Homeownership is on the rise in the United States with more than 67.9 percent of households owning their homes rather than renting. If you’re new to homeownership, you’ll quickly find out that maintenance issues and repairs happen all the time.
When they do, you need to be ready. That means knowing how to find a plumber, fast.
Choosing a plumber that you can trust is much easier than you think. You just need to know where to start. Here are a few proven steps to help you figure out how to find a good plumber that you can rely on for years to come.
Ask the People You Know First
The best way to find a plumber you can trust to do a good job is to speak with the people you know. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations and see if they have a contractor they can recommend.
They’ll only share the names they’ve worked with in the past. This can save you time on your search.
Make Sure They’re Licensed and Insured
According to the experts at Ben Franklin Plumbing, the most important thing you can do when you hire a plumber is to make sure they’re licensed and fully insured. All reputable plumbing contractors have an active license with your local government. This shows that they’re aware of current building codes and have the training necessary to stick to those codes.
They should also have valid liability and workers’ compensation insurance in place before they start working on your property. Otherwise, you could be liable for the cost of any damage they do to your property as well as any injuries they receive while working on your plumbing.
Don’t hesitate to ask for proof of their license number and insurance before you hire them. The best contractors will happily provide these to you.
Understand Their Rates
Before you sign a contract and let them start making repairs, find out how each plumber will charge you for their services. Some charge a flat rate for different tasks. Others charge you for the parts they use and assess an hourly labor charge.
If possible, get a written estimate from each plumber you speak with before you schedule the repair appointment. Compare the types of work they’ll do and the amount they’ll charge for their services.
Keep in mind that you may not want to work with the cheapest contractor. Instead, choose the expert that offers the right balance of quality and affordability.
Choosing a Plumber You Trust Is Simple
Figuring out how to hire a plumber before you need one is the best way to make sure you’re able to handle unexpected repairs quickly. These simple steps make choosing a plumber you can trust simple and fast. Follow them yourself and you’ll be able to find a great plumbing contractor in no time.
Dealing with plumbing emergencies is just one part of being a responsible homeowner. Check out our blog for more tips and tricks to help you maintain your home for years to come.
