How to Choose the Right Plumbing Contractor for Your Needs

The plumbing industry is notorious for requiring extensive knowledge and expertise. Plumbers specialize in different areas and can unclog pipes, install toilets and water lines and even repair septic systems.

Plumbing contractors are also skilled in building plumbing infrastructures for new homes. This is why they work side by side with builders and remodeling companies.

Experience

The longer a plumbing company has been in business, the more likely they are to have accumulated experience that helps them to provide quality services. You can find out about their experience by asking them to provide you with references and reviews from their past customers or check their website for this information.

It is also worth checking whether the plumbing company uses its own staff or subcontractors, and if the latter, how long they have been working for them. You may want to choose a company that has its own employees, as this ensures that the people who are going to be working in your home have passed the necessary background checks. This will give you peace of mind that they will treat your property with respect and care.

Reputation

It is important for plumbers to have an excellent online reputation, since most clients schedule services with the plumbing companies they trust. This can be achieved by encouraging happy homeowners to share their experiences on websites like Yelp or Google reviews.

Additionally, a good plumbing company will have supportive customer care that is available 24/7. They should also have a portfolio of previous projects and a track record that proves they are reputable.

It is also a good idea to get quotes from several contractors. This will help you determine which one offers the best value. Remember, you should never settle for a low-cost contractor that provides substandard work. A reputable plumber will always offer great service and affordable prices. They will also provide a warranty for their services.

License

If a plumbing contractor has a license, it is an indication that they’ve passed a series of tests to show their competence. They also have to agree to abide by certain rules when working with clients and do their best to meet customer satisfaction.

Licensed plumbers will have the latest tools and equipment, such as powerful hydro-jetting devices to clear drains, and cameras to locate leaks and sewer problems. These tools will help them fix any plumbing issues quickly and efficiently.

When choosing a plumbing service, it is important to consider the length of time they have been in business. New professionals may not have the necessary skills to fix any problems. Besides, you should check whether they have insurance in case something goes wrong.

Insurance

In addition to a license, plumbers should also have the proper insurance coverage to protect themselves and their customers. Plumbing contractor insurance typically covers a range of potential liabilities that could result in expensive lawsuits. Some of these policies include general liability insurance, which provides coverage for damages to third-party property or bodily injury, and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, which provides protection for costly mistakes made by the company’s employees.

Larger businesses may also need commercial property insurance, which covers the cost of a building or equipment owned by the business, and workers’ compensation insurance, which helps pay for medical treatments for injuries sustained at work. Many states require these types of policies for contractors. Other optional coverages may include umbrella liability insurance and business auto insurance.

Warranty

A reputable plumbing contractor will offer a warranty for their work. This can be an important factor in choosing a plumber, as it shows that they stand behind their work and products. Make sure you get a copy of the warranty before hiring a plumber.

A warranty should cover parts and labor. You should also check the duration of the coverage and whether it includes re-installation or replacement costs. If you don’t understand the coverage, it is best to ask a customer service representative to explain it to you.

Licensed plumbing professionals are more experienced than a general handyman and will be familiar with building codes and ensure that your property is compliant. This will save you in the long run from costly repairs and state fines.