Top 10 Questions to Ask a Plumber

When you encounter issues with plumbing systems or your water supply at home – particularly in an emergency – it’s essential that you call a reliable and trustworthy plumber.

You might even be tempted to hire the first plumber you find online. Don’t jump too quickly. With so many plumbing services available in the market, it can be challenging to identify the best one for your particular plumbing problems. What you need is a guide to hiring the right plumbing service for you.

To help you make an informed choice, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 questions that customers should ask a plumber before making the hiring decision. By asking these pertinent plumbing questions, you’ll be able to assess their qualifications, experience and reliability to ensure you employ the very best plumbing service.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

The first and most important question to ask a plumber is whether they are licensed and insured.

A licensed plumber has undergone the necessary training and passed the required exams to provide a range of plumbing services. It also means they know and understand the relevant laws and regulations that apply to plumbing work. Whether it’s replacing a tankless water heater or dealing with the scourge of invasive tree roots in your pipes, you want assurance that they’re up to the task.

Plumbers need to have liability insurance that covers any damages, errors or injuries that may occur during the assignment. That insurance will protect both you and the technician doing the job.

2. How Experienced Are You As a Plumber?

Experience is a critical factor to consider when hiring a plumber. Ask the plumber how long they have been in the industry and what type of plumbing work they have specialised in. Some may have more experience dealing with plumbing problems in a commercial setting rather than a residential property, so may not be the best fit for your particular needs.

A plumber with a proven track record of success is more likely to provide high-quality services than an inexperienced one. An experienced plumber will also have several strong references to vouch for the quality of their work.

3. What Plumbing Job Services Do You Offer?

Plumbers specialise in different areas of plumbing, such as residential or commercial plumbing, installations, repair, maintenance, gas fitting or roof plumbing.

Many plumbers are versatile and can perform a range of services or, in many cases, can recommend a colleague who specialises in the specific service you require. Always ensure that the plumber you’re hiring offers the type of service you need.

4. Is Your Quote the Total Cost of Services?

When you’ve got a major repair job or installation that needs doing, you’ll want an accurate quote of what it’s going to cost. The last thing you want is a project that drags on and a budget that blows out.

The plumber will need to assess the plumbing job onsite to give an accurate estimate. Just be sure that the quote includes labour and materials. This naturally leads to the next question to ask a plumber.

5. What is Your Pricing Structure?

It’s important to know what your plumber’s pricing structure is. A reliable plumber should be transparent about their pricing and provide you with a detailed quote for the job.

The last thing you want to find out when you get a plumber in to fix a leak or an issue with the water main is that they charge by the hour rather than a flat rate. Some jobs will take longer than others because there are unknown factors involved. That’s why it’s always best to get a fixed-price quote before work starts, if possible. Beware of plumbers who offer vague estimates or charge hidden fees.

6. Do You Offer Emergency Services For Plumbing Problems?

Keep in mind that plumbing problems can occur at any time and often without warning. After all, a faulty pipe doesn’t pick a convenient time to burst. And the last thing you want early in the morning before work is to find the shower not working at all. Therefore, it is essential to have a plumber on speed dial that provides 24/7 emergency services.

Ask the plumber what hours they are available and how soon they can attend in an emergency situation. If you’re speaking to a plumber because you currently have urgent work that needs attention, you’ll want an answer to the following question.

7. When Are You Available to Do the Work?

This is an obvious query but one that will give you an idea of how reliable the plumber is. You will want to ensure that the plumber is available to provide services when you need them.

You’ll need to know when the job will likely start and finish so your household can get back to normal.

8. Do You Guarantee Your Work?

A reputable plumber should offer a guarantee for their work. Ask the plumber if they provide a warranty for their services and what exactly it covers.

Ideally, any kind of guarantee will be for a reasonable amount of time and should cover labour and materials.

9. Do You Use High-Quality Materials?

The quality of materials a plumber uses can affect the durability and longevity of the work. Make sure you ask the plumber about the type and quality of materials they use.  Also ask whether they offer any warranties for these materials.

Be sure to ask if the plumber has access not only to the best materials but also the best brands on the market. If you need to replace a hot water system that you’ve been pleased with, you may want to access a new model of the same brand. When it comes to appliances, your plumber should be able to source a range of name brands.

10. How Do You Handle the Clean-up?

Plumbing is often a messy business. Anyone who has dealt with a malfunctioning hot water system or a blocked toilet knows that.

So, you’re going to want to know just how neat and tidy your plumber is. After completing a repair job or installation, the plumber should always clean up the work area and dispose of any waste materials.

Ask the plumber about their clean-up process.  Make sure that they will leave your premises in a clean and tidy condition.

In Conclusion

Hiring a reliable and trustworthy plumber is essential to ensure that they meet your plumbing needs promptly and efficiently. By asking the 10 questions, you can identify the best plumbing service provider for your needs and ensure that you receive high-quality services.

Keep in mind that when asking these questions, plumbers are trained to expect such inquiries – just try to keep it friendly. Then you can relax knowing that you’ve done your due diligence and your plumbing is in the hands of someone you can trust.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.