From a dripping faucet to a flooded basement, homeowners need the help of plumber service repair companies for all different reasons. One quick look in the Yellow Pages can bring up dozens of results. How do homeowners choose the right companies for their jobs, and how do they know that the company they’re choosing will get the work done on time?
Learn about how to choose the best plumber service repair company for a specific job, and which questions to ask when meeting with a plumber for the first time.
How Can I Find a Plumber That’s Qualified?
Plumbing issues usually need to be resolved quickly, but when you’re in a pinch, it can be challenging to find a plumber with enough experience for the job and the availability to start right away. While it might be tempting to open the Yellow Pages and start calling every plumber with a listing, that strategy often yields less-than-stellar results.
Instead, start by asking friends and family members which plumbing companies they have worked with in the past. This strategy can lead you to a company with a good reputation.
Another place to search for qualified plumbers is on online review websites and vetted directories. While it’s not uncommon for most businesses to have a few negative reviews, a series of negative reviews is usually a bad sign. Search for reviews that mention that specific project or problem you’re looking to have fixed—for example, a clogged drain or a leaky bathtub—to get a better idea of whether a plumber has the right experience.
Other resources for finding qualified plumbing companies include the Better Business Bureau, state licensing agencies, and trade unions.
Questions to Ask When Hiring a Plumber Service Repair Company
Before agreeing to hire a plumber, make sure to ask about experience and references. A legitimate plumbing company should have no problem handing over a list of a half dozen or more satisfied clients.
Some other questions to ask plumbers during the initial phone call include:
- Do you have experience with this type of project?
- What is your rating with the Better Business Bureau?
- What is your hourly rate?
- Do you have any warranties or workmanship guarantees?
- Can you provide me with a list of references?
- Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
What Types of Services Do Plumbers Handle?
Full-service plumbing companies can handle a wide variety of projects, from line breaks and system failures, to basic drain cleanings.
The most common reasons why homeowners call plumbers are:
- Sump pump repairs
- Water services
- Installations
- Camera scope drain lines
- Gas lines
- Drain cleaning
- Hot water heater repairs
Should Plumbers Be Licensed?
Legitimate plumber service repair companies are licensed by city or state agencies. To find out if a particular company is licensed, ask to see the business’ license or visit the state licensing board’s website and search for the company by name.
In order to be licensed, master plumbers are required to have passed certain exams and they must complete continuing education courses each year. This education ensures that the plumber is aware of the latest trends and issues, and it gives homeowners an added sense of assurance that the plumber they have hired is capable of handling the job.
Also consider asking whether the company is insured. Insurance and bonding are required by most state licensing agencies, but it is still worth asking for proof of insurance before allowing any plumber to work in your home.
As one of the top plumber service repair companies in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, Air Technical Services is available 24/7 to handle a wide variety of plumbing issues, from basic drain cleaning to complex gas line repairs. Call our skilled plumbing specialists at 609-494-1400 or schedule an appointment for an on-site estimate.
Air Technical Services: Trusted Specialists in LBI
As the most trusted heating, cooling, and plumbing specialists in LBI, Air Technical Services has worked with homeowners for more than two decades. Let us put our installation, maintenance, and repair experience to work for you.