Between 2018 and 2028, 68,200 new plumbers are likely to pop up in the industry. That's a 14% increase! While there are many experienced plumbers available, it helps to find the one suited to your needs.
Otherwise, you might end up letting someone who lacks the proper experience and expertise work on your plumbing.
Here are 10 questions you should ask a plumber before hiring them to work on your home or business.
By asking these 10 questions, you'll have the peace of mind you're making the right choice. Then, you can hire a plumber who's equipped to handle your needs. Start your search and make choosing a plumber easy by asking these questions.
1. Are You Certified?
This is one of the most important questions you can ask a plumber during your search. Make sure the plumbing work is completed by someone who is knowledgeable. A certified tradesman will have the proper knowledge you need.
They'll also know about the local codes and regulations they'll need to meet.
A certified plumber will take the time to diagnose the problem accurately before they start on the job. They'll also perform the service in your home or business safely, using the proper tools.
A certified, licensed plumb is also professional enough to diagnose and solve any problem they come across. Working plumbers need to complete government testing to receive certification as a county, regional, or state plumbing contractor.
They also need to complete annual re-certification, keep up-to-date with building codes, and keep track of current practices.
If they lack the proper licensing, they can't pull permitted required for certain jobs. This could make your plumbing project against the law, leaving you susceptible to fines.
When choosing a plumber, it helps to make sure they're certified and capable of completing a high-quality job.
2. Do You Offer a Warranty?
Next, make sure they provide a warranty for the plumbing work they plan to perform.
Any plumbing repairs or installations needed should come with a guarantee. What happens if you notice a problem directly related to the service they provided a month ago? That guarantee will ensure they'll return to fix the problem.
Some plumbers provide a guarantee that lapses after 30 days. Make sure you understand how long the guarantee lasts.
Extenuating circumstances might also void the guarantee.
The more you understand before they start working, the better you can protect yourself in the future.
If the plumber doesn't offer a guarantee, consider looking for someone else. This guarantee will protect your best interests in case something happens after their initial service.
3. Are You Insured?
If mistakes and accidents occur on the job, insurance will keep you covered. Ask a plumber if they have proper builder's risk, bonds, and worker's compensation insurance. Plumbers with the proper insurance are qualified to take on any job risks.
They won't have to worry about defaulting if any accident or mistake does occur.
Meanwhile, you won't have to worry about paying any unexpected costs out of your own pocket.
4. Can You Provide Credentials and References?
Before you hire a plumber, make sure they have plenty of experience. For proof of that experience, ask if you can speak to three to five references.
When you speak to these references, ask about their time working with the plumber in question. Were they able to communicate the problem clearly? Were there any issues as they completed the job?
Check these references out personally before you sign a contract.
Credentials can also tell you a lot about a plumber's workmanship quality. They also indicate the plumber is committed to their trade. A plumber with the proper credentials is likely up-to-date with building practices, techniques, and professional practices.
You can check the Better Business Bureau for members during your search.
5. Are Your Contractors Independently Licensed?
While some plumber contractors are licensed and insured, that doesn't mean they're the individual working on your project. Ask the contractor who performs the work if they're independently licensed. Check the subcontractor's experience and references to make sure they meet your expectations.
6. What Are Your Service Fees?
Plumbers in the United States make about $24.92 per hour. Before you hire anyone, make sure to get a thorough plumbing estimate. Otherwise, you might find their services exceed your budget.
Service fees are accrued when a plumber visits your home or business for an estimate. They might not perform tasks and complete the job while they're there. Instead, they'll still charge a service fee to arrive.
Avoid unexpected costs by asking about service fees before they visit your home or business.
7. Do You Offer 24-Hour Emergency Services?
Some plumbers provide 24-hour services while others don't. When choosing a plumber, look for one who can provide around the clock service, just in case you need it.
Finding a local, reputable emergency plumber will benefit you in can an unexpected problem arises at the worst time (like Thanksgiving Day).
8. What Are Your Specialties?
Ask a plumber about their specialty to make sure they're the best plumber for your specific needs. A plumber who has plenty of experience might not be the best lawyer if you need remodeling work.
Researching their specialties will help you narrow down your options when choosing a plumber.
9. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Next, check the plumber's work history. Have they worked in plumbing for a long time? Maybe they switched careers at one point.
A plumber with an extensive history in your local area will have a long-standing reputation. They'll have more to lose if they do a poor job.
10. Can You Help Me Avoid Future Problems?
When the plumber visits, try to get as much of an understanding of the problem as you can. Then, ask if they can help you avoid problems in the future. Are there any preventative measures you can take?
A high-quality tradesman won't bank on you calling them back every few weeks to fix the problem. Instead, they'll want to provide you with long-lasting service.
Don't Spring a Leak: 10 Questions to Ask a Plumber Before Hiring Them
Don't stress out the next time you spring a leak or notice a plumbing problem. Instead, these 10 questions to ask a plumber will help you find someone qualified to help you in any emergency.
Reach out to plumbers you can trust. Contact us today to discuss your next plumbing project.