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Whether you need a small leak repaired, or all the pipes pulled out and
reinstalled, hiring a plumber can be a daunting job, particularly if
your situation is an emergency. Knowing what to look for and the right
questions to ask can make the process a great deal easier.
There are a number of good resources when you are trying to hire a
plumbing professional, including the phone book and the internet;
however, many tradespeople choose to advertise their services in the
local newspapers and business directories, as well, so donÂ’t neglect
these options when you begin your search. Check with your local city
council or Chamber Of Commerce to see if they provide recommendations or
referrals for such service professionals.
Once youÂ’ve located a few that you think may fit the bill, there are a
few things you should check. First, find out if they are both licensed
and insured. Also check to see if a plumber has been certified by the
state where the work will be done. DonÂ’t just take his word for it; ask
to see an official identification card attesting to his license. The
card should also clearly state who he is insured by, and the date the
insurance went into effect.
The information about his certification would also be displayed on the
card. Get in touch with the licensing agency and the Better Business
Bureau in your community to make sure that the license is current, and
find out if anyone has filed a complaint about him recently. It probably
wouldnÂ’t hurt to give the insurance company a call, as well, just to
make sure everything is current. While you have them on the line,
remember to ask if the candidate has workmanÂ’s compensation and
liability coverage.
Some states also require compliance certificates for jobs that are more
than $500. If this is mandatory where you are having the work done, be
sure that each of your prospects will be able to provide one when the
work is finished.
After youÂ’ve checked that each of the candidatesÂ’ license and insurance
was valid, set up a mini-interview with each prospective plumber. Ask
how long she has been in business, and what types of jobs sheÂ’s worked
on most often. Ask for the names of one or two previous customers who
would be willing to speak with you regarding her experience working with
you. If references are provided, contact them. Let the person you speak
with know that you are considering hiring Mrs. Smith to do some
plumbing work, you understand that they used this individual, and you
want to know how successful the business relationship was. Ask them what
type of job was done, if it was completed within the estimated time
frame, and within the allotted budget. Was the individual on time? Did
she treat you and your family with courtesy and respect? Ask if there
were any problems during the project, and how were they resolved.
If you are considering hiring someone who works for a plumbing company,
find out about the businessÂ’s performance record. Specifically, find out
how many complaints they had in the last few years, what problems
occurred, and how the issue was resolved. Once you decide on a plumber,
ask about his rates, then call around to make sure that his prices are
with reason compared with his competitors. You should also ask for a
free in-home inspection, which any reputable plumber will be happy to
provide.
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Need help finding a plumber, Wichita
residents can find top notch professionals here: www.geplumbingkansas.com