Modern plumbing has made life a great deal cleaner and more convenient. Most people can’t even imagine living without running water and indoor bathrooms. Less than a century ago, though, many homes didn’t even have water heaters.
While we’ve all come to take plumbing systems for granted, they’re known to break down at times.
When that happens, having a trustworthy plumber on hand is essential.
Tips for Choosing the Right Plumber
Most areas have several professional plumbers to choose from. That makes finding the right one difficult. When the time comes to hire a plumber, the following tips can help make the selection process simpler.
Consider Licenses and Certifications
One of the most important steps in choosing a plumber is checking for licenses and certifications. In most areas, plumbers are required to be backed by certain credentials. Those vary widely from one state to the next, but they’re relevant almost everywhere.
Be sure to check plumbers’ licenses and certifications before deciding which one to hire. That’ll give you the reassurance that the one you choose is trained and experienced enough to handle the job.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a plumber’s license number and run it through the proper databases for verification. If a plumber appears irritated that you asked for his or her license number or refuses to give it to you, that’s a sign that something is amiss.
Look into Reputation and Reviews
Reputation and reviews are also factors to think about. Read customer testimonials for different plumbing companies if you can find them. Consider checking with the Better Business Bureau and other authorities to find out if a company has had any complaints filed against it.
Remember, though, simply having complaints filed against them doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hire a specific plumber. How those issues were handled also matters. You can also ask for references from past customers in some cases.
Check for Insurance Coverage
Check for insurance coverage as well. Professional plumbers are required to carry different types of insurance. Those may include general liability coverage at the very least. That’ll ensure you’re protected if something goes wrong while the plumber is providing services for you.
You can find out if a plumber is insured by asking for proof or checking with the state licensing board.
Warranties and Guarantees
Homeowners should also find out if the plumbers they’re considering offer warranties on parts and labor and guarantees on their work. That further confirms their credibility. It also shows that they take pride in their work.
It offers an added layer of protection as well. If a plumber doesn’t offer warranties and guarantees and does shoddy work, you may end up shouldering the repercussions. That could be costly in more ways than one.
Services and Availability
Finally, be sure to find out about the services plumbers offer and their availability. Most plumbers offer the same range of general services, so they’ll be able to meet your needs. If you need specialized help, though, it may fall outside of some plumbers’ wheelhouses.
At the same time, take into account the plumber’s availability. Can he or she provide services when you need them, or will you be put on a waiting list? Not all plumbing projects need to be handled right away, but some situations require immediate attention.
If the latter is the case and the plumber you’re considering doesn’t have any openings, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Finding a Plumber Who Can Meet Your Needs
If you’re looking for a plumber, keep the previously mentioned points in mind. They’ll help you find a professional who’s fully qualified and capable of meeting your needs. These measures may take extra time and effort, but they’ll pay off in the long run.