3 Basic Factors To Consider When Buying New Plumbing Fixtures And/Or Materials

3 Basic Factors To Consider When Buying New Plumbing Fixtures And/Or Materials

admin • Dec 18, 2017

Just like in any other business sector, the plumbing industry is home to countless products and brands. And just like in every other manufacturing industry, all these brands vary in quality and cost. In the grand scheme of things, high quality plumbing products are expansive and vice versa. One of the most fundamental considerations when sourcing for any type of plumbing fixture, installation, or materials is the intended or expected site of installation or deployment. Plumbing products are created or produced from a wide range of raw materials. In addition to quality, cost, and installation/application, you should also consider the environmental friendliness or eco-friendliness of any plumbing product. The following discussion focuses on the three major decision factors for all plumbing purchases and plumbing upgrades.

Cost Vs Quality

The cost of most plumbing installations and materials is very much dependent on their quality. As such, you should always consider and evaluate the quality of any item in relation to its cost. The quality of most plumbing products is easily discernible from its warranty guarantee, its regulatory approval and certification, particularly by mandated government organizations like the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and the general brand reputation.

Although professional companies offering Fredericksburg emergency plumbing services will help resolve any hitches in your plumbing system following the installation of low quality plumbing components, you will end up incurring service charges because of bad purchase decisions. As such, you should always try to achieve some balance between the cost of a particular plumbing product and its quality to enhance its functionality and longevity.

Site Of Installation Vs. Construction/Composition

The functional suitability and overall longevity of a given type of plumbing component depends on its material or bodily makeup/constitution. The item’s physical construction is also an integral factor in the computation of its price. For instance, plumbing pipes are mainly produced from either metal, plastic polymers, or concrete. Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC (plastic) pipes are relatively cheap as compared to the other two types. They are also quite strong, durable, and versatile in design and installation. For outdoor plumbing needs, you should choose hardy fixtures, and materials that are not easily corroded and those that can withstand harsh weather and environmental conditions. Specialized plumbing installations like water heaters should be outfitted with insulated pipes, which are capable of carrying very hot water without being damaged.

Environmental Friendliness

In order to promote environmental conservation/preservation, you should do your best to curb resource wastage. This means that you should always go for plumbing installations, fixtures and appliances that are energy and water efficient. Energy efficient plumbing products prevent energy loss or wastage and you can easily pick them out by looking for the Energy Star certification mark of EPA. Same case with water efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances; they are all certified and marked by EPA. In some cases, Eco-friendly plumbing materials are recycled or made from recycled compounds. You should adopt stringent green measures, such as an unwavering preference for nonpolluting plumbing products to reduce your carbon footprint. In addition to ensuring minimal resource loss in your plumbing system, eco-friendly systems are also supposed to protect you from unprecedented system faults or breakages. In other words, all your plumbing products must be of exemplary quality to ensure optimal performance. Low quality plumbing installations can malfunction any time leading to unprecedented system faults. Additionally, system defects like leaking pipes cause water loss and leaking sewer systems causing hazardous waste spills and pollution, thereby undermining your environmental conservation/preservation efforts

How to Choose a Plumber for Your Home Plumbing Needs

Plumbing issues can be quite troublesome and, if left unattended, can lead to costly damages to your home. Hiring a reliable and skilled plumber is crucial to maintaining a fully functional and safe plumbing system. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? In this article, a professional plumber from The Cajun Plumber will guide you through the process of selecting a plumber for your home plumbing needs.

  1. Gather Recommendations and Research Online

Start by asking friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a reliable source of information, as people usually share their experiences, both positive and negative, with particular plumbers or companies. Online reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List can provide valuable insights into the quality of work and customer service provided by local plumbers. Keep in mind that while one or two negative reviews should not deter you, a pattern of negative feedback is a red flag.

  1. Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance

In most regions, plumbers are required to hold a valid license to practice their trade. Before hiring a plumber, verify that they have the necessary licensing, which indicates that they have met the required education and training standards. Additionally, a licensed plumber is more likely to be familiar with local building codes and regulations.

