Top Tips on How to Choose a Plumber
Whether you’re looking for routine maintenance, want to remodel your bathroom, or have a burst or leaking pipe on your hands, you need a plumber you can trust. Simply scrolling through local plumber listings and choosing the first option is not the way to go. Instead, you’ll want to take the time to find a plumber that offers quality service — otherwise, you may make a costly mistake.
To help you learn how to choose a plumber, we’ll cover what you should look for, including how to find a qualified professional and the questions to ask before hiring them.
What to Look for When Choosing a Plumber
There are many reasons to hire a professional plumber. Not all plumbers offer the same level of expertise, professionalism, or pricing. When choosing a plumbing professional, consider:
- Their years of experience. A qualified plumber who’s been in the game for decades is more likely to handle complex repairs effectively.
- Their availability. In a plumbing emergency, you need a plumber who can respond quickly and provide prompt service. Someone with a track record of flaking or only working two days a week is not ideal.
- Their qualifications. Always choose a plumber who is licensed and insured. Licensing ensures they meet industry standards, while insurance protects you in case of damages or accidents.
If you’re stuck on how to choose a plumbing company, looking at reviews and asking your friends and family for recommendations also go a long way in finding someone reliable.
How Do I Hire a Professional Plumber?
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of how to hire a professional plumber. Use these suggestions to find a good plumber in your area.
Look for Licensing and Insurance
Before hiring a plumber, confirm that they are licensed and insured. Licensing ensures they adhere to local plumbing codes, while insurance protects you from potential liabilities in case of accidents or damages.
Each state manages its own contractor licensing, so you’ll have to check locally to see if a plumber is licensed. However, plumbers can also join national organizations to gain more credibility. Some reputable national plumbing licensing associations include:
- Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association
- American Society of Plumbing Engineers
- United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices
- Plumbing Contractors of America
- National Kitchen and Bath Association
- Plumbers Without Borders
Check Reviews and Recommendations
Customer reviews can provide insight into a plumber’s reliability and service quality. Browse online reviews and ask for referrals from friends, family, or neighbors who have worked with a trusted plumber. Good places to look for reviews include:
- Yelp
- Better Business Bureau
Get Multiple Quotes and Ask About Pricing
Always get at least three quotes before making a decision. Request a breakdown of costs to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected expenses, including:
- Labor
- Materials
- Permitting costs
- Emergency rates
- Additional fees
Remember: cheaper does not always equal better. Accepting the lowest estimate could mean you’ll pay more to fix a shoddy repair job in the future. Getting multiple estimates helps you better understand the average cost so you’re not ripped off.
DIY vs. Professional Plumbing Services
Sometimes, you can handle minor plumbing issues with basic DIY solutions. Other times, you need a professional’s expertise and plumbing tools. Knowing when to DIY and when to call a professional can save you money and prevent costly damage.
When DIY is Acceptable
- Replacing a faucet or showerhead. This is a simple swap that usually requires just a wrench and plumber’s tape.
- Unclogging a simple drain blockage. A plunger or drain snake can usually clear hair or debris without professional help.
- Fixing a running toilet. Replacing the flapper or adjusting the fill valve can resolve most running toilet issues.
- Tightening loose pipe connections. If a pipe joint is leaking, carefully tightening it with a wrench may stop the drip.
When to Call a Professional
- Burst pipes or major leaks. Water damage can escalate quickly, requiring expert repairs.
- Sewer line issues. These require specialized tools and expertise to prevent further contamination.
- Water heater installation or repair. Ensures proper connections and prevents leaks or code violations.
- Low water pressure throughout the home. This usually indicates a hidden leak or serious pipe issue.
How to Find a Plumber Near You
If you need to know how to find a plumber, one good place to start is the internet. From there, you can branch out to in-person referrals.
Use Online Directories and Local Listings
Websites like Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, and the Better Business Bureau can help you find reputable plumbers in your area. Look for companies with high ratings and positive customer feedback. You might even find independent plumbers advertising on Craigslist and Facebook.
But the best way to find a reliable plumber online is to use Roto-Rooter. We’re at your service 24/7, 365 days a year, no matter the issue.
Ask for Recommendations
Word-of-mouth referrals from friends, family, or neighbors are often the best way to find a trustworthy plumber. If someone you trust has had a good experience, chances are you will, too.
Questions to Ask a Plumber Before Hiring
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of plumbers, the next thing to do is make sure they’re a good fit. Use this list of questions to ask a plumber before hiring them to find the perfect candidate:
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work?
- Can you provide an upfront estimate?
- Do you charge by the hour or by the job?
- What’s your availability for emergency services?
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Plumber
When you hire a qualified plumber, you’ll enjoy a ton of advantages, including:
- Expertise and proper tools: Plumbers have the knowledge and specialized tools to diagnose and fix plumbing issues efficiently.
- Faster repairs: A skilled plumber can quickly identify and resolve issues before they worsen.
- Code compliance: Professional plumbers ensure all work is up to code, preventing potential legal and safety issues.
- Warranties and guarantees: Many plumbers offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind.
How to Find a Plumber That’s Right For You
Choosing the right plumber requires research, comparison, and careful consideration. By checking credentials, reading reviews, and asking the right questions, you can find a plumber who meets your needs. Being proactive in your search will save you from scrambling during a plumbing emergency.
If you need expert plumbing services, don’t wait — start your search today with Roto-Rooter. Our highly trained plumbing experts are located across the country to help wherever you need it. Contact a plumber today by calling 800-768-6911 or scheduling your service online. Already scheduled your service? Find out what to expect here!