Plumbing contractors are specialized in certain tasks and charge prices for a variety of tasks. Typically, a plumber that does emergency services charges a lot than a regular plumber that does his work during business hours.
On the other side, plumbing contractors who work on new sites require weeks or month of notice to do emergency work. Contrast aside, you should have some familiarization with local plumbing contractors to avoid pricey plumbing jobs during an emergency.
When you are in the market to hire a professional for a job, you should ask questions that can inform you and show you the big picture. Only this way, you will be able to hire the most suitable worker for your job.
What questions to ask before hiring a plumber to do work in your home
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Hiring a new plumber is a serious task. Here are 10 questions you should ask a plumber before drawing any contract:
1. Are you certified and licensed?
This is the first and foremost question you should ask your plumber. Being licensed shed light to the fact they are professional enough to do any kind of job in the market. Working plumbers are required to pass certifications by competent governing bodies to practice at city, regional and national level.
Annual renewal of such certificates indicates that the plumber is a home with state’s modern plumbing practices. Hiring an unlicensed plumber can cost you your project, money and fines if state codes are not observed.
2. Are you insured?
It’s also one of the most important credential for a plumber. Insurance provides assistance and tranquility when mistakes and accidents happen. Even happens rarely, theft, accidents and mistakes happen and cause problems when insurance is not in the place.
A plumber with proper builder’s risk and worker’s compensation is qualified for any job without a hassle.
3. Where are your references?
Good plumbers have experience. If a plumber has not at least five contactable clients that can testify for the service he provides, he is not experienced enough. Always check references personally before drawing any contract.
Credentials for plumbers can also show efficiency and familiarity with modern practices and knowledge. They are not a direct indication to their level of expertise and knowledge, but they show age and dedication of a plumbing contractor to his trade.
4. Are your contractors licensed?
Even if a contractor has great reputation and licenses, it doesn’t mean the individuals working on your project are licensed and certified. Many hire workers to do the field work for them.
Always ask if the contractors are going to do the work themselves or outsource the work to others. Asking for subcontractors experience and references can assure quality and professionalism for your work.
5. What are service fees?
Some plumbers ask for service fee when they visit your house for estimation only. They charge fee just to show up at your site. Ask the prospective contractor beforehand about the service fee structure they charge. Although many give free estimates and project cost evaluation, it’s better to be sure.
6. What is your response time?
Response time is crucial for emergency plumbing jobs. Without timely fixes, plumbing leaks can destroy all things that can pile up costs. What could have been covered by a small plug can cost thousands because of the delay in fixing the problem.
There is a huge difference between a sluggish plumber and a vigilant emergency plumber. Ask the response time beforehand.
7. What do you charge for parts?
Many plumbers are fully stocked when it comes to spare parts they need to fix the plumbing as soon as they reach a site. It is suitable for both parties and save both time and money in the process.
But there are times when an essential part is not at hand and a trip to local plumbing supplies store becomes necessary. Ask what the contractor will charge if he has to go to fetch parts. There are reasonable prices and nothing gets out of hand in this regard. Yet, it is good to know before making commitments.
8. What do they charge for travel?
Some plumbing professionals charge mileage charges. It means they charge customers for the cost of commute to and from the job. It could be really expensive if the distance between contractor’s office and the site is long.
Hiring a local contractor can save you this cost. The distance he would have to travel will be lower and can save you money if they charge mileage. He can also save ruckus because he would be familiar with local plumbing codes and practices.
9. Do you offer emergency services?
Often, there are two types of plumbing contractors. One that provides emergency services and the other who doesn’t. They are very different in every aspect quality of the service they provide.
Those who does emergency services does not care for traditional plumbing work. Whereas, you can’t count on a traditional plumbing contractor to arrive on time for late night calls.
Finding both in your locality could be the best bet for you.
10. What do you specialize in?
To get the best plumber for your specific project, it is better to ask specialties. Some are specialized in doing repairs and services, while others are more suited for remodeling work.
Getting the plumbing contractor that is most suited for the job is a sure step to get the job done within optimal resources.
Note: Highfive List can help you to find the best plumber in your area if you any of the above questions.