Insurance is another essential factor to consider. A reputable plumber should have both liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect both you and their workers in case of accidents or damages during the project. Ask for proof of insurance before signing any contracts.

  1. Look for Experience and Specializations

Experience is crucial when it comes to plumbing work. A plumber with several years of experience is likely to have encountered a wide range of plumbing issues and will be better equipped to handle any unexpected complications that may arise during the project. Make sure to ask how long they have been in business and about their experience with projects similar to yours.

Some plumbers may also have specializations in specific areas, such as repairing water heaters, installing gas lines, or handling complex sewer problems. If your project requires a particular expertise, it’s essential to choose a plumber with the relevant experience and training in that area.

  1. Request Multiple Quotes

Obtaining multiple quotes from different plumbers allows you to compare prices, services, and timelines to make an informed decision. While the cost should not be the sole determining factor, a reasonable and transparent quote can help you avoid potential hidden fees or unexpected charges. Be cautious of any quotes that are significantly lower than others, as this may indicate a lack of experience or poor-quality workmanship.

  1. Assess Communication and Professionalism

Good communication and professionalism are vital aspects of a successful plumbing project. Pay attention to how promptly the plumber responds to your inquiries and whether they are courteous and respectful. A reliable plumber should be willing to answer your questions, explain their recommendations, and provide clear information about the project’s scope, cost, and timeline. Professionalism also extends to the plumber’s appearance and punctuality, as well as the cleanliness and organization of their workspace.

  1. Verify References and Ask for a Written Contract

Before making your final decision, ask the plumber for references from recent clients. Speaking with past customers can give you an idea of the quality of the plumber’s work and their level of customer satisfaction. Finally, insist on a written contract that outlines the project’s scope, materials, timeline, and payment terms. A detailed contract can help protect both you and the plumber and minimize potential disputes.

Conclusion

Choosing a plumber for your home plumbing needs is a critical decision that can impact the safety and functionality of your plumbing system. By following the steps outlined in this article – gathering recommendations, checking for proper licensing and insurance, looking for experience and specializations, requesting multiple quotes

The Advantages of Hiring Plumbing Contractors

“Why should I hire licensed plumbing contractors when I can get it done cheaper?”

This is a question that we’re asked frequently.  But if you’ve turned on your faucet today and clean water has flowed, or if you’ve flushed your toilet and it didn’t back up, then you thank a licensed plumbing contractor.

Often people believe that they can save money by cutting corners and either doing their own plumbing, or hiring an unlicensed handyman.  And, quite honestly, sure…that IS something that you can do, however, here are five reasons to consider hiring a plumbing contractor:

1.  They are licensed.  The Florida Plumbing Contractor licensing process is so rigorous that only 30% of people taking the exam pass the first time.  There are two parts to the exam (business and finance and trade).  In addition to passing the exam, licensees must submit a personal credit report with a net worth of $2,500-20,000, depending on the classification.  As licensed plumbing contractors, All American Plumbing Services has the training and experience necessary for basic repairs, reconstruction and new construction.

2.  They are experienced.  Florida plumbing contractors must document at least 4 years of prior experience, as well as taking and passing continuing education classes throughout their careers.  This means that we’re up to date with the codes necessary to keep you safe and do the job right.

3.  You’re protected.  By hiring a licensed professional, you can be assured that certain legal and financial standards are maintained.  For instance, in order to be licensed, each candidate must pass a criminal background check.  Additionally, a minimum of $100,000 worth of bodily harm insurance and $25,000 worth of property damage must be carried by all licensed plumbing contractors.

4.  Legalities.  Most plumbing work is required by law to be done by a licensed professional plumber.  If you hire someone who isn’t, not only are you risking shoddy workmanship, but depending on the situation, you could be creating a dangerous situation for yourself and those around you.

