There’s certainly no shortage of plumbers in town who can make all sorts of repairs at your home or office. However, even though they may offer similar services, all of these plumbers aren’t created equal. Some are much better at their jobs than others, and some plumbers are just con artists looking to make a quick buck off an unwitting homeowner.
Luckily, there are a few quick questions you can ask to determine whether you’re talking to a reputable plumber in Raleigh, NC, or someone who’s just trying to take advantage of you. Continue reading to learn a few of those essential questions you need to ask.
Are you licensed?
First things first, make sure the plumber is fully licensed to do plumbing work in North Carolina. Having a license is a sign that the plumber has passed the necessary tests and is qualified to perform all sorts of plumbing jobs. It’s a good idea to ask to see proof that he has a license, instead of simply taking his word for it.
Do you have insurance?
Always work with an insured plumber! Insurance covers them in case something goes wrong at a job site. For example, if a plumber accidentally causes flooding in your home, his insurance will pay for the damages. If he’s uninsured, however, you’re on the hook for those extra costs.
Can I contact your references?
Any good plumber in Raleigh, NC should have a long list of former clients that would put in a good word for him. If the plumber you’re talking to either won’t provide a list of references or doesn’t have any to give you, it’s a good idea to tell him, “Thanks, but no thanks!” If he doesn’t have any references to give, you might also want to consider reading reviews online to see what former clients are saying about him.
What’s the estimated cost?
Obviously, you should always get an estimate before you agree to hire a plumber. Keep in mind that the quote is an estimate of what the total cost will be, and that costs can (and often will) vary depending on how the repair goes. However, an experienced plumber should be able to give you a quote that’s fairly close to the actual price.
Is the rate hourly or fixed?
Going along with the point above, find out whether the plumber charges an hourly rate for the repairs, or if there’s a fixed cost associated with your specific job. Clarifying this beforehand can avoid an unpleasant surprise once the plumber is finished with the repair.
Who will be doing the work?
Will the plumber be handling the repair by himself, or does he plan on hiring subcontractors to work on your pipes? If he plans on bringing in someone else, make sure that they’re just as qualified as the plumber you initially spoke to.
If you’re ready to hire a plumber, look no further than Affordable Plumbing Call Us 1st, Inc. Give us a call today to find out why we’re the premier plumber in Raleigh, NC!