A plumber is a qualified tradesperson hired to install, maintain and repair pipes, drains and sewage in the home or business.
From a simple blocked tap or toilet to installing water systems in new builds and renovations, plumbing jobs can vary in size and scope. To protect your property and ensure problems are fixed before they escalate, choose a reliable, efficient and qualified plumber to carry out the work professionally.
With so much choice, here are our 9 tips to choose a plumber who won’t compromise on quality.
- Cost
- Reputation
- Well prepared
- Respect for your property
- Licensed and insured
- Quality guarantee
- Reviews and recommendations
- Reliability
- Specialist advice
1) Cost
When choosing a plumber, it’s important to consider the cost of the service. While the cheapest option might seem attractive, keep in mind that if a price sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It’s important to ensure that the plumber’s quote is reasonable and that corners aren’t cut.
The cost of materials required to carry out a plumbing job is fairly standard across the industry, and a reputable plumber will provide an upfront quote and a payment schedule. Be aware that some plumbers charge per hour, while others charge per job.
To avoid any surprises, make sure you understand the plumber’s pricing structure before booking the work. Choosing a plumber based solely on price can be risky and may result in subpar service. A good plumber should be able to offer a balance between cost and quality service.
2) Reputation counts
When looking for a reliable plumber, it’s essential to consider their reputation. A reputable plumber will have a good standing in the community, and their reputation will precede them. One way to check a plumber’s reputation is to look for signs of their presence in the community such as signage on their vans or local advertisements.
Another way to check a plumber’s reputation is to ask for word-of-mouth reviews from friends, family, or neighbors who have previously used their services. Online reviews can also be a good source of information but keep in mind that not all online reviews are genuine, thus it’s important to check multiple sources. A good plumber should have a combination of good reviews, recommendations and a good reputation in the local area.
3) Well prepared
When searching for a plumber, it’s important to look for a professional who is well-equipped to handle common repair jobs. The best plumbers will have the tools and necessary parts on their vans to fix the most common repair jobs, so they don’t waste time leaving the property to go and buy what they need. This can save you time and money in the long run. Additionally, a reputable plumber should be able to provide an upfront quote and communicate well during the initial enquiry stage. This ensures that there are no surprises when it comes to pricing and that the plumber understands your needs and concerns. Look for a plumber who is transparent, professional and able to provide you with all the necessary information before the job starts.
4) Respect for your property
The plumber you choose should clean up and remove the debris from the job instead of leaving you with the headache of calling someone else to dump rubbish or clean up at an added cost. Ask about the condition they will leave the property before you book.
5) Licensed and insured
While regulations vary from state to state, in New South Wales, someone must hold a license before they can carry out any plumbing, draining or gas fitting.
Accidents happen and the plumber must have insurance for personal and property damage to avoid you being left with the bill should something unexpected happen while they are on your property.
You’re entitled to see evidence of relevant licenses, qualifications and insurances held before work begins.
6) Quality guarantee
It is disheartening to pay for a repair and have the same problem reoccur a couple of months later. A reputable plumber will guarantee their work for a stipulated period. This will be written into the quote before they take on the job, so you know you’re covered.
7) Reviews and recommendations
In a sea of internet search results, a plumber with a good reputation isn’t always that easy to find.
Once you’ve found a local plumber, check Google reviews and visit the plumber’s website to check testimonials from past clients. A good plumber won’t mind you asking for references or giving examples of their work.
Social media is another popular channel for reviews. In our digital age, it is hard for a plumber to hide poor reviews so carry out thorough online research before booking the plumber.
8) Reliability
Many people are disappointed when they have planned their day or week around having a plumber come in to do a job and they fail to show up. Sometimes it cannot be avoided, but a reliable plumber will send out someone at the time planned, and if this is not possible, telephone and arrange for an alternate day.
Plumbers with a depot, a sign-written vehicle and multiple staff are unlikely to disappear leaving a job half-finished because they ran out of time or double booked themselves.
9) Specialist advice
Before planning a renovation, ask your plumber to check the functionality of the layout you envisage. The professionals can advise you on the most aesthetically pleasing, functional and cost-effective design.
Once you have contacted a reliable plumber, keep their number handy. You never know when you’ll need their services!
To find out more about the plumbing service available at HPG Solutions, contact us today.
