10 Questions to Ask a Plumber Before Hiring

As a homeowner, you may be tempted to run out and hire a plumber before obtaining critical information prior to hiring a plumber. Oftentimes, homeowners respond to plumbing emergencies by hiring the first plumber they come in contact with. This could result in a catastrophe.

Do you need to hire a plumber but are not sure how to choose a plumber? If you’re asking yourself, “What kind of questions should I ask a plumber before hiring one?” Then our company, the Heritage Plumbing Group can assist you with how to find a good plumber in your area.  As expert plumbers, below we’ve provided a list of 10 questions to ask plumbers before hiring them.

1) Do You Have a Plumbing Specialty?

To ensure you get the right plumber who is most suitable for your specific plumbing needs, first find out what the plumber’s specialties are prior to asking them to perform the services.

2) Is the Quote the Total Cost for all Services?

To be provided with estimates that are as accurate as possible, plumbers need to perform an assessment of the work that needs to be performed. If not, they may find that other services are required that may be more costly than the initial quote provided. This is very difficult to do sight unseen. That’s why customers should be concerned about plumbers who provide quotes without making an effort to come out and see the damages.

3) Does the Quote Include Labor and Material?

After a plumber has come out to look at your plumbing requirements and provides an estimate, be sure to find out if the estimate also includes the cost for labor and material.

4)  Do you Charge a Flat Rate or By the Hour?

Although it may be difficult to determine how long it takes to perform a certain job,  it’s important to get a rough estimate. Some jobs may take longer than others because of unknown factors that may not be identified until after the work begins. Plumbers that do charge by the hour could easily take much longer to complete the job than what is necessary, which could cost you more than it should. If the plumber does charge by the hour, as stated above, get an estimate of how long it may take to complete the job as well.

5) What Payment Arrangements Do You Require?

It’s important to find out when the plumber expects to be paid. Some assume you know what their payment requirements are and may expect you to pay a portion of the cost up front. To get clarity, it’s better to ask about the payment arrangements before the plumber begins the job.  On larger jobs, it’s typical for an initial upfront payment and the balance after the job is completed. But we at Heritage Plumbing Group do not recommend that you pay the full price up front.

6) Do You have Proper Credentials and References?

All good plumbers should have a significant amount of experience that involves high-quality work. When a plumber has credentials it’s a good sign that they are familiar with all of the ramifications that are associated with performing plumbing services. Additionally, good plumbers should also have a good number of references who can vouch for their work.

7) Do You Have a Plumbing License?

One of the most important questions that a plumber should be asked is if they are licensed? When you hire a plumber that is licensed, it suggests they are obligated to meet the requirements that have been set by the laws governed by their local region.  They are familiar with the government standards and must pass the test that certifies they are qualified to provide plumbing services on your behalf.  Hiring a licensed plumber also suggest that they are up-to-date with various building codes and possess knowledge as it relates to best plumbing practices.

8) Will You Be Performing the Plumbing Services Personally?

There are cases where plumbing companies consist of a team of plumbers. But there are also cases when master plumbers may hire independent contractors. In cases such as these, it’s important to find out who will actually be performing the plumbing services on your behalf. If it is not the person who provided you with the quote, then it’s important to find out exactly who the person is.  If you’re not happy or comfortable with them, you should express your concerns to the initial plumber who provided you with the quote.

9) Do Your Independent Contractors Have Licenses?

Although most master plumbers who hire independent contractors have their own credentials, references and licenses, it doesn’t mean that the independent contractors have licenses. It’s important to find out if the person who will be performing the repair services also has a license. If subcontractors are involved, it’s great to request their credentials and references as well. And most importantly, a license to ensure that you are getting the same level of quality that you would get with the master plumber.

10) Do you Have Plumbing Insurance?

In addition to having a plumbing license, it’s also important to find out if the plumber you plan to hire has insurance.  Having Insurance protects the plumber when mistakes are made. It allows them to take on an assignment knowing that their risks are reduced as it relates to injuries, accidents, or general errors that could result in additional costs.

Although it’s great to be well-informed before hiring a plumber, it’s also important to show the plumber that your questions are only out of genuine concern as a consumer and that it is not your intent to create distrust.

If you are aware of additional questions for plumbers, please feel free to share them by leaving them in the comment section below.  You can also contact Heritage Plumbing Group for more information by calling 03 9498 0458.
 

Experience Commercial Plumbers Melbourne – Heritage Plumbing Group