How to Find a Reputable Plumber

No one likes calling in a plumber. The work they do is expensive, and it always seems to cost more than quoted and take a longer time than promised. Plus, much like car repair shops, most people do not really understand the work a plumber is doing. It is extremely easy for a plumber to rip off a homeowner and overcharge them for work that did not really need to be done in the first place. There have been many documented cases of just such a thing happening. But sometimes, you simply have to call in a plumber to do some work. How can you be sure you are working with someone who is honest and knows what they are doing? Here are the things you need to know before you choose a plumber for your job.

The first thing you need to do is check out how satisfied customers have been with a plumber's work in the past. Asking around in your neighborhood and among your friends is a good way to start. Many of them will be able to recommend plumbers that they like as well as letting you in on some plumbing horror stories. Do not go by who has the most advertisements or who has been in business the longest. Unfortunately, many people go to a plumbing firm because they know they name from advertisements, and often these companies are the worst ones out there. The same thing happens with a company that has been in business for a long time. Name recognition does not mean good service in every case. A good plumber or plumbing company should be able to provide you with references upon request. If you are planning on hiring a plumber for a remodeling job rather than a simple repair, you should never accept a company that refuses to provide you with a set of references.

The internet can also be your friend in checking out plumbers. Many homeowners who have been burned by bad service maintain websites where they call out service people who have done bad work or ripped them off. Check these sites in your town and avoid the plumbers on those lists.

Hourly rates are another thing you want to check out before you hire a plumber. Call around and get a few quotes for a job. Find out if the plumber is willing to sign a quote and give you a price guarantee before he begins working. You should also find out if the plumber will charge you travel time to and from your job and how they will calculate that time and prove it to you. Giving you an exact price may be tough, but any plumber who can't give you a thorough explanation of how you will be billed with a ballpark figure of the price should be avoided.

Good plumbers are out there. Do your homework, and you will find one.