The length of time a plumbing company has been in business can be a good indicator of their quality. Those with more experience have likely worked out the kinks.
Plumbers should be able to give you an accurate quote over the phone once they have assessed the problem. Be sure to ask if that price includes both labor and materials.
1. Reputation
Some plumbing tasks can be dangerous and should only be done by a professional plumber. For example, fixing a sewer line requires a certain level of skill that can lead to costly repairs if not completed properly.
A great way to find a reputable plumber is through recommendations from friends and family. In addition, many people also read online reviews before hiring a service. With Reputation Management, plumbing companies can collect and respond to online reviews all from one dashboard.
2. Experience
Plumbers must complete a combination of educational hours and on-the-job training to become skilled. During this time, they learn plumbing codes, regulations, blueprint reading, physics, and more. They also learn how to install and repair appliances and fixtures.
Hiring a professional plumber is cost-effective because they are skilled in solving problems quickly and efficiently. They also know how to prevent future issues, which can save homeowners money in the long run. Most importantly, they are reliable and dependable.
3. License
A licensed plumber has completed years of on-the-job training and meets a certain set of standards. They have the expertise to know where a leak is coming from, how to safely change pipes and how to handle water and power tools.
Using a licensed plumber will also save you money in the long run. They can prevent small plumbing issues from escalating into bigger problems, like frozen pipes or backed-up sewer lines. They also offer warranties, saving you money on future repairs.
4. Insurance
Plumbing jobs like changing water shutoff valves or clogged sewer lines require special knowledge. They can be dangerous for homeowners who try to tackle them themselves.
Professional plumbers typically have trucks or vans stocked with tools, equipment, and parts to make the job go more smoothly for their customers. These vehicles need commercial auto insurance.
Some plumbing companies also carry general liability protection and surety bonds for their work. Ask if they have these policies before hiring them.
5. Customer Service
Providing great customer service is essential for plumbing companies. Happy clients are more likely to call you back if they have future plumbing needs and recommend you to friends.
For example, the best plumbers will answer their phone during business hours and promptly address their customers’ concerns. They will also make sure their trucks are stocked with pipes, specific toilet repair parts, and cameras to ensure they can resolve your issue on the same day. This will save you time and money!
6. Pricing
While tinkering with plumbing can be done by some homeowners, it’s best to hire a professional plumber. Look for someone who is able to give you an accurate quote before starting work on your plumbing.
Ask how much the plumber charges for materials, labor, and contingencies. Also, find out how long the plumber has been in business. The longer they have been around, the more experience they’ll have. This will help them provide you with better services.
7. Recommendations
Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations of plumbers they trust. It’s also a good idea to choose a plumbing company that has been in business for years. This will mean that they have a lot of experience dealing with different types of plumbing issues and will be able to provide quality work.
When a plumber comes to give you a quote, be sure to ask them if they will be completing the job themselves. If they say no, ask them who will and what their qualifications are.
8. Warranty
A plumbing warranty is an important sign that the plumber takes their work seriously. If a plumber doesn’t offer one, it may be worth finding another service that does. It’s also important to find out if the plumber provides cleanup services. This is because plumbing repair can be a messy job that leaves behind old parts, boxes for new ones, and more. Some plumbers use milestone payment systems where you pay after specific parts of the project are completed, while others charge by the hour.
