Ever had the experience of partnering with an unreliable plumber? While there are many dependable plumbers you can call, you’re likely to stumble upon some that are incompetent and not fit for the job.
To avoid this unfortunate circumstance, always double-check who you’re partnering with. Plumbing troubles are already a big headache, and partnering with someone who’s not even helpful makes your situation even more frustrating.
Here’s a guide to follow in order to land the right plumber for your needs.
Determine What Service You Need
Choosing the right plumber ultimately hinges on your actual needs. Hence, focus only on your required service to get the most suitable contractor in town. Your needs will help narrow down your search for a reliable plumber who specializes in the required field.
Ask for Recommendations
Searching for a local plumber aimlessly will not get you far enough. Begin your search by asking your family, friends, or neighbors for plumbers whom they had great experience with. You can also engage in online forums to get more insights or search for highly-rated plumbing companies online.
This is a good starting point and a great way to filter community-vetted plumbers. When looking for reviews, see to it that they tick the box for having reliable customer service to ensure you get expert assistance before, during, and after the service. Don’t skip the negative reviews and only read the positive comments, or vice versa, to get a balanced view.
Check Qualifications and Credentials
While you can trust word of mouth from your close circle or community, verifying the company’s credentials and background gives you a stronger safeguard against bogus contractors posing as legitimate.
Make sure to check their plumbing license, as most states require such credentials. This is vital proof that your contractor has professional training and knowledge to perform the job. Also, look for their insurance and bonding to ensure you get compensation for accidental damage to property and are protected from any breach of contract. And while you’re at it, also ask for certifications that will serve as proof that they specialize in the service you are trying to avail.
Review Experience and Specialization
Another important question to ask is how long the plumber has been in business. While a newer plumber may be capable of performing the task, experience often equates to deeper knowledge of various plumbing issues and solutions, resulting in plumbing best practices.
If you need specific work, like water heater repair or installing a sump pump, look for a plumber with experience in that area. Some plumbers specialize in certain types of plumbing, so it’s worth checking to ensure you’re getting the best person for the job.
Verify Warranty and Guarantee
Every top-rated plumbing company should offer a warranty or guarantee on their work. This ensures that if something goes wrong after the job is completed, they’ll return to fix it at no additional charge. For installations, including new faucets, water heaters, or pipes, check if the plumber offers a warranty on the products themselves.
Besides the warranty for the service, they should also provide a separate warranty for the product being installed.
Check for Emergency Services
Plumbing emergencies can happen at the least expected moment, so make sure you have access to an emergency plumber to get help in your time of need. Ask whether the plumber offers 24/7 emergency services and how they charge for emergency calls. Always verify with them their response time. A good plumber should be able to respond quickly to emergencies, minimizing the damage to your home or property.
Get Multiple Quotes
There is a sea of contractors everywhere, with everyone offering the most competitive price to get your nod. Always get at least three quotes from different contractors to get the most competitive price and most comprehensive offers.
Try calling several top-rated plumbers to describe the issue and request estimates. Make sure the quotes are detailed, outlining the cost of labor, materials, and any other fees. Their pricing must be upfront without any hidden or surprise charges.
If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, it may be a red flag for subpar work or hidden fees. Similarly, excessively high estimates don’t necessarily mean higher quality.
Finally, understand the payment structure every contractor offers. Some plumbers charge an hourly rate, while others offer flat-rate pricing. Be clear on how the plumber charges and what’s included in the estimate.
Get Solace Plumbing Heating And Air for Dependable Plumbing Services
Don’t be easily swayed by empty promises online; be vigilant and careful who you partner with. By following the outlined guide, you’ll surely find the right plumber for the job.
At Solace Plumbing Heating and Air, our experience and expertise are backed by hundreds of five-star online reviews. The feedback from the community we proudly serve proves our commitment to quality and honest work you can depend on at any time. Whether it’s an emergency plumbing repair, maintenance, or installation, you can bank on our reputation.
So, the next time you’re in the market for a reliable plumber, cut your search short by calling us first. Solace Plumbing Heating and Air, is the local plumber your friendly neighbor will surely recommend!