There are a lot of things that can go wrong with your plumbing. A simple clogged sink can quickly turn into a major headache, and if left unchecked, can lead to much more serious problems. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced plumber on hand who can take care of any issue that may arise.
But how do you know if a plumber is experienced and trustworthy? Here are a few tips.
Check Online Reviews
One of the best ways to find a good plumber is to check online reviews. Sites like Angie’s List and HomeAdvisor provide homeowners with lists of local plumbers, as well as user reviews. This is a great way to get an idea of what others have experienced with a particular plumber.
You can also check the Better Business Bureau website to see if there have been any complaints filed against the plumber you’re considering.
Ask for Referrals
Another great way to find an experienced plumber is to ask your friends, family members, and neighbors for referrals. Chances are, someone you know has had to hire a plumber at some point and can give you a good recommendation. Even if they don’t have a referral for you, they may know someone who does.
Do Some Research
Once you’ve compiled a list of potential plumbers, it’s time to do some research. Visit the website for each one and see if they have any credentials or affiliations listed. These days, most reputable businesses are members of professional organizations such as the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors or the American Society of Plumbing Engineers.
Also, be sure to read through their online reviews (if available) before making your final decision.
Do You Need a Plumber? Or Can You DIY?
Now that you know how to find an experienced plumber, you may be wondering if you really need one. In some cases, a simple Google search can help you troubleshoot a minor plumbing issue. However, if the problem is more serious, it’s always best to call in a professional.
Some of the most common reasons to call a plumber to include:
- Leaking pipes
- Clogged drains
- Water heater issues
- Frozen pipes
- Sump pump problems
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, or if you’re not sure what the problem is, it’s best to call in a professional. Trying to fix a serious plumbing issue yourself can often make the problem worse, so it’s always best to leave it to the experts.
Questions to Ask an Experienced Plumber Near You
Once you’ve found yourself a plumber or two that you’re interested in, it’s time to start asking some questions. Here are a few things you should always ask:
How Long Have You Been in Business?
The length of time a plumber has been in business is important to consider because it speaks to their level of experience. Obviously, the longer they’ve been in business, the more experience they’ll have. But that’s not always the case. Some newer businesses are run by plumbers who have years of experience and know exactly what they’re doing.
What Is Your Experience With This Particular Issue?
Even if a plumber has been in business for a long time, that doesn’t mean they’re experienced with every possible plumbing issue. So, if you have a specific problem, be sure to ask the plumber how much experience they have to deal with that particular issue.
Do You Have Liability Insurance?
It’s always a good idea to ask if a plumber has liability insurance. This will protect you in case something goes wrong and the plumber damages your property. This is a good time to also ask about licenses and certifications.
What Are Your Rates?
Of course, you’ll want to know how much the plumber charges before hiring them. But beware of any plumber who quotes you a rate without first seeing the problem. Plumbing issues can be tricky, and it’s impossible to give an accurate estimate without first seeing the problem.
Once they give you a figure, get it in writing before they start any work. This will help avoid any misunderstandings later on.
What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?
Make sure to ask the plumber what kind of warranty they offer on their work. This will protect you in case something goes wrong after they’ve completed the job.
What Are Your Payment Terms?
It’s also important to ask about payment terms before hiring a plumber. Find out if they require payment upfront or if they’re willing to work with you on a payment plan.
When Can You Start?
If you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, you’ll obviously want to know how soon the plumber can start. But even if it’s not an emergency, it’s still a good idea to ask. This will give you an idea of how quickly they can get the job done.
What to Do in an Emergency Plumbing Situation
If you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, the first thing you should do is turn off the water. This will help prevent any further damage. You may also need to turn off the power if the water is coming from an electrical source.
Once you’ve done that, call a plumber right away. You can find a list of emergency plumbers in your area by searching online.
When you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, time is of the essence. So, be sure to ask the plumber how soon they can start. An emergency situation may bring about additional fees so be sure to ask about that as well.
Call Doctor Fix-It
Hiring an experienced plumber is important if you want to avoid any major plumbing problems. Skip the search and contact us at Doctor Fix-It, and we’ll send an experienced professional your way. Our licensed and certified plumbing experts are available to help you with any plumbing issue, big or small in Denver, CO, and surrounding areas.
Schedule your service online and enjoy the service that encourages our clients to leave thousands of 5-star reviews and counting.
