When plumbing issues arise, such as a burst pipe, clogged drain or water heater malfunction, having a good plumber on speed dial is essential. Homeowners should make sure to research local plumbing companies before hiring one. Choosing a local plumber can help reduce costs and provide better customer service. Read on to learn more about why it’s best to hire a local plumber and what questions homeowners should ask before hiring one.
The first step to finding a quality local plumber is getting recommendations from family and friends. Word of mouth is the most reliable way to find a plumber, and it can also be the best way to avoid being overcharged by unscrupulous plumbing companies. The next step is to look at online reviews. Online reviews can be a great way to compare prices and quality of work. However, it’s important to note that just because a company has a lot of online reviews doesn’t mean they are trustworthy.
Lastly, it’s important to get multiple bids before hiring a plumber. When requesting bids, homeowners should provide a detailed description of the problem and request an estimate of how long the job will take. They should also inquire about any hidden fees or charges, such as travel time and materials costs. In addition, they should ask how the plumber computes their labor rate (hourly or flat rate) and what their minimum charge is. It’s also a good idea to request an on-duty plumber, as they may be able to attend to your issue sooner.