How to Find a Good Plumber
It’s 6am and you wake up to a flooded basement. It’s in these moments that you pinch yourself in hopes that it's just a nightmare. Sadly, this was the reality for a customer of ours just a couple weeks ago. We received the early morning call and came out to inspect and repair the leak. It came from their basement shower that had a pipe fitting completely pop off. Unfortunately, this was one of those cases that was completely avoidable had the previous plumber used the proper materials when installing the shower plumbing. Instead of using a glue to bind the fittings to the pipes, they had used a plumbing paste typically used for threaded pipe fittings. This resulted in a weak seal that eventually failed and caused their entire basement to flood.
This is just one story of many that illustrates the importance of choosing a qualified plumber to work on your home. Plumbing emergencies are incredibly stressful, damaging, and expensive moments that nobody ever wants to encounter. There’s nothing worse than trusting someone with the security of your home who can’t provide the service required. Knowing what to look for when hiring a plumber can help you select a trustworthy professional who will get the job done right. We understand how difficult this can be, so here’s a how-to with some essentials to look for when choosing a plumber for your home or business.
1. Verify Credentials: Licensing and Certification
The most foundational step in choosing a plumber is to ensure they are licensed and certified. Licensed plumbers have met state requirements, completed extensive training, and passed exams demonstrating their skills. A licensed plumber is also more likely to have insurance, protecting you in case of accidents or damages during the job. We’re often called in to repair jobs where we discover the cause of the issue to be a mistake made by the previous plumber or handyman.
You can check a plumber’s license by visiting your state’s licensing website, as most states allow you to verify a plumber’s credentials online. This verification process not only provides peace of mind but also ensures you’re hiring a professional who adheres to local regulations. In Georgia, you can use this link to verify any plumber’s licensing, including our own Master Plumber, Igor Bystrika.
2. Read Online Reviews and Check Ratings
It’s the digital age, so online reviews are the gold standard for assessing a plumber’s reputation. Reviews on platforms like Google can give you valuable insights into previous customers’ experiences and satisfaction levels. When reading reviews, look for recurring themes: Do customers consistently mention punctuality, reliability, and cleanliness? Avoid companies with a history of complaints about the same issue, such as overcharging or poor workmanship. Google makes this particularly easy with their “People Often Mention” feature that provides a quick look at recurrent themes.
3. Check for Experience
The longer a plumber has been in business, the more experienced and knowledgeable they are likely to be. An established company is usually a safer bet, as it shows they have built a positive reputation in the community with a foundation of experience. When browsing a plumbing company’s website, look for information on how long they’ve been operating and any notable achievements, certifications, or specialized services they offer.
It’s also beneficial to ask plumbers about their experience with specific issues you may be facing. For example, if you have a particularly challenging drain clog, a plumber with years of experience in drain cleaning is more likely to have the expertise and tools necessary to handle the problem. Don’t be afraid to ask them detailed questions about your particular situation.
4. Get Multiple Quotes and Compare Prices
Before choosing a plumber, it never hurts to grab quotes from several companies. Most reputable plumbers will offer free estimates, allowing you to compare pricing quickly without any commitment. When you receive quotes, ask about any additional charges for parts, labor, or travel fees. Be cautious of prices that seem too low; while affordability is essential, extremely low prices can sometimes indicate low-quality work or hidden fees. A plumber who’s transparent and upfront about pricing is always a good sign, as that honesty will likely reflect in their work as well.
5. Ask for Personal Referrals
Personal referrals are one of the most reliable ways to find a good plumber. Ask friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations based on their own experiences. Many people you know have likely worked with a plumber they trust and would recommend. Additionally, other tradespeople, such as electricians or contractors, often have professional connections and can provide recommendations based on their knowledge of local service providers.
6. Confirm Availability and Services Offered
Not all plumbers offer the same services, so ensure the plumber you choose can address your specific needs. Some plumbers specialize in residential plumbing, while others focus on commercial services. Additionally, check if the plumber is available for emergencies or weekend work if you anticipate needing service outside regular hours. Reliable plumbers will be clear about their hours of operation and services provided. As well as that, some plumbers are just too busy or bogged down by red tape to provide prompt service; we’ve encountered many customers who tell us that they were turned away or ignored by plumbers before finding us.
7. Evaluate Communication and Professionalism
Clear communication is the backbone of the service industry. A good plumber should be willing to discuss your issue, explain potential solutions, and provide a transparent estimate. Take note of their responsiveness to calls or messages; a professional plumber will answer your questions patiently and thoroughly. When it comes to work on your home, you shouldn’t be left in the dark about any of it. A willingness to explain and discuss the situation also shows that the plumber is knowledgeable and comfortable in their trade.
8. Look for Guarantees and Warranties
Reliable plumbers stand by their work. Many will offer guarantees or warranties on their services, providing you with extra assurance. Guarantees mean that the plumber is confident in the quality of their work and is committed to fixing any issues that may arise after completing the job. A warranty on parts or labor is also a bonus, ensuring you won’t encounter additional expenses if a problem pops up shortly after the repair.
9. Check the Company’s Website
A company’s website can reveal a lot about its professionalism and commitment to customer service. Look for details about the company’s services, experience, certifications, and customer testimonials. Many companies have detailed FAQs or blog sections that explain their processes, further proving their expertise and willingness to educate clients. A robust online presence can be proof of a well-run and trustworthy plumbing company.
10. Confirm the Plumber’s Preparation and Punctuality
Reliable plumbers come prepared with the necessary tools and parts to complete most jobs on the spot. During your initial conversation, ask if the plumber’s truck is stocked with essential equipment. A prepared plumber can often complete repairs more efficiently, saving you both time and money.
Questions to Ask Your Plumber
What is your experience with my specific issue?
How do you handle unexpected complications?
Can you provide references?
Do you provide a guarantee on your work?
Final Tips on Choosing the Right Plumber
Consider Emergency Services: Plumbing issues don’t always happen during business hours. Find out if the plumber offers emergency services or can recommend someone reliable for after-hours calls.
Observe Transparency and Attitude: A professional plumber should be transparent about their methods and costs, displaying an approachable and respectful attitude.
Expect Continuous Communication: From scheduling to job completion, good plumbers keep you informed every step of the way.
Why Rx-Plumbing is Cumming’s Top Choice
At Rx-Plumbing, we prioritize customer satisfaction, professional standards, and quality workmanship. Our team is licensed, insured, and equipped with advanced tools to handle any plumbing challenge. We combine Master Plumber expertise with years of experience and customer care to offer an unmatched plumbing experience for our Georgia neighbors. We’re proud to set ourselves apart with transparent and empathetic communication that gives you the peace of mind needed while dealing with plumbing issues. We’re grateful to our many customers who’ve been kind enough to review our service and recommend us to their friends and family. We hold ourselves to a five-star standard that powers every aspect of our company.
Don’t leave your plumbing needs to chance. Trust RX-Plumbing for a professional, hassle-free experience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or request a free quote, and let us provide you with the trusted service you deserve.
