Hiring a Plumber
If you’re in the market for plumbing work, it’s important to be aware of a few common scams and avoid them. It’s also important to ask the right questions to make sure you get what you pay for. A warranty or guarantee is an excellent way to ensure that you’re not stuck with a half-finished job. Most plumbers will give you a 1-year guarantee on their work, and some even provide longer warranties such as three or five years.
You should always ask for a list of the plumbing products the plumber plans to use. For example, if the invoice says that the plumber is using Kohler or American Standard valves, but the valve in your shower is made of some other brand, it’s time to question why. Many plumbers offer a flat-rate option, which is more affordable than an hourly rate. This system allows you to have a clear idea of the amount of work that will be done and what you’re paying for it.
Most professional plumbers will come out to your home and look over the project. Once they have a good idea of what’s needed, they’ll offer you a price that includes materials and labor as well as a contingency for any problems that might arise.
7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Plumber
A good plumber should be able to provide you with references from previous clients. This will help you decide if they are a good choice for your project. You can also check online to see if other people have had positive or negative experiences with the plumber you’re considering.
Some plumbers may hire a subcontractor to do some of the work for them. This can be a great way to cut costs, but it is important that the contractor you choose has adequate insurance and experience. A reputable plumber should be able to inspect your entire plumbing system and let you know whether there are any leaks or other problems. This will allow you to get the work done quickly and effectively, so you won’t have any more issues down the road.
Many plumbers offer free estimates. However, some may only give you an estimate over the phone or without having seen your project firsthand. This can be a major mistake because an estimate that’s based on a quick look at the job doesn’t really mean much and will likely skyrocket once the job is underway.
A plumber that gives you a recurring invoice is a good sign that the company you’re dealing with is trustworthy and reputable. These invoices will usually take you step by step through the job, so you can see the progress of the project and be confident that it’s being completed correctly.