If you’re moving to a new home or opening a new business, it’s best to have maintenance contacts already in line. By having a “hiring a plumber checklist”, you can avoid unnecessary tears and leave the waterworks strictly to the pipes. Here are 10 vital questions you should ask so you’re ready in case of an emergency:
1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
Before considering the type of cost questions for plumbers, you first need to know that they are licensed, bonded, and insured. A licensed plumber is trained and aware of your local plumbing codes and regulations. Bonded means that they have secured funds in place to compensate you if, for any reason, the job isn’t finished. Insurance simply means that your property is properly protected against any damage.
- Licensed: Covers any plumber qualifications questions.
- Bonded: Covers the costs in case they can’t finish the job.
- Insured: Covers compensation for any property damage.
2. How Long Have You Been in the Plumbing Business?
There are several reasons to consider the time the plumber or their company has been practicing their profession. Just like your pipes, plumbing issues are full of twists and turns, and you want to know the person fixing them has seen them all. A more experienced professional will likely have better standing and fairer pricing and will be familiar with your area’s water systems. Be sure to consider a couple more things:
- Do they have familiarity with the local systems?
- Are they charging fair rates compared to their competitors?
- Do they have a list of other clients?
3. Do You Specialize in Residential or Commercial Plumbing?
While some companies may offer prices that seem too good to be true, check their specialties carefully. A commercial plumbing company might be equipped with the latest tools — meaning they charge less because they’re so quick. However, if you are faced with older systems, they might not be able to accommodate you. Vice versa, a local plumber might stick to an honest day for honest pay but not realize they’re dealing with an operation too big for their setup.
- Residentials: Stick to a plumber who knows all types of homes and preferably has extensive experience.
- Commercial: Check who you are hiring has specialized knowledge in large mechanisms and complex designs.
4. Can You Provide References or Reviews?
You should feel confident that whoever you’re hiring has positive reviews and recognition. A long list of satisfied customers is a sure-fire method to check a plumber’s reliability and reputation — even for a layman. So make sure you ask your plumber for references and reviews.
- Check Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau if you’re unsure.
- If you’re checking out a plumber’s website, make sure they have real testimonials.
- Remember to check feedback numbers. Ideally, you want a five-star rating based on as many reviews as possible.
5. What Are Your Service Rates, and Do You Offer Written Estimates?
If undergoing a project, whether planned or in an emergency, you must be sure how they plan to charge before you commit. Make sure the contractor is upfront about their service rates and can offer a written estimate, so you have something to refer back to if costs change.
- Flat Rates: A flat rate will cover the entire job and is best for larger projects.
- Hourly Rates: An hourly rate is chargeable by the hour, which may be more cost effective for smaller jobs.
Note: Written estimates should contain an itemized list of costs and labor.
6. What Are Your Measures to Prevent Further Issues?
If you have issues at your residence or business, getting it fixed will be a major relief. However, don’t let that distract you from asking this vital follow-up question. A reputable plumber will let you know what they have done or intend to do to avoid this issue coming up again.
- Make sure the preventative measures taken to stop the problem from reoccurring are included in your written estimate.
- A description of the work should be recorded so that you know what’s been fixed or replaced.
- If needed, schedule a follow-up appointment to reinforce the work carried out.
7. Do You Offer Warranties for Your Work?
This leads to preventative maintenance. While you expect the work to be watertight, you will get peace of mind from knowing a good warranty is in place. This will ensure that you’re not charged for any follow-up work if a part fails or the problem persists.
- You should expect water heaters to have a long warranty.
- The warranty should cover both the parts and repairs.
8. Do You Have Experience with This Type of Plumbing Issue?
Once you have the perfect plumber for either your home or place of business, make sure they have the know-how for your specific problem. As a wide-ranging trade, you want to feel confident that they provide an accurate timeframe for the job.
- Large utility installations can require specialized knowledge.
- Sewer line-connected infrastructure also requires extensive expertise.
9. Will You Clean Up after the Job Is Done?
Plumbing can involve water damage, leftover debris, and removing parts of the wall and floor. Pick a reliable company that includes these types of clean-up services in the price. So, be sure to ask:
- Will you take old appliances away once the job is done?
- Will the area be cleaned and in good condition at the end of the project?
10. Do You Offer Emergency Services?
Your plumber should be like a knight in shining armor when faucets are leaking, or water is bursting through the pipes. Once you’ve made your decision, maintaining a friendly and professional relationship will ease your mind in case of an emergency. When going through this checklist don’t forget to ask how they deal with unexpected work.
- Ask what their typical response time is in an emergency.
- See if they have 24/7 service or if there is an out-of-hours phone line.
If you go through this list, you’ll find a plumber or plumbing company you can truly rely on. At A-Abel, we are your wrench-wielding heroes and friends for many services, including plumbing. Whether it’s a big project or you just want to see what we’re all about, we’re confident we’ll be the ones you turn to.
- Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Plumber - October 10, 2024
