Hiring a good plumbing service doesn’t need to be hard, all you have to do is ask the plumber these five questions! If they have all the answers, great; if not, move on to the next plumber. Get ready to find the best plumber!

“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” - Alexander Graham Bell

Are you licensed?

A license guarantees the plumber is fit to complete the job.
A license guarantees the plumber is fit to complete the job. Image source: The Family Handyman

Not only to plumbers, but you should ask this question to any kind of service you’re hiring. If the plumber you’re hiring can’t show you their license, that could be a sign of trouble ahead. Avoid plumbers who don’t have the proper credentials.

Have you performed this type of job before?

It's important to ask for previous experience on hte job.
It’s important to ask for previous experience on the job. Image source: The Chriselle Factor

Of course, pretty much all plumbers should be able to manage the smaller jobs like leak repairs and clogged drains.

However,

If it’s a bigger job, you’ll want to check for past experience and capability of the plumber to handle that type of project. Ask for examples and maybe photos, if they can provide those, that’ll be great!

Can you provide me some references?

Talk to people who already used this plumber's service.
Talk to people who already used this plumber’s service. Image source: doityourself

Aside from asking for previous experience, also ask for references. Talking to a plumber’s previous clients can be really helpful for you to make your final decision. When you speak to a former customer, ask about:

  • What kind of project they hired the plumber for
  • How long it took to complete the job
  • Unexpected expenses and how it was dealt

And most of all: if the person would recommend and hire this plumber again.

Can you provide me an estimate in writing?

Even a simple drain unclogging asks for an estimate.
Even a simple drain unclogging asks for an estimate. Image source: Better Homes & Gardens

Ask the estimate to be given to you written down.

In fact,

It’s actually more important to have a quote written down - that’s because estimates may vary along the project, while quotes are the most accurate price you’ll pay.

How do you expect payment?

Never pay the whole project upfront.
Never pay the whole project upfront. Image source: Bobvila

Whether it’s on cash or on credit card, upfront (though it’s not recommended to hire a pro who requires upfront payment) or upon completion of the task, and if conditions change according to the type of project. Make sure to have all your doubts cleared out regarding the payment you’ll make.

Ready to start your plumbing project? Get a free quote here!

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