If you have ever witnessed the consequences of clogged drains or leaked plumbing system, then you will realize how crucial a good plumbing job can be. Even the smallest task associated with the plumbing system demands the skill and expertise of a professional, ensuring that it is carried out to perfection. This is the reason why proper research and attention is needed when you are planning to hire a plumber for your home improvement project.
To help you out, here is a checklist that you can follow to determine whether the professional that you are about to hire will be suitable for the task or not.
1. Qualifications and License
The first pointer revolves around the qualifications and license of a professional. By law, the plumbers that you choose must be licensed under their governing state so as to provide their services. In fact, a license is even a reflection of the standards the plumbers adhere to, without compromising the quality of services in any way.
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The key points of this aspect are:
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The qualifications of plumbers and associated workers
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For how long they have been in this industry
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Are they trained to use specialized equipment?
2. Insurance
Though often overlooked, plumbing is the soul of your property, where even the slightest problem can lead to water damage if not addressed on time.
Since plumbing system is an integral part of the house, you have to make sure that the plumber or the contractor that you are about to choose is insured with both the property and worker’s liability insurance. If any hazard occurs while managing the system, you can take advantage of the insurance and get your claim.
3. Service Cost & Other Charges
You must be aware of the expenses that will be involved up front to avoid surprises at the end. Generally, plumbers charge either per hour or on the basis of the project they are hired. You can discuss this with the plumber beforehand and let them know which one will be suitable for you.
Do remember, plumbers have fixed rates for certain services such as an installation of hot water systems, unblocking drains and leak repairs. You can ask for a price quote from at least couple of service providers to compare them with each other to find the best one who is capable of delivering the quality that you need at a reasonable value.
4. Have A Written Contract
When you have the plumber for minor tasks such as changing the faucet or repairing a tap then you do not need to sign a contract, whereas for improvement projects such as renovating the bathroom, you must opt for a plumber who provides you with a written contract before the work begins. The initial quote that will be given by the plumber will become legally binding, and other than that do include other important criteria:
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The details of the contract (type of project)
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The time required to complete the work
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Work charged per hour/per project
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Signature of both the customer and the plumber
5. Check Reviews and Complaints, if any
You have to make sure that your plumbing system is in safe hands. So, before finalizing the contractor, do look after the portfolio of the professional to know about the type of projects and services that they have handled before and the testimonials given by their previous customers focusing on what they have to say about them. With this, you will be able to find the right plumber who you always wanted to have for your plumbing needs.
Therefore, when you are looking for competent plumbers for home improvement or other plumbing maintenance services, do make use of the above checklist and find the best qualified plumbers.