5.  Your insurance might not cover unlicensed work.  Using someone who’s not licensed could void your insurance policy.

These 5 reasons for hiring a licensed plumbing contractor give you a peace-of-mind knowing that you are protected from a legal or insurance fiasco. In addition, knowing that you have built a relationship with a credible, experienced and dependable plumber to take care of challenging or simple plumbing situations when they arise is priceless. So go ahead and buy the generic peanut butter, toilet paper or soda, but don’t skimp-out on who takes care of your plumbing no matter how nice the handyman down the street is to you.

How to Hire a Qualified, Reasonable & Reliable Plumber

Plumber working on a faucet

Looking for a Plumbing Contractor?

Stuck with a leaky faucet? Thinking about redoing your bathroom or kitchen? You could use a plumbing contractor. There may be a lot of pros out there who can do the job for you. Here’s how to determine what you need.

How to Find Reasonable, Qualified & Reliable Plumbers

Dealing with plumbing issues demands quick action, but you need to know who to call. The cost to hire a plumber is only one part of the equation. Before you start asking for estimates, do a little research to narrow down the list to the most qualified service professionals in your area.

Read Reviews & Get Recommendations for Trustworthy and Reputable Plumbers

When homeowners need to hire a professional, they often start asking local friends and family for suggestions. This approach can help identify someone near you who has a reliable reputation. Remember that some personal recommendations may not be appropriate for your project, and that you should always verify the pro’s qualifications on your own. Start by visiting online directories with pre-screened professionals to read reviews about various companies and contractors you might call. While you might see a negative review or two for any business, a series of problematic experiences should raise a red flag. You’ll be more likely to get balanced feedback from organizations that follow up on the pros listed on their sites.

Research a Plumber’s License and Insurance

States generally control licensing for people in professional trades like plumbing. You can usually visit the state licensing board to see if a person holds a current license. Most of the time (but not always), a valid license means that the professional also carries state-mandated insurance and bonding. When you start vetting companies, ask for proof of insurance.

Choose Between Independent Plumbing Contractors & Large Companies

As you start to browse through your options, you’ll discover independent contractors and companies with several plumbers on staff. Bigger businesses could have a team of people available to address your problem at any time. However, the person who comes to your home may not be the one holding the company’s certifications. Independent plumbing contractors with a current license often have more experience, but they may book up quickly. The one you pick depends on what you need done, and how quickly.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Plumber

When you make the first phone call, pay attention to how you feel as you go through your list of questions to ask a plumber before hiring. To get more information about the company, describe your concerns in as much detail as you can.

Qualities to Look For When Hiring a Professional Plumber

plumber

Plumbers are one of the most important people you can hire for your home improvement or issues. Toilets and kitchens are essential for every household and their plumbing must be done perfectly. Any issues in these areas can be costly if not fixed immediately and can also make the house inhabitable. That’s why you need to find a professional plumber that will ensure that they fix any issues properly and that these issues will not arise again in the near future. Look for these qualities when you’re looking to hire the right professional plumber.

Proper Credentials

When contacting a professional plumbing company, ask for their credentials. A reputable professional plumber will happily show you their certifications, licenses, insurance, and bonds. You can check their website to find these credentials, and if they are not listed on the site, you can ask to see a copy of them. Keep in mind to check if all the credentials are current and up to date; some plumbers may show you an expired working license. You should also check for reviews on the company, whether on review websites, their own website, or by contacting people who are familiar with their services. Reading these reviews will give you an insight into their quality of work, punctuality, and attitude.

Respectful

A professional plumber will always be respectful of your time and home. When you are scheduling a visit, they will show up on time. Even if they have an emergency and won’t be able to show up in time, they will call to inform you. This is what shows professionalism and respect for your time. You also want someone who will respect your home when they enter it and not cause chaos. Plumbers may take a few hours to finish their work and a professional plumber will be mindful that you live there. They should cover their shoes or take them off before entering your house, and they should tidy up after finishing their work.

