you receive to avoid unpleasant surprises when the plumbing job is finished. If the rate is hourly, ask how long it should it take to finish the project. The more experience the plumber has the better, because it will help them give you an accurate estimate of the time it typically takes to complete the project.

The answers to these questions will help you choose a plumber who is qualified to solve your plumbing issues. They will also prevent you from hiring the wrong plumber, a choice that could result in major plumbing issues and could cost you thousands of dollars. Choose wisely!

Are you ready to hire a Plumber?

Now that you’re prepared with all the questions you need to ask, you should be ready to hire the best plumber in your local area! Contact the plumbing professionals at Gelinas HVAC to learn more about our plumbing services. We don’t mind your questions – we have the answers!