It would be nice if finding a plumber were as easy as clogging your drain in the first place. But it’s not.
Your coworker swears by one plumber. Another, you pass on your commute to work every day. And then there’s that guy your cousin swears can do a good job even though he gives you an uneasy vibe.
You may not even know how to tell the difference between your options. Are they really all that different? Oh, and will you have to pay for materials?
There are many variables to consider.
That’s why we’ve compiled a handful of tips to get you started on your search. The task of choosing a plumber may seem overwhelming, but follow these suggestions to make it simpler.
1. Check Qualifications
You want a plumber who knows what they’re doing. Fortunately, there a few criteria you can look for that ensure your plumber is qualified for the job.
The first is a state license. Every plumber worth their plunger should have a license from the state they’re in for the work they perform.
Next is insurance.
No matter how well a plumber performs their work, it doesn’t matter if something unforeseen happens. In that case, you want work that is insured. Make sure you ask for proof of insurance.
Finally, look for plumbers with membership in trade organizations. The National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors is one reputable organization. Choosing a plumber with one of these memberships can give you peace of mind knowing they stay up-to-date on the newest regulations and industry practices.
2. Research Business History
You don’t just want a qualified plumber. You want one who is experienced too.
A couple of questions to ask plumbers you’re researching include, “How long have you been in business?” and “How long have you been at your present location?” Both of these questions will let you know the stability of the business you’re thinking about hiring.
3. Choosing a Plumber by Asking More Questions
A trustworthy plumber won’t mind answering any questions you have. If they do, you’ll know they’re the wrong shop for you. You want someone who is patient and understanding.
Here are a couple additional questions that may be helpful to ask.
“Do you supply parts, or should I?”
“What happens if you arrive and don’t have the right parts?”
And most importantly, “What is your warranty?” Be aware that there is often a difference between warranties on labor and warranties on materials.
4. Get a Quote
Here’s where you get to the nitty-gritty of comparison shopping.
The most important thing you need to know when getting a quote for service is to ensure you are making equal comparisons between plumbers. This means knowing what a quote covers.
Some quotes will be a flat rate, while others will cover “time and material.” Some plumbers will tack on “equipment fees,” so make sure to ask about these before you hire one.
Also, recognize that service will be more expensive for emergency calls and on weekends and holidays. Always ask about a company’s overtime fees.
5. Read Reviews
Talking directly to a plumber is helpful, but so is getting the opinion of unbiased third parties. If you’re looking for drain repair Mesa plumbers, you want to hear from people in Mesa.
Yelp, Angie’s List, and Yellow Pages are all reliable sources of reviews. And the Better Business Bureau will give you a more official overview of a business.
Hire Your Plumber
You’re armed with all the knowledge you need, and now it’s time to end the process of choosing a plumber.
If you’ve done your research, it should go as smoothly as your newly repaired pipes.
Search for plumbers and any other types of businesses in Mesa and beyond.