What to Know When Hiring a Plumber

Plumbing problems can occur at any time, to anyone. A simple leaking faucet, burst pipe, clogged drains or even a backed-up toilet can quickly turn into an expensive crisis if you don’t fix it in time. Therefore, having an experienced and knowledgeable plumber on-call can help you salvage the situation.



However, there is a real shortage of plumbers, which means that getting the right plumber who will do the right thing the first time can be challenging. Here are some of the things you need to know when hiring a plumber.

When Do You Need a Plumber?

Every homeowner will need a plumber on two occasions: during general maintenance and when there’s a plumbing emergency. When hiring a plumber, you need to know if they are available for emergency plumbing services such as fixing burst pipes, leaking water heater, clogged toilet, sewer system backup, among others. When hiring a plumber, you should also ask about their plumbing services. Local licensed plumbers provide various services, including:
Installation and replacement of gas and water pipes

• Installation and servicing of central heating system, including radiators and boilers
• Installation and replacement of bathroom fittings
• Installation and replacement of kitchen fittings
• Drain cleaning
• Sewer line repair and replacement

What Accreditations Should You Look For in a Plumber?

When hiring a plumber, you should make sure they have a license. Licensed plumbers in your area have achieved the necessary education and training required to provide plumbing services. Besides having a license, you can also ask your plumber about their experience. Local licensed plumbers who have been in the industry for several years are likely to do a better job than a newly graduated plumber.

Is the Plumber Bonded or Insured?

Commercial liability insurance covers claims related to bodily injury and property damage when the plumber is at fault. Surety bond, on the other hand, pay for things that a commercial liability insurance doesn’t cover. For instance, a surety bond will pay for any damages that occur due to a plumber’s illegal practices. When hiring a plumber, it is vital to ensure that they are bonded and have the right commercial liability insurance cover. This way, the plumber protects his interests and that of their clients.

Costs

Unfortunately, there is no fixed cost in plumbing services. Plumbing cost will vary greatly depending on the job at hand, your location, and the urgency of the task. As you would expect, you will pay more for emergency plumbing services than routine plumbing maintenance.

Before hiring a plumber, ask them to provide you with a clear and accurate estimate of the job at hand. When getting a quote, always ensure that the plumber is onsite. Don’t be tempted to receive your quote over the phone since you’re likely to get an inaccurate quote.

Also, on the subject of cost, make sure to ask your plumber when they expect payment. Most of the reputable plumbing companies will ask for payments when they complete the work. In most cases, you may need to pay a down payment and pay the rest when the work is complete.