Prepared

Leaving the kitchen in a mess is not a sign of a professional plumber. The plumber must have all the tools they need to do their job as well as clean up after they’re done. They should also have any tools they may need in case a complication arises. Being prepared doesn’t only show professionalism, but according to professional plumbers at All Service Plumbers, it also shows they are experienced and that they’ve fixed similar problems before. Some incompetent plumbers may try to charge you for the wasted time and overestimate the problem to get paid more. So make sure to agree on a price before they begin working.

Their Pricing Method

There are various pricing methods that most professional plumbing companies use. Some plumbers charge you by milestones, and in that case, you pay only for the work done that is satisfactory to you. Other plumbing companies charge by the hour which can come in handy if you know how long they will be working. In any case, a professional plumber will give you an estimate of the cost even before entering your home. Be wary when dealing with a plumber who will ask for the full amount upfront, as they may need the money to cover up any mistakes they do on the job or even disappear with your money. A professional plumbing company will give you an estimate about the materials they are going to use, how long they will take to fix the problem, and if any surprises surfaced, they will explain why it happened and any extra costs you may need to pay.

Responsive and Corrective

We all ask questions while the plumber is working to know what caused the problem, how to avoid it in the future, and other questions. A professional plumber will answer all these questions in a good manner. They also should explain these answers in non-technical terms for anyone to understand them. Everyone makes mistakes and professional plumbers will accept that they made mistakes, address, and correct them. If you feel that your plumbing system hasn’t been working as it used to and it turned out to be caused by misuse, the plumber should explain that to you and fix it without giving you an attitude.

 

Hiring the right professional plumber when in need can give you peace of mind knowing that your house is in safe hands. Don’t rush into hiring the first plumber you find, instead, take your time researching different plumbing companies, and see their credentials and experiences. Knowing what you will expect beforehand will allow you to better prepare for it. Ensure that the plumber you hired will be respectful of your time and house. They must come prepared for any kind of job and be communicative with you about any issues that may arise.

Reasons To Hire a Professional Plumber for Your Project

Reasons To Hire a Professional Plumber for Your Project

Pipe and plumbing problems in commercial buildings impact revenue. These are the best reasons to hire a professional plumber for your project.

Whether you run a restaurant or manage a property, you have pipes and water systems that need maintenance from time to time. While you can try the DIY approach, it is not always the best option. Here are the best reasons to hire a professional plumber for your project.

Save Time and Energy

First and foremost is the wasted time and energy on your end. A professional plumber has the training, credentials, and experience to handle problems quickly and plan a solution. Anyone handling the situation with an untrained eye will more than likely spend several hours researching their problem before acting. This educational back and forth will waste time and expend energy that you could spend on business-related items. If you want to keep plumbing problems from growing into monstrous headaches, you should use a professional plumber to give you peace of mind.

Receive Long-Term Support

When you address a plumbing issue yourself, you are responsible for following up and keeping tabs on it over time. Should your solution fail a week down the road, you will need to repair the plumbing again. Avoid these future risks with a professional plumbing service. A dedicated business will always be available to field your questions and help you problem-solve issues in the weeks to come.

Local and Available

Hiring a professional may sound like it involves extra work and scheduling people far in advance, but most plumbers are local and available. In fact, you can’t do much better than 24-hour local plumbers. These quick responders have the necessary tools and parts to finish a job or know how to acquire them. As a business manager, you know the importance of a quick fix, so utilize the fastest solution—a professional plumber.

There are many reasons to hire a professional plumber for your project, so make sure you have one on speed dial should a problem occur. Support other local businesses and handle your issues efficiently with a plumbing service. If you have any plumbing emergencies or maintenance needs, reach out to us at Bucks Plumbing today.

Benefits of Using Professional Plumbing Services

Professional Plumbing Services

The plumbing system is one of the most significant components of any building structure; it always extends throughout the structure, from the living room to the bedroom; from the kitchen to the bathrooms; and even to the foundations thus a minor issue in any of the part joined may cause severe plumbing problems and may require emergency plumbing repair.

