Choosing a plumber is an important decision you should not take lightly as a homeowner. A plumber takes care of some of the most important areas of the house, such as the toilet, faucet, water heater and piping system. Failure to hire the right firm can result in dangerous and costly repairs in the future. Here are some important things you need to consider when hiring.
License
Every person who offers plumbing services in your neighborhood must have a valid operating license. A license shows that the firm has met all the requirements put in place by the regulatory authorities. Not all states require plumbers to have a license. States like New York and Kansas allow people to practice as long as they have the skills needed to do so. You can check online to see if your state requires licensing.
Insurance
A good plumbing company must have an insurance coverage. Insurance is important because it covers accidents and property damage that might occur at the site. This means you won’t have to pay for any unfortunate event that occurs. A good coverage should not be less than $5 million.
Scope of Service
Plumbers have their areas of specialization. Some specialize in foundation plumbing repair while others concentrate on light repairs within the house. You need a plumber who offers services that match your needs.
Experience
Let the plumbing company tell you how long they have been in business. A good company should have worked in your area for a period not less than five years. Several years means that the company has a proven record of quality service. Do not forget to ask about the experience levels of their workers. The employees should be well trained and have a lot of experience as well.
Customer Service
You need a plumbing company with an effective customer support system. They must be available 24/7 to address customer problems and answer their questions. The company should also have emergency engineers who can work round the clock. If a water boiler were to break in your house, you need an assurance that the company will handle it immediately you notify them.
Price
The plumbing company will access the problem and give you an accurate estimate of the amount you need to pay for the repair. Make sure you get at least four estimates and compare them. Avoid estimates that are much lower than the rest. The company could be using the price to cover up for their lack of experience. It could also mean the company plans to use inferior spare parts.
Warranty
All plumbers must have warranties to guarantee their work. A good warranty should cover the work for at least one year. Be wary of people who promise you quality service without a warranty.
Remember the plumbing systems in your house are very important. Do not hire a plumber who does not have the right qualifications and skills to work on them. Make sure the plumber has a high level of experience, valid operating license, insurance coverage and warranty before you finalize any deal.
