What you Should Know About Choosing a Plumber

Your home’s plumbing system is a complex network of pipes and fixtures that work together to provide clean water and safe disposal of wastes. The professionals that work on it are regulated, licensed and credentialed to ensure proper workmanship. How can you ensure that you hire a plumber that will do the job safely, properly and affordably? How can you find a professional that you can rely upon in an emergency? The following are some tips for hiring a plumber qualified to handle minor and major issues.

• Do some research: Approach neighbours, friends and relatives for recommendations. Ask them about the timeliness, cleanliness, affordability and professionalism of plumbing companies they have utilized. Talk to local property agents and building contractors and ask for referrals. Check online reviews and customer feedback on the services that plumbers have provided. The best companies grow through referrals. Don’t rush into hiring someone. Take the time to carefully consider candidates.
• Check licensing and qualifications: In Alberta, all plumbers must have a certificate of qualification. Ask to see the credentials of all candidates. Get the plumber’s license number during the interview.
• Consider experience: To ensure that all members of the crew have the appropriate experience to handle your project, ask how much experience the plumber(s) have and how long they have been in business.
• Note the level of professionalism: Observe how they dress, how they communicate, the level of organization in scheduling and invoicing and their timeliness. Do they inform you of any necessary changes?
• Inquire about insurance: Evaluate only candidates who can deliver proof of insurance. This protects you in case something goes wrong during the job, someone is injured and/or if there are any damages to your home.
• Get estimates: Most plumbers charge an hourly fee for work completed though some charge a flat fee for specific kinds of jobs. Reputable companies offer free, upfront quotes for fixing your plumbing problems. Get a detailed estimate from several plumbers and compare the hourly rates, any additional labour expenses, cost of materials required, and the timeframe for completing the work. Clarify the estimates you receive to avoid unwelcome surprises. Compare estimates to get the best person for the job and the most competitive pricing.
• Ask about a guarantee: Reputable companies offer warranties/guarantees for 30 to 90 days on their labour and the quality of services. A good plumber offers to fix a problem that results from his error.
• Ask for a list of customer references: Have prospective companies provide you with the names and contact information of previous customers who are willing to speak to the company’s qualifications and professionalism. Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the company is in good standing with the organization and that no complaints have been filed against them.
• Check the services provided: If you’re looking for a plumber who offers a particular service (water pressure assessment, drain treatment, etc.), make sure the services provided by your prospective plumber suit your needs. Inquire if the company has 24/7 emergency services.
• Hire a local plumber: A local plumbing company will be close enough to respond quickly to an emergency, easy to contact, simple to communicate with and often care more about how they handle your plumbing issue(s). Establish a relationship with a locally owned plumbing business and you’ll receive the best treatment and service for your dollar.

Plumbing problems often occur when you least expect them! Be prepared. Check out the qualifications, experience, professionalism, guarantees and references of several local plumbing companies. Find the one that best suits your needs.

Looking for a great plumbing company? Call Calgary based Plumbing Paramedics. Our plumbing technicians are friendly, informative and accommodating. Plumbing Paramedics hires only those we would trust in our own homes! Our certified plumbers can handle any plumbing task or problem!