When it comes to hiring a plumber, the question on every homeowner's mind is: should I take the risk and hire someone for my plumbing needs, or do I just call a friend or family member who claims they're cheap but might not be reliable? The answer lies in the quality of work, research, and reputation.
Quality of Work
A good plumber will have a reputation for being punctual, communicative, and skilled. Look for plumbers who have been licensed and insured for an extended period. They should also be certified by reputable organizations such as the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) or the Master Plumber Program.
- Punctuality: A reliable plumber will show up on time to your doorstep, no exceptions.
- Communication: A good plumber listens carefully to what you need, explains solutions in detail, and provides clear estimates before starting work.
- Skilled Labor: Your plumber should have the necessary skills to fix any issue or complete a project efficiently and effectively.
Research
Before hiring a plumber, research their company thoroughly. Check online reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, and Angie's List to gauge their reputation and quality of work. You can also ask friends or family members who have used the same service for recommendations.
- A good review should mention the reliability of the plumber, the quality of work, and any issues that arose during the project.
- Check if they're a member of local trade organizations such as the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).
R Reputation
A good plumber will have a reputation to uphold. A bad one might show up late, leave messy work sites, or even steal your money if they're not careful.
- Check if they've been involved in any disciplinary actions with the state licensing board or local authorities.
- A good plumber will also have liability insurance to protect you and their workers from accidents or property damage.
