If you have a plumbing emergency, or even if you just need to get some plumbing done, it can be a confusing task to find and hire a good plumber so that you don’t get overcharged or under-serviced.

1. Are the Needed Services Provided?

Like any type of tradesperson or repairman, you will want to double-check to ensure that the plumber you are thinking of hiring will have all the right tools and be able to perform the necessary actions in order to resolve the issue(s) you are having. If not, you will, unfortunately, be wasting both your time and money to have the plumber come out only to tell you that they lack the necessary skills or equipment.

2. Are References Readily Available?

You should check to make sure that the plumber is able to provide references when considering hiring them. You should be wary if they are unable to, as it usually means that their work is not what it should be, and you don't want to pay for something that isn't done correctly.

3. Is the Plumber Licensed and Certified?

One of the most important on the list, you will want to make sure that any plumber that you hire has a license and certification. This will ensure that you are receiving the quality of work that you would expect.

It is frequent that a plumber gets so wrapped up in their work that they forget to take the time to show you their license, and this is important because the work will not be guaranteed unless it is completed by a licensed plumber. If they are unable to show you a copy of their current license or do not possess one, then it is time to move on to the next candidate.

4. Are They able to Diagnose the Problem Correctly?

While some plumbing issues are easy to fix, others are far more complex. You will want to make sure that you are describing the issue you notice fully, explain what is occurring, and ask if this sounds like something they have repaired in the past.

If not, or if they seem to be uncertain about what the underlying issue may be, then you should look elsewhere for a plumber that will be able to fix your issues adequately.

5. Does the Plumber Have Public Liability Insurance?

The law does require that a plumber have current public liability insurance prior to any services performed. You will want to make sure that the plumber you are considering hiring has this insurance, as it protects both you as the customer and the plumber as well.

6. Does the Cost Fit in Your Budget?

Depending on the size of your plumbing issue and what tools or parts are required, the cost can be quite high. It is not uncommon for these costs to be higher than what you have budgeted, and that is why it is important to have an accurate estimate before any work has begun.

This will let you know for sure if the cost is within your budget, or if you need to look for a plumber that can perform the work for a lower cost.

7. Did you Shop Around for Estimates?

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if the estimate you receive from a plumber is too high or in the correct range. That is why it is a good idea to receive multiple estimates from different plumbers in order to decide on which one fits in your budget the best.

Sometimes the extra money spent would be worth it, while at times it is simply unreasonably high. It would be wise to find out what materials are needed, as well as the time frame for the job and if there are any special tools or materials needed.

8. Do They Guarantee Their Work?

You will want to double-check with the plumber that their work is guaranteed and what is included; this can anything as relates to the work, the parts, and materials.

This protects your investment, as if something is to happen within the timeframe that they guarantee their work, they are obligated to come out and fix it without costing you any extra money. Additionally, make sure that you receive this guaranteed in writing.

9. What Materials are Needed?

Before you settle on a plumber and hire them for any type of work, it would be wise to find out what materials are needed to repair or replace the plumbing. They will need to have access to these materials, and extra parts not included in the estimate can raise the price for the project.

10. Payment Methods

In today's world, there are various ways to pay someone for a service or product, and it would be a good idea to find out ahead of time what method they prefer, and what methods they do not accept.

Summing up

Though plumbing is not a complicated process you still want to make sure that you hire a good plumber. This will make sure that your plumbing is done correctly and you minimise the risk of future plumbing issues occuring.