Tricks of the Trade: 5 Tips to Help You Choose the Right Plumber for Your Project

Plumbing problems often come with home ownership. Clogged drains, backed-up toilets, and broken water pipes are all things that can go wrong, although hopefully, not all at the same time! When plumbing issues occur, you usually don’t have a lot of time to be picky about who you hire to make the repairs. Even so, you don’t want to choose someone who isn’t experienced or doesn’t do things right.

So, what are you to do if you need to find a plumber quickly? Just follow the tips below to help you choose the right plumber for your project.

Make Sure the Plumber Is Licensed and Insured

Price is often the deciding factor in which plumber most people choose. However, you could end up in trouble if you hire someone who’s not licensed and insured. In fact, this is probably the most important factor when deciding which professional to hire for the job. Before booking anyone, politely ask if they’re licensed and make sure they are insured (including plumbers’ workers’ compensation insurance) in case an accident occurs while they are working on your project.

Read Reviews and Check References

Regardless of where you found the plumber you’re considering, go online and check reviews and references. Don’t simply rely on the plumber’s website or the ad you found them through  – any related reviews may be inflated or bought. Instead, do a quick Google search to find out about the real experiences past customers have had. If the plumber provides poor quality work or bad customer service, you can bet their previous customers have posted about it online. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for references. If the plumber is reputable, they will have no problem giving you this information.

Comparison Shop

We understand you’re in a hurry to get the problem fixed, but don’t make the mistake of hiring the first plumber you find. While they may be reputable, there might be someone better qualified or more reasonably priced. Take a moment to do a little comparison shopping, as you may find a better deal or better service for your efforts.

Ask How Long the Plumber Has Been in Business

Ideally, you want to hire a plumber who has been in business for a long time with a proven track record to show for it. Many inexperienced professionals like to charge less for their services to drum up business, but you may end up with sub-par work or a plumber who ducks out on the job before it’s finished. While you may pay a little more for a seasoned plumber, you can rest easy knowing the job will be done right and on time.

Get a Written Estimate

Many plumbers are quick to give estimates over the phone based on the type of work and how you describe the problem. This can give you an idea of how much the job will cost, but never allow a plumber to begin working without providing a written estimate that includes labor, parts, and a timeline for completion. Keep in mind that a reputable plumber usually won’t give an estimate until they have come to your home and reviewed the job. Always get everything in writing before any work begins.

Plumbing problems are often time-sensitive, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for the first plumber you come across. Use the tips above to quickly track down the best plumber for your project.