When it comes to plumbing, you’re best to leave the repairs and installations to professionals. But how do you find a plumber near me who can be trusted with your home’s pipes and fixtures? The answer is to do your research and ask the right questions. Here are seven key questions to ask any potential plumber:
- What are your rates?
Like all tradespeople, plumbers charge for their time and expertise. But how much they charge varies from one plumber to the next. So when looking for a plumber, be sure to get quotes from several and compare pricing, services offered, and warranties. 2. Are you licensed?A reputable plumber will be licensed by your state’s regulatory body. This means they’ve been vetted by the regulator and have agreed to adhere to a set of ethical standards. In addition, a licensed plumber will carry insurance that covers them in the event of an accident on the job. If a plumber doesn’t have a license or insurance, look elsewhere. - Do you offer a warranty or guarantee on your work?
A quality plumber will stand by their work and offer a warranty or guarantee on parts and labor. This gives you peace of mind that if something goes wrong with the work they’ve done, they will come back and fix it. It’s also a good idea to check if the plumber offers a service guarantee, which will give you added peace of mind that they will resolve any issues that arise.
- Can you provide me with references from previous customers?
A great way to gauge a plumber’s reliability is by speaking with previous clients. Asking for referrals from friends and family is a great way to get started, but you can also search online for reviews and testimonials. A well-respected plumber will have plenty of positive feedback from satisfied customers.
- What are some common plumbing problems?
Plumbers are often called out to deal with a wide range of issues. Some of the most common include water leaks, clogged drains and toilets that won’t stop running. In addition, they can help with kitchen and bathroom renovations, making sure the new layout complies with local plumbing codes. - Do you offer emergency call-outs?
Many plumbers offer 24/7 emergency call-out services, meaning they can be contacted at any time of the day or night to handle urgent plumbing problems. However, it’s worth checking their terms and conditions before requesting an emergency call-out as some may charge more for this. This is particularly true if you live in an area prone to flooding or other weather-related incidents. Also, it’s a good idea to keep the plumber’s contact details handy in case of an emergency so you can act fast. A quick and easy way to do this is by downloading a free app that screens fully-vetted plumbers near you who are available and ready to work. With this app, you can choose the plumber who suits your needs and book them in for a time that suits you.