When it comes to pipes, the drainage system is one of the most crucial components. This is the system that allows water to leave the house after it has been utilized. The majority of homes should have a gravity-powered drainage system built-in. As a result, the drainage system’s design will affect how well your plumbing system functions. Pipes in places like the bathroom, for example, should be constructed in such a way that water flows naturally and does not create an emergency that stuck you in between, leaving no option to hire a professional plumbing expert.

Plumbing Problems and Professional Plumbing Services

There are a few basic things you can do to keep your drain pipes from clogging up too quickly. The majority of plumbing problems begin in the kitchen or bathroom. They begin in the kitchen, where most individuals do not have garbage bags by their side when washing their dishes, causing obstructions by dumping too much residue into the sink. Hairpieces, tissues, and other everyday materials, on the other hand, lead to drainage system clogs in the bathroom.

Enlisting the services of a professional plumbing company that has extensive experience in general plumbing work and understands the specific plumbing system for your building is the best approach to maintain and repair your plumbing system.

When a drain is clogged, it’s critical that your plumber responds quickly to your call so that the problem may be fixed before it does further harm to the structure. Professional plumbing services employ cutting-edge technology to detect any drainage issues that may emerge. When finding clogs, some numbers can harm or cause more plumbing difficulties; therefore, this is critical. Professional plumbers will also make certain that the source of the obstruction is identified and treated, rather than simply treating the symptoms.

When dealing with a weather-related drainage obstruction, which can be caused by a large volume of water from storms and an accumulation of leaves, a professional plumbing service can make use of high-tech equipment that will allow them to handle the problem without causing further damage. Leaks in the building and unnecessary structural damage.

Another major advantage of using professional plumbing services rather than a free launcher is that they will be able to utilize genuine replacement components, which will provide you with peace of mind regarding the condition of your plumbing and drainage system.

Need Professional Plumbing Service in Florida?

If you are looking for professional plumbing services in Florida or any other region in USA, give us a quick call. We offer fast & reliable plumbing services in both residential and commercial premises. Our plumbing experts are all professional and equipped with professional tools to meet 24-hour plumbing repair service in Florida. Do not look further when we are only a step ahead from you. Fast & Reliable Plumbing Services is our first priority. Contact us now.

BENEFITS OF HIRING A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER

DIY Plumbing

Need a plumbing repair? Whether it is as simple as a clogged pipe, or as potentially complicated and sensitive as a sewer repair, you should consider hiring a professional plumber.  There are many advantages to hiring a plumber for repairs or new plumbing installations. Sarasota Plumbing  shares five:

1. Professional plumbers have the experience.

The journeymen Red Seal plumbers at Weizer Plumbing are trained, skilled and they have years of experience in this line of work. This allows them to easily understand and fix the problem immediately. Hiring an experienced plumber means they’ll take care of everything from materials, trouble-shooting, repairs and installation.

2. They have the right tools and supplies.

Licensed plumbers will have the tools and supplies required to ensure your new plumbing will be installed efficiently and correctly.  If there’s a major problem with your current plumbing system, they’ll know what to do and have what they need on hand to do it immediately, saving you the headache of a DIY plumbing attempt and multiple trips to the hardware store for tools and supplies.

3. Plumbers are familiar with plumbing & building codes.

Weizer Plumbing is familiar with plumbing and building codes, ensuring your repairs and new installations are in compliance with regulations.  Hiring an unlicensed handyman or attempting to do the job yourself could result in issues in major issues down the road. This might give you problems when trying to sell your home.

4. The pros are more efficient that do-it-yourselfers.

A plumber can create a plan for the entire job. Their expertise includes roughing in lines, fixtures and faucets of your bathroom or kitchen project.  Since they already have the right tools, supplies and expertise for the job, you can be sure they will complete it correctly and way more efficiently than someone trying to learn as they go. Do-it-youselfers could find themselves over their heads. You might end up spending more time and money in the end or worse, standing in a flooded basement in the midst of a plumbing emergency!

