If you own a home, sooner or later you’re going to have some plumbing problems. It’s not necessarily anybody’s fault, except the pipes in your newer or older home. That’s when you may need a plumber.
Looking for a plumber in Atlanta or any other metropolitan city can be difficult, if you don’t know how to get around it. Courtesy of our Home Improvement series, we can help you.
This article will show you step-by-step how to hire a plumber for your home or business.
The reason why you need to be careful with who you hire to fix your pipes is because there are a lot of scammers out there. But let’s start with the problem and go from there.
Identify Your Plumbing Issue
To the best of your ability you need to find out what exactly is the problem with your plumbing. Is there a leak? Do you have water damage on a floor, the ceiling or between the walls?
Determine the specific plumbing issue you need to address. Is it a leak, a clogged drain, a water heater problem, or a larger plumbing project like a bathroom remodel? Understanding your needs will help you find a plumber with the right expertise.
Shop For a Plumber
It’s time to go plumber-shopping. You can do this online but you also need to gather recommendations from friends, family and associates.
Seek recommendations from people who have had positive experiences with plumbers in your area. Personal referrals can be valuable because they have the trust factor.
The easiest way to compare plumbers is to get online and do research. Use online platforms, such as review websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau, to find highly-rated plumbers in your locality.
If you can, interview multiple plumbers. Contact several plumbers to discuss your project. Ask about their experience, qualifications, and if they have experience with the type of work you need.
Inquire about their availability and rates for service calls or estimates.
Check Their Credentials
What you want is a licensed contractor who knows how to do the job you want. Some plumbers specialize in different areas. Some may only do construction. Others may be geared toward bathroom remodels. Don’t skip the opportunity to verify that the plumber is licensed to work in your area. Contact your local licensing board to confirm their credentials.
Ensure the plumber carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you in case of accidents or damage on your property.
Once you’ve checked the credentials of a plumber it’s time to contact them to see if they have the time, skills and availability to solve your plumbing issue.
Contact the Plumber
Maintain open and clear communication with the plumber throughout the project. Discuss the timeline, any potential issues, and ensure you are both on the same page regarding the work to be done.
Ensure that the plumber will obtain any necessary permits for your project. They should also adhere to local building codes and regulations.
Request Written Estimates
Because plumbers you talk to are going to tell you what you want to hear, make sure you get everything you want in writing.
Ask for written estimates from the plumbers you are considering. Make sure the estimates are detailed, outlining the scope of work, materials, labor costs, and any potential additional charges.
Compare the estimates to determine the most reasonable cost.
Sign a contract that includes all project details, payment terms, start and completion dates, and any warranties.
Don’t Forget About References and Reviews
Request references from the plumber and contact them to inquire about their experiences and satisfaction with the plumber’s work.
You’ll also want to research online reviews and ratings to gauge the plumber’s reputation and reliability.
Agree On Payment
After a conversation of all the expenses involved in the job, it’s time to agree on the cost of the plumbing job.
Avoid paying the full cost upfront. Payment schedules should be based on project milestones, with the final payment made upon satisfactory completion of the work.
Don’t be afraid to ask about guarantees and warranties. Inquire about any warranties or guarantees on the work performed. A reputable plumber should stand behind their work and materials.
Communicate Early and Often
While the job is being done, you’ll want to stay in open communication with the plumber to head off any issues or unexpected problems that arise.
After the work is completed, it’s up to you to perform a final inspection to ensure that the plumbing issue has been resolved to your satisfaction.
Leave a Review and Feedback After the Job Is Done
Consider leaving a review or providing feedback on the plumber’s performance. Your feedback can be helpful for others in need of plumbing services.
Final Word
Hiring a qualified and reputable plumber is crucial to ensure that your plumbing issues are addressed professionally and efficiently. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want and that includes:
- Asking for written estimates
- Asking for references
- Telling the plumber what you want
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and find a plumber who meets your specific needs.
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