There are so many situations where we fail to ask the right questions and then regret it later. Maybe it’s because we are afraid to offend the person, or we don’t want to appear intrusive. When it comes to hiring a plumber, we know we are supposed to do a bit of grilling, but most of us tend to skip this part.
Yes, you may look for reviews online, dig up a few answers from the plumber’s website, or ask a former client. But the only way you can avoid disappointments, costly replacements due to shoddy work, and steer clear of disputes is to ask the right questions before hiring a plumber. If you are scouting for a plumber in Sarasota/Bradenton, here are six crucial questions you should ask.
Are You Licensed?
The first question to ask a plumber is whether they are fully licensed. A licensed plumber undergoes extensive training and field practice for at least four years and takes a written exam covering everything from troubleshooting problems and installations to building code requirements. A license is simply the best proof that the plumber can tackle any plumbing problem you throw at them.
Are You Insured?
This is a huge one. You need to make sure that the plumber you are hiring has insurance that will cover you in case a mistake causes damage to your property and covers the contractor if they accidentally get injured on the job. And there is no harm in requesting to see the certificate of insurance to confirm validity.
What are your Credentials and References?
The plumber has a license, is insured, and seems to tick all boxes so far. But how do you know you’ll be satisfied with their work? You gather the opinions of previous clients. Apart from online reviews, ask the plumber to provide at least three references you can contact to verify their reputation. Again, ask for credentials that show the plumber is committed to their trade. This includes membership into plumber unions and other national and local organizations.
How is Your Price Calculated?
As much as you want to get the job done right, you don’t want nasty surprises at the end of a repair or replacement. For clear expectations, ask questions about pricing. Different plumbers use different methods to calculate the cost of the work. Typically, most offer a flat rate for smaller jobs. Some plumbers use an hourly rate for bigger projects, while others calculate the total cost before the project starts. To be safe, avoid plumbers who demand full payment upfront.
Will I Receive a Detailed Estimate?
A written estimate will help you crunch the numbers, prevent pricing disputes, and eliminate surprises at the end of the project. To give an estimate, the plumber has to visit your property and examine the problem. Apart from service charge, the plumber also factors in materials, labor, a contingency for any issues, and how long they think the job will take. Preferably, get estimates from different reputable plumbing companies and compare the prices.
What is your Typical Response Time?
Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, and some can quickly destroy your home if not addressed swiftly. So. you’ll want a plumber who can respond during odd hours, weekends, and holidays when emergency strikes. If they offer 24/7 emergency service, the better.
Talk to a Qualified and Experienced Sarasota Plumber
At Veteran Air & Plumbing, we are more than happy to answer any questions you might have. We are always open, transparent, and reliable, and we abide by the highest industry standards. Whether you want an estimate or to consult a professional plumber, feel free to get in touch with us!