5. They are good are problem solvers.

The pros at Bucks Plumbing can easily trouble shoot and fix the issue, knowing what to do to prevent further issues in the future.  You can view a plumbing tutorial online, but that won’t account for “what to do if it all goes wrong”.  A an experienced plumber will avoid costly mistakes and if something goes wrong, they will know what to do.

Plumbers in Edmonton

Bucks Plumbing has one goal – to be the professional plumbers you or your business call on for your plumbing needs, year after year. Their journeymen Red Seal plumbers make sure that happens with prompt, efficient and expert service. Weizer Plumbing has a family-owned and family-first way of doing business. It’s another reason you’ll want to hire them. They understand urgency and will do the best job possible to impress you by getting it done right and on time.

The Most Common Reasons Why You Should Hire A Plumber

The Most Common Reasons Why You Should Hire A Plumber

It may not be necessary to hire a professional to handle every home repair. Some are relatively simple and can be handled on a do-it-yourself basis. However, plumbing problems are a special case. While they may seem simple on the surface, they are often among the most complicated home repair issues. Your amateur attempts may negatively affect the entire system. Here are some specific reasons why you should contact plumbing services in rather than trying to fix the problems yourself.

1. Keeping Water Clean

Some plumbing issues can contaminate the water that comes out of the faucet. The contamination is not always visible. You may take care of the problem you can see, but the water may still be dirty as a result. Hiring a plumber helps to ensure that the repair is complete and the water remains clean.

2. Making Sure Plumbing Codes Are Observed

You may not even be aware that governments at the local, state, and national levels impose codes on plumbing work. However, if your DIY repair is not up to code, it could affect the resale value of your home. Professional plumbers are familiar with these codes and will make sure the repair is compliant.

3. Saving Money

People usually undertake DIY repairs in the interest of saving money. However, trying to make your own plumbing repairs could end up costing you more in the long run. For example, if you do not repair a leak correctly, or miss it altogether as you are doing repairs, the loss of water due to the leak could significantly increase your water bill. Not only that, but a botched DIY repair could lead to even bigger plumbing issues that you have no choice but to hire a professional to handle.

4. Getting the Latest Equipment

Like most other forms of technology, plumbing equipment has seen significant advancements over the past few decades. Plumbers are early adopters of the most advanced equipment, which means faster repairs.

5. Ensuring Safety

Attempting to perform your own plumbing repairs could expose you to safety risks. Scalding hot water coming in contact with your skin or attempts to lift and carry heavy pipes could result in an injury. Another safety hazard associated with plumbing repairs is the force of the water, which you may not be able to control. You can avoid such hazards entirely when you hire a professional plumber, who is trained to manage these risks effectively.

6. Protecting Your Property

Because plumbing problems are complicated, you may inadvertently put your property at risk for further damage when you attempt the repair yourself. Professional plumbers are trained to avoid accidental damage to your property, and if something does go wrong, they will acknowledge it and make it right. On the other hand, if you inadvertently cause damage to your property while attempting plumbing repairs, it is entirely your responsibility.

7. Keeping Clean

Plumbing can be a messy job, especially if it involves raw sewage or old pipes. You may think that you can handle it, but you may underestimate how messy the job will become. Professional plumbers have no qualms about the mess, and once the job is complete, they will clean up afterward so that you do not have to deal with it at all.

Why You Should Choose plumbing service is Bucks Plumbing ?

Our professionals are prepared to handle all plumbing jobs. Whether the job is large or small, we will ensure the highest quality. We take pride in being helpful, friendly, and providing amazing customer service. Plumbing is one service that we provide, but whatever job you need to be done around the home, we can handle it for you. Check out all the repair and remodeling services we provide.

