Hiring a Plumber: 4 Questions You Should Ask

Jun 27
07:34

2012

Anna Woodward

Anna Woodward

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Here are some questions to ask your plumber before you get started. It is important to do a little research before you let someone into your home.

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If you're in a position to need a plumber,Hiring a Plumber: 4 Questions You Should Ask Articles or just want to have a professional come out and inspect your pipes, the decisions you make when hiring can make a big difference in the service you receive. Like any profession, there are both good contractors and bad ones. There are those who are honest to a fault and those who wouldn't tell the truth even if they would profit more from honesty. While reading reviews and asking for recommendations is always a good way to find someone, here are four questions you should ask before you commit to laying out your money.

What payments do you accept?
This is important, especially in an age where many people have gone nearly costless. You don't want to hire a plumber who accepts only cash or checks, only to realize that you have neither on hand. This can lead to an embarrassing situation, at best. While there may be no difference in quality between a contractor who only works in cash and checks and one who accepts credit cards, it can certainly make a difference when it comes to convenience. If you do pay cash, of course, make sure you get a receipt.

What is your cost for a home visit?
Some homeowners are surprised when they get a bill, seeing as how the plumber didn't do anything. But their time is valuable, too, and they can't afford to drive out to every potential customer's home for a freebie. Still, they should be honest and upfront about the charges. Some contractors will even cancel out the initial consultation cost if you go through with the repairs. Whether they do or don't, you need to know what you're looking at in terms of payment. If you are going through with repairs, make sure you get a written estimate first.

What are your working hours?
If a plumber only works from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon on weekdays, it may be difficult and inconvenient to schedule an appointment. If this dovetails nicely with your schedule, it may be a non-issue. However, if you need hours that have a bit more flexibility, don't settle on a contractor until you find someone that offers what you need. There are plenty out there who keep extended business hours.

Do you offer emergency services?
This is a big one. Sometimes a plumbing problem arises that requires immediate attention. This isn't a time when you want to have to repeat this process, looking for someone who can come out right away. Find someone to hire as your regular plumber who also offers emergency services. That way, you'll know just who to call if something goes wrong.

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