When faced with the necessity to choose a plumber, there are many options to consider. It would be great if you could call all plumbers near you and simply ask them about their rates. However, in the real world, you will need to be prepared to search for plumbers online and make a decision quickly so you can solve your plumbing needs. Given that the choice is challenging, every homeowner should ask some questions before hiring a plumber.
Questions to ask a plumber
1. Are you licensed and insured?
Getting a plumbing license is not easy. Don't believe us? Check out the requirements by state here. For example, to get the lowest license in Georgia, you need 3 years of experience and pass a qualifying test. This means that plumbers who are licensed are going to be able to fix your issue.
Insurance is vital in the case that something goes wrong. Even with the best plumbers, things go wrong. And when they do, it can be extremely costly. Going with an insured plumber/company will provide peace of mind and ensure that you, the homeowner, are covered.
2. Do you provide a warranty?
Most plumbers will warranty their work for at least 30 days. These warranties usually apply only to labor and provide the homeowner with confidence. In the rare case that plumbers' work isn't up to par, they will come back and fix their work free of charge. Like insurance, we hope you never need this, but you'll be happy you have it when you do.
It is important to keep in mind that a few plumbing-related activities are near impossible to provide a warranty. However, great plumbers will explain why this is an edge case.
3. Can you provide references?
References are a great way to confirm quality. Although it might take a bit of time upfront, it might save you headaches in the long run.
This is a major red flag even if you don't follow up on the references if a plumber can't provide at least 3 references.
4. Can I get a breakdown of the price?
It is difficult to give a firm quote over the phone. However, most companies will be able to provide you with a ballpark or a few prices of previous jobs in your area.
The best plumbers should give you a detailed price breakdown after an in-person inspection and before starting work. It can be challenging to turn down an in-person quote. We recommend doing the research before the inspection to understand possible prices. This way, when you get an in-person quote, you will have all the tools at your disposal to make the right decision.
5. Can you provide advice on preventing future issues?
The best plumbers not only know how to fix the problem but are there to help homeowners maintain their homes. They are happy to walk through how they do the repair and provide advice on preventing plumbing issues in the future.
Have a shower drain that continually clogs? Or a toilet that is always a bit off? Ask the plumber what you can do to prevent these from happening again.
What to do if you don't have time to do this research?
If this seems like a lot of work, you're right, it is. Fortunately, The Home Dispatch is here to help you find the best plumbers in your area. Let us save you the time of this necessary but painful process for your plumbing needs. Learn more at The Home Dispatch.