 

How to Find a Good Plumber

hands fixing plumbing

Whether you are a frequent DIY-er or prefer the hands-off approach, at some point, every homeowner will need to hire a professional to handle or assist with repairs. For many of us, that time comes when a plumbing issue arises. The plumbing system in your home is complex. If it is not working properly, you risk being without clean water or creating water damage issues. Having a great plumber on call is essential. So let’s talk about where to find one, and what questions to ask when you do.

First Things First

What kind of plumber do you need? Not all plumbers are created equal—many specialize in a specific type of project. Some base their business on service calls (think snaking a drain or unclogging a toilet) while others prefer to install new plumbing as you would need in a remodeling job. In almost every state, plumbers require a specialty license and have different designations based on their amount of experience. Master plumbers and journeyman plumbers have the most experience. It is most common for master plumbers to own the business, while journeymen typically work in the business. Make sure to look for the right type of plumber for your project.

What Do Good Plumbers Have in Common?

While plumbers vary by specialty and experience, most good tradespeople do have a few things in common.

License and Insurance

Being properly licensed and insured protects both the homeowner and the plumber’s business. A plumber who is serious about the longevity of their business will make sure to operate only while properly licensed and fully insured. Ask for insurance certificates, and call the agency to verify that the policies are enforced. Your state website will have information on whether your potential plumber is licensed.

Warranty

Good tradespeople take pride in their work and will stand behind it. Your plumber should be familiar with what the manufacturer warranty is on anything they install and should back it up with an additional workmanship warranty. The workmanship warranty will vary by project.

References

Ask your potential plumber for references from recent projects. Of course, they will be giving you the names of customers who adore them, but you should still call. Ask these questions: What kind of project did plumber X do for you? Did the company communicate as expected? Would you hire plumber X again? The answers to those questions will give you a great idea if you are working with a professional company that values your business.

Association or Community Involvement

This is often overlooked but vital. Small businesses need the support of their communities to survive for the long haul. Look for companies that are members of trade associations, such as the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association), or the ICC (International Code Council), or Community groups such as your local BBB or Chambers of Commerce, sponsoring school events, little league teams and community fundraisers are also a great sign. When a business invests in the community, they are more likely to have earned their reputation through hard work, rather than purchasing it through slick advertising.

Soft Skills

Were they polite on the phone and in person? Did they respect your home, take off their shoes, park in the proper place? If they take the time to pay attention to the little details in your initial interactions, you can bet that will carry through the work you hire them to do.

Best Places to Look

Everything you could possibly need is just a quick internet search away, right? But the companies who show up on top aren’t always the best—they are just savvy digital marketers. A company can certainly be great a digital marketing and at plumbing.

The very best way to find a good plumber is to get a personal referral from family and friends that you trust. Almost as good is a neighborhood Facebook page or Nextdoor group. Online referral sources such as HomeAdvisor can also be valuable, just remember you will need to verify their vetting process and use a little more caution. Finally, print ads or TV ads can certainly make you aware of a company, but a big advertising budget isn’t always a sign of quality, and those ad dollars have to come from somewhere, so the pricing is most likely a bit higher than a contractor whose business comes only from word of mouth referrals.

The Right Plumber for the Job

You’ve combed through all of the sources, and are ready to call a few plumbers about your project. It’s on you to be prepared and to decide what is important to you! It is not necessary to call on nine to 10 companies—pick two to four that you feel meet your requirements, If you are disappointed after the first round of calls, then repeat with two to four more.

Ask every plumber the same set of questions and compare their answers before making a decision. You add your own, but here are a few to get you started:

  • Do you specialize in service or installation?
  • Have you done this type of project before?
  • Will you guarantee the work?
  • Does this require a permit?
  • What Associations or Community Groups do you participate in?
  • How long will this project take (approximately)?
  • Will I be notified if the project will take longer or cost more?

Communication

When you find a good plumber, communication is still key to a successful project. Do your best to clearly communicate expectations, budget, modifications, and concerns before, during, and after the project. Every project has a potential for surprises or mistakes, proper communication will help your project be as smooth as it can be.