Jun
4
Do-it-yourself home repairs are becoming increasingly popular in the wake of home remodeling television shows and user-friendly home repair guides. Plumbing, however, remains one area of home ownerships that is best left to the professionals. Whether you’re remodeling your bathroom or demolishing your kitchen, there are several questions you should ask a local plumber before your sign on the dotted line and hand over a check.
Are you licensed and insured?
States create their own guidelines for licensing local plumbers but all states require licensed plumbers to take a test that covers federal guidelines, plumbing codes, installation procedures, maintenance, and repair. Ask your local plumber if he is licensed and when he received the license. Even a licensed plumber can hit some trouble, so insurance protects both you and the plumber.
Is your team licensed?
During a preliminary meeting, you might meet with the company’s owner to secure the service, but that doesn’t mean that he is the man in charge of the job. Ask your local plumber is all of the technicians who might be working in your home have licenses. Alternatively, ask for the specific name of the technician you’ll be working with and contact her directly.
What is your specialty?
All local plumbers should be versed in basic plumbing, but there is a big difference between a leaking faucet and a chef’s kitchen remodel. Ask your plumber what their most common kind of service is before you specify what your particular needs are.
Do you have a website?
Your local plumber doesn’t need to be a master of web design, but an updated and user-friendly website suggests a degree of professionalism that should translate to the work done at the job site.
Is your fleet well maintained and stocked?
If the plumber’s vehicles are in terrible shape, it’s a bad sign for the potential workmanships. Trucks should be well maintained with the local plumbing service name clearly displayed; reputable companies will also identify themselves as licensed right on their trucks. Also ask what kind of stock is kept on hand; if the plumber doesn’t have a part you need, will you need to pay for it?
Can I contact some references?
A reputable local plumber should have references on hand. If he resists, it’s a sign that he may have a reputation of providing subpar service or that he is not very organized. Get the reference sheet and call two or three homes. Remember to ask what kind of work was done and how long it took.
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